Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is an extremely common symptom, especially in women. Discomfort within the lower abdomen and pelvic region could be a result of an abnormality or illness relating to a variety of key bodily systems and functions.

Most often, this type of pain is typically related to the reproductive system, digestive, urinary system, or the musculoskeletal system.

What Activities May Worsen Pelvic Pain?

Generally, pelvic pain is described to either be a dull yet constant pain, or a sudden, sharp pain. If the pain is consistently present over a long period of time, it is classified as chronic pelvic pain. If the opposite is true, then the patient is likely to suffer from acute pelvic pain.

Most individuals will notice that their pelvic pain becomes more intense as they engage in certain activities. For example, if the source of your pelvic pain is your digestive system, then you may experience more pain after consuming certain foods or drinks. It is also common for pelvic pain to worsen during sexual intercourse or while urinating.

Potential Causes of Pelvic Pain

Reproductive System

The reproductive system is a common culprit to pelvic pain, particularly for women. Conditions of this system that can trigger pelvic pain include, but are not limited to:

  • Endometriosis

  • Menstrual cramping

  • Uterine fibroids

  • Adenomyosis

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

  • Pregnancy complications

  • Mittelschmerz

  • Ovarian disorders such as the presence of potentially cancerous cysts

  • Vulvodynia

  • Pelvic congestion syndrome

Urinary System

Another likely source to pelvic pain, a person’s urinary system can encounter several different conditions or abnormalities, such as:

  • Urinary tract infection

  • Interstitial cystitis

  • Kidney stones

Musculoskeletal System

It is also possible for pelvic pain to be a result of a deformity or injury to muscles, tendons, or ligaments located around the pelvis. This can often be a result of situations like:

  • Levator syndrome (recurring spasms of the levator ani muscle)

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Loss of control or strength in the pelvic floor muscles