Pelvic pain is a common symptom that most women will experience at least once during their lives, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The nonspecific nature of pelvic pain can make it difficult for your doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms. If you develop chronic pelvic pain that becomes progressively worse or interferes with your ability to participate in your usual activities, seek medical care as soon as possible. There are many causes of pelvic pain in women.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is caused by an infection of the female reproductive organs (uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes). This infection is typically caused by a sexually transmitted disease (gonorrhea or chlamydia), but can also occur due to cervical insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD). The predominant symptoms associated with PID include pelvic pain, cervical discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding or fever. If left untreated, PID can decrease your chances of becoming pregnant and can cause infertility.
Ovarian Cysts
An ovarian cyst is an abnormal fluid-filled sac that develops on the ovaries. Typically, an ovarian cyst will resolve on its own during the normal monthly menstrual cycle. In some women, an ovarian cyst can persist, causing symptoms of pelvic pain or heaviness. If you develop a large ovarian cyst that does not resolve within a few months, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the enlarged sac.
Ectopic Pregnancy
A fetus that begins to grow outside of the uterus---typically in a fallopian tube---is referred to as an ectopic pregnancy. This life-threatening condition can cause symptoms of severe pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding and requires immediate medical attention.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a female medical condition that occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrium) begins to abnormally grow outside of the uterus. Women with this condition often experience symptoms of severe pelvic pain and cramping, which is most notable during the menstrual period.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you can experience persistent pelvic pain. IBS---the cause of which is unknown---is characterized by recurrent diarrhea, constipation, nausea or pelvic pain.
Interstitial Cystitis
Interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder syndrome, causes painful symptoms within the tissues of the bladder. The cause of this condition is unknown and there is currently no cure. Women with interstitial cystitis often experience urinary frequency or urgency as well as significant pelvic pain.
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a medical condition caused by significant inflammation within the diverticulum, a small, pouch-like sac within the wall of the large intestine. Symptoms of diverticulitis include pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.
Fibromyalgia
If you have fibromyalgia, you can experience recurrent pelvic pain. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects connective tissues within the body, including tendons and muscles. Its painful symptoms can also lead to fatigue, headache, insomnia, anxiety and depression, especially in women with fibromyalgia.
