What Is Causing My Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is an issue that many individuals experience at some point in their lives. It can manifest for various reasons and can significantly impact daily activities, relationships and overall quality of life. Understanding the potential causes of pelvic pain is crucial for effective diagnosis and management. Core Surgical in NYC explores the common causes of pelvic pain.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Both men and women experience pelvic pain, which can become worse over time if left untreated. Many factors are involved in treating pelvic pain, as there are many reasons for experiencing this condition:

1. Menstrual Issues: Many people with periods experience dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, which can be debilitating. In fact, studies show that 50-90% of women of reproductive age report having some menstrual pain, with around 15% experiencing severe symptoms that require medical attention.
2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A common complication arising from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), PID can cause significant pelvic pain. The CDC reports that PID affects approximately 1 million women in the U.S. each year. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and fertility issues.
3. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It affects about 10% of women, leading to severe pain during menstruation, intercourse, and chronic pelvic pain. Many women wait an average of 7-10 years for a diagnosis due to a lack of awareness and understanding of the condition.
4. Ovarian Cysts: While most ovarian cysts are benign and do not cause symptoms, they can lead to pelvic pain if they rupture or if large enough to press on other structures. Recent studies estimate that about 1 in 5 women will develop an ovarian cyst at some point during their reproductive years.
5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that can also cause pelvic discomfort. It is estimated that about 10-15% of the global population suffers from IBS, with women being affected more often than men.
6. Pelvic Floor Disorders: Conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction, which can result in pain during sexual activity, urinary issues, and bowel problems, are surprisingly common and underdiagnosed. Research indicates that up to 30% of women may experience some form of pelvic floor disorder throughout their lives.
7. Musculoskeletal Issues: Pelvic pain can sometimes arise due to problems with the muscles and ligaments supporting the pelvis. Conditions like pelvic girdle pain or issues related to posture and core strength can contribute significantly to discomfort.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, it’s important to see the specialists at Core Surgical for an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic approaches may include physical examinations, imaging tests (like ultrasounds or MRIs) and, in some cases, laparoscopy.

Treatment options will vary depending on the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications (pain relievers, hormonal therapy, or antibiotics for infections)
• Physical therapy to strengthen pelvic floor muscles
• Surgery in more severe cases, such as endometriosis or large ovarian cysts

NYC Midtown Pelvic Pain Treatment Doctors

Pelvic pain can stem from many causes, and addressing it often requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s essential to communicate openly with your Core Surgical practitioner about your symptoms for proper evaluation and management. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe pelvic pain, schedule an appointment with us today.