Few people enjoy lingering pain, so finding quick relief is always desirable. When it comes to pelvic pain, symptoms and solutions depend on the reasons for your discomfort.
At Metro Anesthesia & Pain Management in West Des Moines and East Des Moines, Iowa, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pelvic pain. The good news is some pelvic pain conditions respond well to self-care.
Here’s what you need to know about minor and major causes of your pain.
Perhaps the most common pelvic issue women experience relates to their menstrual cycles. Usually, a few days each month feature cramping and pain. Some women also feel pelvic pain during ovulation. Fluid released at this time may spread, causing irritation and discomfort.
Warm compresses or heating pads are home care methods that can ease your symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers used as directed can further take the edge off of discomfort.
Light exercise, including stretches, helps to stimulate blood flow, which naturally eases pain and inflammation. Resting with your feet raised also stimulates blood movement.
Even if you’re suffering from a more significant pelvic pain condition, these steps can help you minimize your pain until you visit our offices for a consultation.
Other problems involving reproductive organs typically need diagnosis and treatment before you experience lasting pain relief. Contact us as soon as pelvic pain begins to interfere with your daily life.
You may experience pelvic pain related to reproductive organs from conditions such as:
Scar tissue (adhesions) often results from endometriosis or other pelvic problems. These adhesions can cause pain on their own once they form. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may also cause pelvic pain.
The urinary tract is another common source of pelvic pain. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can clear up on their own, but often they’re bacterial in origin, requiring medical treatment to prevent complications.
Other urinary system problems causing pain include interstitial cystitis (inflamed bladder) and urinary stones.
Appendicitis is perhaps not a condition you’d connect with the pelvis, but it can cause severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Typically accompanied by fever and nausea, appendicitis is a medical emergency. Seek immediate attention if you experience these symptoms.
The gastrointestinal system, reproductive system, and urinary tract are all susceptible to certain types of cancer. Tumors, benign or malignant, can cause pelvic pain.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause pelvic pain as well as constipation and diarrhea. Symptoms tend to come and go, with relief usually following a bowel movement.
Pelvic organ prolapse can cause pelvic pain, as the connective tissue of the pelvic floor no longer has the strength to hold and support organs in place.
The quickest way to get rid of pelvic pain means identifying the root cause. Once you’re diagnosed, a pain management plan can include treatment for your condition and its symptoms.
Call or click to book your visit with Metro Anesthesia & Pain Management today.