The pain may be constant, or it may come and go.
It can also include other symptoms, such asabnormal vaginal bleedingand lower back pain.
Because pelvic pain can have so many causes, treatments vary.
Verywell / Alexandra Gordon
Both men and women can experience pelvic pain related to the urinary or gastrointestinal tracts.
This article discusses pelvic pain in men and women.
It explores possible causes of pelvic pain and symptoms that help differentiate between pelvic conditions.
It also explains potential treatments for pelvic pain and when to seek urgent medical care.
Verywell / Alexandra Gordon
Where Is Pelvic Pain Located?
Pelvic pain is located in the lower torso.
This structure supports the bladder, rectum, descending colon, and reproductive organs.
Problems with any of these organs or muscles can result in pelvic pain.
Causes in All Sexes
Some causes of pelvic pain can occur regardless of sex.
Structures that are common to both men and women can be a source of pelvic pain.
Some common causes are listed below.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndromeis afunctional gastrointestinal disorder.
There are many different kinds of STIs, and symptoms vary depending on the specific infection.
It requires immediate medical attention.
Signs of appendicitis include:
Cystitis
Cystitisis the urinary bladder inflammation usually resulting from an infection.
This is sometimes called a bladder infection.
Other symptoms may include:
If the fallopian tube ruptures, it can be a life-threatening emergency.
A ruptured ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical care.
Pregnancy
Mild pelvic and lower back pain and cramping are normal in a healthy pregnancy.
More severe pelvic pain, known as pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain, occurs in one-quarter to two-thirds of pregnancies.
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain typically begins in the second or third trimester.
The pain is due to a combination of weight gain and hormones.
Types of pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy includesymphysis pubis dysfunctionor round ligament pain.
It is typically due to sexually transmitted infections likegonorrheaorchlamydia.
Pelvic pain may worsen during sex.
If anabscess(an infected lump) develops, severe pelvic pain and fever may result.
While the general symptoms may be similar, the various types do have some key differences.
These include:
Recap
Pelvic pain in women is often connected to the reproductive system.
Some causes of pelvic pain are uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and cancer.
Pelvic Pain in Males
Pelvic pain in men is also related to their anatomy and reproductive organs.
Some common causes of pain are discussed below.
Prostatitis
Prostatitisis inflammation of the prostate gland.
Once irritated, the prostate swells.
It is more common as men get older.
Sometimes, people develop chronic pain after a vasectomy, calledpost-vasectomy pain syndrome.
Symptoms may include:
Pelvic pain can be brought on by almost any organ in the abdomen.
Anyone can experience pelvic pain due to appendicitis, urinary tract infections, or muscular conditions.
Reproductive organs can also be a source of pain.
Appendicitis and ectopic pregnancy are some life-threatening emergencies that may require immediate surgery.
Many causes of pelvic pain can become serious over time if left untreated.
Conditions because of bacterial infection, such as UTIs and certain STIs, can be treated with antibiotics.
Other conditions, such as cancer or fibroids, may be treated with medication, surgery, or both.
Conditions such as appendicitis and ectopic pregnancy require emergency surgery.
This is why its important to see your healthcare provider if you have unresolved pelvic pain of any kind.
There are things you’re able to also do at home to help relieve chronic pelvic pain.
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil (ibuprofen) can help reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Heating pads can be effective at relieving pain as well.
A Word From Verywell
Pelvic pain can be due to a variety of causes.
Work with your healthcare team to determine what is causing your pain and how it can best be treated.
If you are experiencing pelvic pain with no known cause, call your healthcare provider.
If your pain is sudden or severe, you should go to the emergency room.
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