Chronic Pelvic Pain

What is chronic pelvic pain?

Chronic pelvic pain is constant pain felt in the lower abdominal region and the pain may persist for longer duration, for more than six months.

What is the cause of chronic pelvic pain?

Chronic pelvic pain can be caused by different conditions that may or may not be related to reproductive organs such as pain due to urinary tract conditions. Cause for the pain may be unknown in some cases.

What are the symptoms?

The common symptoms include pain during periods, ovulation, intercourse, and pain when passing urine or bowel movements or lower back pain.

How is chronic pelvic pain diagnosed?

Chronic pelvic pain is diagnosed based on your medical history and pelvic examination. Certain tests such as ultrasound, laparoscopy, cystoscopy, colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy are performed to find out the cause of your pain.

What are the treatment options?

There are several treatment options to relieve chronic pelvic pain. They include medications, physical therapy, nutrition and surgery. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a good posture and regular exercise help reduce pain. Pain medications such as non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may relieve pelvic pain. Vitamin B1 and magnesium supplements may help reduce pain. Surgery to destroy nerves and block pain signals may be considered when all other treatment methods are unsuccessful.