8 Serious Conditions That Can Cause Pelvic Pain in Women

Pelvic pain is a quite common issue for many women. Many of them experience pain during ovulation and/or periods. However, there are many gynecological conditions that can also manifest themselves through pain in the pelvic area. In this article, we have gathered eight serious conditions that can cause pelvic pain in women.

1. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus, the endometrium, starts to grow on pelvic organs. This tissue (like the endometrium) sheds during periods and can make them extremely painful. Additionally, women with endometriosis can also experience pelvic pain, lower back pain, pain during sex, spotting, heavy periods, and infertility. Even though endometriosis is not curable, there are a lot of treatment options that can help manage your symptoms. 

2. Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop on the uterine walls. Even though the cause of fibroids is still unknown, studies show that women with increased estrogen levels are more likely to have them. Moreover, fibroids tend to shrink during and after menopause when the level of estrogen decreases. In some women, fibroids are asymptomatic, while in others, they can cause pelvic pain, heavy and severe periods, back pain, and other symptoms. 

3. Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria from the anus penetrate the urethra and cause inflammation. This condition can affect both men and women. However, women are more susceptible to UTI since their urethras are located closer to the anus. Symptoms of this condition include pelvic pain, burning sensations during urination, cloudy urine, and urgency to urinate. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the ureters and kidneys. 

4. Ovarian Cyst

An ovarian cyst is a sac filled with fluid that occurs on the ovaries and can disappear throughout the menstrual cycle or remain for a long time. If the cyst remains, it can cause unpleasant symptoms like pelvic pain and feeling of pressure in the pelvic area. If you have noticed these symptoms, it is better to contact a gynecologist and undergo ovarian cyst treatment. In some cases, cysts can burst and cause life-threatening complications.  

5. Ovarian Torsion

Ovarian torsion is a serious condition that can lead to ovarian death. This condition occurs when the ovary twists around itself. As a result, the blood supply to this ovary becomes restricted and ovarian tissues can die. Symptoms of ovarian torsion include:

- Severe, sudden pain in the lower abdomen
- Cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting

In the case of the aforementioned symptoms, you need to contact a gynecologist immediately. 

6. Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition that occurs when the pelvic floor weakens and can’t hold your pelvic organs properly. These organs include your bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum. Women with pelvic organ prolapse can experience:

- Pressure in the pelvic area
- Lower back pain
- Pain during sex
- Pelvic pain
- Urinary incontinence
- Urge to urinate
- Vaginal bleeding between periods

Treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse depend on the severity of your condition. The most common of them include physical therapy, Kegel exercises, mechanical treatment, and surgery. 

7. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a condition that occurs when an untreated vaginal infection causes inflammation of the pelvic organs. These infections include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and bacterial vaginosis. The most common symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease include pelvic pain, pain during sex, spotting, abnormal vaginal discharge, and fever. If left untreated, the inflammation can contribute to the development of scars and adhesions that can interfere with fertilization and pregnancy. 

8. Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that requires surgical treatment. It occurs when a fertilized egg attaches outside of the uterus. In most cases, ectopic pregnancy develops in the fallopian tubes. This condition can cause missed periods, pelvic pain, and vaginal bleeding. Without timely and proper treatment, ectopic pregnancy can lead to fallopian tube rupture.