What is Pelvic Pain?
Pain in the pelvic region may originate in the urinary, digestive or reproductive system, or it may be a musculoskeletal issue. It can vary in intensity, from moderate to severe, and it may be constant or intermittent.
Pelvic pain may also be situational, arising with a certain activity, such as sex or urination, and may radiate beyond the pelvic area.
What Causes Pelvic Pain?
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Myomas
- Ovarian cysts or tumors
- Ovarian torsion
- Neoplasms
- Pelvic adhesions
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infection
- Cervical stenosis
- Acute appendicitis
What Causes Vaginal Pain During Intercourse?
- Gastrointestinal issues (constipation, irritable bowel)
- Urinary concerns (interstitial cystitis, urethral syndrome)
- Insufficient vaginal lubrication
- Infection
- Musculoskeletal issues
- Pelvic vascular congestion
Solutions
Treatment options for vaginal or pelvic pain depends on the diagnosis and the patient’s individual symptoms. Options may include:
- Hormonal management, either oral or vaginal, such as birth control pills or vaginal rings.
- Hormonal injection, such as Depo-Provera.
- Medications – New medications reduce hormone levels and pain such as Orilissa and Myfrembre.
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Laparoscopy (used to diagnose endometriosis and may also be therapeutic)
- Hysterectomy