Pelvic pain affects the lowest part of the abdomen, between the belly button and groin.
For women, pelvic pain may be a sign of menstrual cramps, ovulation, or gastrointestinal issues such as food intolerances.
In some cases, it can also develop due to a more severe problem. Pelvic pain can be linked to other disorders, such as endometriosis or vulvodynia. Sometimes chronic pelvic pain may be misdiagnosed as another condition.
Sometimes, persistent pelvic pain is an indicator of an infection or issue with the reproductive system or other organs in the area.
How Many Women Experience Pelvic Pain?
Approximately 15% of women of childbearing age in the United States reported having pelvic pain that lasted at least 6 months. Worldwide, the rates of chronic pelvic pain for women of childbearing age range from 14% to 32%.
Between 13% and 32% of these women have pain that is severe enough to cause them to miss work or to have reduced sexual function.
What are the common symptoms linked to Pelvic Pain?
When asked to locate the pain, many women describe your chronic pelvic pain in one or more of the following ways:
- Severe and steady pain
- Pain that comes and goes (intermittent)
- Dull aching
- Sharp pains or cramping
- Pressure or heaviness deep within your pelvis
Also, some women may experience:
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain while having a bowel movement or urinating
- Pain when you sit for long periods
Your discomfort may intensify after standing for long periods and may be relieved when you lie down. The pain may be mild and annoying, or it may be so severe that you cannot work, sleep, or exercise.
The Most Common Treatments for Pelvic Pain
1) Pain Relievers
Taking Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a great first step for pelvic pain relief. As always use caution, but they can help to reduce the swelling that can lead to chronic pelvic pain.
2) Increased Movement
It might be hard to think about exercise when experiencing pain, but it can help. This is because exercise increases blood flow. On top of this, during physical activity, the body releases endorphins which can act as the body’s natural painkillers. Just 30 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise like brisk walking several days a week can help to relieve your pelvic pain.
3) Hot Water
Heat can help to increase blood flow, which may help reduce pelvic pain. Relaxing in a shower or bath full of warm water can provide relief during flare-ups. Another option is a heating pad or warm compress.
4) Habit Changes
Just tweaking some of your daily habits can have an effect on your pain. For example, if you smoke, stop. If you’re overweight, shedding the extra pounds may help ease pressure on nerves and relieve pain.
5) Supplements
In some cases, chronic pelvic pain may be linked to a deficiency of key vitamins and minerals in the blood. A healthy dose of Vitamin D, vitamin E, and Magnesium supplements may help to soothe chronic pelvic pain. Herbs might also provide relief from chronic pain. Dong Quai, Licorice, Evening Primrose Oil, and Willow have all been known help to ease inflammation naturally.
6) Relaxation
Meditation, yoga, and even deep breathing exercises can help to reduce the stress and tension that can make chronic pain even worse. Ensuring you get good quality sleep is also essential for proper body recovery.
7) New Treatments
As well as these popular options, there are new treatments now available that can drastically improve the quality of life for women with pelvic pain. These can include the O-Shot and the diVa Laser treatment. These options, while requiring an out of pocket expense, can have dramatic effects for women of all ages.
If you are experiencing female pelvic pain symptoms, we are here to help you. Dr. Ryan McWhorter and his team at Women’s Pelvic Specialty Care run a specialist clinic based in Montgomery Alabama (Alabama Functional Medicine). They have helped hundreds of women to overcome chronic pelvic pain and to improve their quality of life. Reach out to us today to see how we can help you.
