5 Gynecological Conditions That Can Cause Pelvic Pain in Women

Pelvic pain is a common issue for many women all over the world. In most cases, it can occur during periods or ovulation. If this pain is not severe, it can be left untreated.

However, there are certain gynecological disorders that can cause severe and/or prolonged pelvic pain. These conditions should be discussed and treated by a gynecologist. Here is a list of five gynecological conditions that can cause pelvic pain in women.

1. Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue comparable to the endometrium, or tissue that lines the interior of the uterus, develops outside of the womb. In the United States, around 11% of girls aged 15 to 44 years are affected by the disease. Endometriosis can cause chronic, long-lasting pelvic discomfort in certain women. When a woman's menstruation begins, the tissue outside of the uterus responds to hormonal changes, which can result in pelvic bleeding and inflammation.

Some people may feel moderate to severe discomfort. Some women may find it difficult to become pregnant if they have endometriosis. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, doctors may offer a variety of treatment options for endometriosis.

2. Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are the most common noncancerous tumor in the female reproductive tract. By the age of 45, around 70% of women have at least one fibroid. What causes fibroids to develop in the uterus is unclear. High estrogen and maybe progesterone (female hormones) levels appear to accelerate their development.

Many fibroids are so little that they do not produce any symptoms. But the bigger the fibroid, the more likely it is to trigger symptoms. Fibroids, especially those right under the lining, frequently cause the menstrual flow to be heavier or last longer than it should. Large fibroids can cause pelvic pain, pressure, or heaviness during or after menstruation.

3. Ovarian cysts
Cysts in the ovary generally don't show any severe symptoms. You may experience a dull or intense ache on one side of your pelvis or abdomen if they are large. You may also experience bloating or a feeling of heaviness in your lower belly.

If the cyst ruptures, you may experience sudden, intense pain. Ovarian cysts often disappear on their own, however, if you experience pain you should seek medical attention. Your doctor may consider removing a big cyst to prevent rupture.

4. Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy develops when an embryo implants and grows outside the uterus. Ectopic pregnancy affects about 1% of women aged 24-44. According to statistics, Black women had a significantly higher risk of ectopic pregnancies than white women.

A woman with ectopic pregnancy may experience severe discomfort and cramping in their pelvis, which is generally localized on one side. Dizziness, nausea, and vaginal bleeding are further symptoms. Anyone who suspects an ectopic pregnancy should seek urgent medical assistance, as this is a life-threatening condition.

5. Pelvic inflammatory disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a uterine infection. PID can develop if bacteria from the cervix or vagina get inside the uterus. This condition affects roughly 2.5 million women in the United States. PID is typically a consequence of an untreated STI, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Females may suffer various symptoms associated with pelvic discomfort, including abnormal vaginal discharge and bleeding.

The disease might raise a woman's chances of becoming infertile. One in eight women who have PID has difficulty getting pregnant. Treatment for PID often involves taking antibiotics to treat the infection. However, they can't cure scarring, therefore early therapy is essential. Scarring usually occurs within the pelvic organs as a result of recurring or untreated infections.