Pelvic pain refers to the discomfort felt in the area that’s below your belly button. It may result from digestive issues or irritable bowel syndrome in men. Pelvic pain in women, on the other hand, might signify anything from menstrual cramps to a more serious condition.

Let's talk about five typical causes of pelvic pain in women and explore treatments for each.

1. Menstrual pain and cramps

The most prevalent explanations behind pelvic pain in women are cramping and menstruation pain. This happens when a woman's menstruation begins. The uterine wall contracts in order to shed itself, causing unpleasant physical sensations.

Menstrual cramps and pain are frequently harmless and may be treated at home. Over-the-counter pain relievers may relieve the symptoms effectively. Applying a hot compress or a water bottle to the pelvic area may also be helpful. Additionally, those who exercise during their periods report less pain.

2. Sexually transmitted diseases

Pelvic pain can be brought on by sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease if left untreated. Among other problems, this leads to internal scarring, persistent discomfort, and infertility.

Disseminated gonococcal infection results from severe, untreated gonorrhea. This potentially fatal illness leads to rashes and arthritis. Antibiotics can successfully treat chlamydia and gonorrhea. Get tested and see your doctor right away if you suspect you may have an STI.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus begins to proliferate outside the womb. This is common when a woman begins to get her period. Endometriosis makes pregnancy difficult and creates agonizing pelvic pain.

Researchers are still trying to figure out what causes the illness. Heredity and hormone imbalances may have a role. Women in ages 30 to 40 are most commonly affected by the illness. If you are not attempting to conceive, hormonal birth control is an excellent endometriosis remedy.

If you're attempting to get pregnant, your doctor may prescribe a hormone drug that can temporarily disrupt your menstrual cycle. After you stop using the medication, your menstruation will resume. It is more likely that you will be able to get pregnant afterward. Over-the-counter pain medications may also be beneficial.

4. Ovarian cysts

When an ovary fails to produce an egg, the follicle fills with fluid. As a result, a cyst develops, which may cause pelvic discomfort.

The great majority of ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear on their own. An ultrasound may be used by your doctor to detect and evaluate cysts. Surgical intervention is only warranted in extremely rare cases.

There is no known strategy to avoid ovarian cysts other than delaying ovulation. If you have ovarian cysts on a frequent basis, consult your doctor regarding hormonal contraceptives.

5. Female reproductive cancer

Pelvic pain is a typical sign of female reproductive cancer. Weight reduction, vaginal discharge, spotting between cycles, and sex pain are all common symptoms.

Early vaginal, cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers are asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, the malignancy is usually already advanced. Female reproductive cancers can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Timely diagnosis, just like with other malignancies, decreases its risk of spreading.

Female reproductive cancer is far less prevalent than menstrual cramps and pains. The latter's threat, however, makes it important to treat female pelvic pain properly. Speak with your doctor if your pelvic pain is chronic.