Know the causes, symptoms and pain treatments at the bottom of the pelvis. Find relief to your discomfort with our complete guide.

The pain in the lower part of the pelvis, also known as pelvic pain, can be an distressing symptom that affects both men and women. It refers to any discomfort or pain experienced in the area located under the navel and between the bones of the hip. The lower part of the pelvis contains several organs, such as the bladder, the uterus (in women), the prostate (in men), as well as the intestines, the muscles and the ligaments. Determining the underlying cause of pelvic pain is crucial for a precise diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common causes of pain at the bottom of the pelvis:

• Gynecological disorders: conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease (EIP) and uterine fibroids can cause persistent pelvic pain in women.
• Urinary tract infections (ITU): Bladder or urethra infections can cause pelvic discomfort, frequent urination and ardor sensation when urinating.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia can cause pelvic pain along with other symptoms such as abnormal vaginal flow and painful sexual relations.

In addition, certain gastrointestinal disorders and musculoskeletal problems can also contribute to low pelvic pain. In some cases, the cause may be related to pregnancy or postpartum changes. It is important to keep in mind that the severity, location and duration of pain can vary depending on the underlying condition. If you experience persistent or worsen pelvic pain, it is recommended to seek medical attention for adequate evaluation and diagnosis.

Understanding Pelvic Pain

Causes of pelvic pain:

1. Reproductive system disorders: pelvic pain may be due to disorders related to the reproductive system, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease (EIP).
2. Urinary apparatus conditions: urinary tract infections (ITU), bladder infections or kidney stones can also cause pelvic pain.
3. Gastrointestinal problems: digestive disorders such as irritable intestine syndrome (SII), constipation or intestinal inflammatory disease (EII) can manifest as pelvic pain.
4. Musculoskeletal problems: pelvic pain may be due to muscle tension, distension or dysfunction of pelvic soil muscles.

It is important to keep in mind that pelvic pain can have organic and functional causes. Organic causes involve physical abnormalities or diseases in the pelvic region, while functional causes involve underlying problems with the functioning of organs or structures without any physical abnormalities.

Diagnosing the specific cause of pelvic pain requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. He or she may perform a physical examination, review medical history, and use various diagnostic tests such as pelvic ultrasound, laparoscopy, or blood tests. Once the underlying cause is identified, an appropriate treatment plan can be made to relieve pelvic pain and address the root problem. Effective treatment may include medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. Remember that early diagnosis and intervention play a crucial role in effectively treating pelvic pain and improving overall quality of life.

Common Causes of Lower Pelvic Pain

Infections and Inflammation

Infections: Various infections can cause low pelvic pain. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis can cause inflammation and discomfort in the pelvic area. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly those affecting the bladder or urethra, can also cause lower pelvic pain.

Did you know? Untreated STIs can progress and lead to more serious complications, such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and chronic pelvic pain.

Inflammation: Inflammation of the reproductive organs, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, can cause low pelvic pain. Conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and pelvic congestion syndrome often involve inflammation and can cause chronic discomfort.

• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Interstitial cystitis
• urinary stones

1. Appendicitis
2. Stress fractures
3. Ovarian cysts or tumors
4. Uterine fibroids

Gynecological Conditions Associated with Pelvic Pain

1. Endometriosis: endometriosis is a frequent gynecological condition in which the tissue that covers the uterus grows outside it. This abnormal growth can cause pelvic pain, especially during menstruation. Other symptoms can be pain during intercourse, abundant menstrual bleeding and infertility. According to studies, approximately 10% of women of reproductive age are affected by endometriosis.

• 2. Pelvic inflammatory disease (EIP): EPI is an infection of female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. It is usually caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. The pelvic pain associated with the EPI can vary from deaf and constant to acute and intense. Other symptoms can be abnormal vaginal flow, fever and pain when urinating.
1. 2. 1. Risk factors: Certain risk factors increase the probability of developing EPI, such as having multiple sexual partners, antecedents of STIs or previous EPI episodes.
2. 2. 2. Complications: If not, EPI can cause serious complications such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain and ectopic pregnancies.
• 3. Ovarian cysts: ovarian cysts are bags full of liquid that develop in the ovaries. Although most ovarian cysts are benign and are resolved by themselves, those of larger or those that cause ovarian torsion can cause pelvic pain. In some cases, the breakage of a cyst can cause intense pelvic pain and internal hemorrhage.

“Gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and ovarian cysts are among the common causes of pelvic pain in women. It is crucial that health professionals take into account these conditions and their associated symptoms when they evaluate and treat patientswith pelvic pain. “

Urinary Tract Infections and Pelvic Pain

When an IU affects the lower urinary tract, it mainly affects the bladder and urethra. The bacteria responsible for the infection can penetrate the urethra and move to the bladder, causing infection and irritation. This causes the appearance of pelvic pain, which is usually described as a deaf pain or pressure in the lower part of the abdomen. In some cases, pain can be accompanied by a burning sensation when urinating or an increase in the desire to urinate.

Important information:

• The pelvic pain associated with an IU should not be ignored, since it can indicate a more serious infection or complications.
• It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if pelvic pain is severe, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by fever, chills, or blood in the urine.
• UTIs can affect both men and women, although they are more common in women due to the shorter length of the urethra and its greater proximity to the anus.

Management of a UTI involves timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which usually includes antibiotic treatment to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. It is essential to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if pelvic pain persists or worsens. Additionally, maintaining good personal hygiene, hydrating, and urinating regularly can help reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections and associated pelvic pain.

Digestive issues and their impact on lower pelvis

A common digestive problem that can contribute to lower pelvic pain is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, such as abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines, nerve abnormalities, and an imbalance of bacteria in the intestine.

Important information:

• IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
• Other symptoms of IBS can be diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both.
• It is important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent or severe lower pelvic pain, as it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.

In addition to IBS, other digestive problems such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroenteritis, and diverticulitis can also cause lower pelvic pain. Inflammatory bowel disease refers to a group of conditions characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is an infection of the digestive system that can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting.

Pelvic Pain in Men: Possible Causes and Treatment Options

There are several possible causes of pelvic pain in men, which can be classified into different medical conditions. A common cause is prostatitis, which implies the inflammation of the prostate gland. Other possible causes may be urinary tract infections, bladder disorders, sexually transmitted infections, hernias or musculoskeletal problems such as muscle spasms or nerve compression. It is important to note that the specific underlying cause can vary from one person to another, so it is essential that a healthcare professional perform an exhaustive evaluation to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

• Prostatitis: inflammation of the prostate gland
• Urinary infections: infections that affect the urinary system
• Bladder disorders: diseases that affect bladder
• Sexually transmitted infections: infections transmitted by sexual contact
• Hernias: abnormal protrusions of organs or tissues through weak points of the abdominal wall.
• Musculoskeletal problems: problems related to the muscles, bones or nerves of the pelvis

It is important to note that pelvic pain in men should not be ignored or neglected. Immediate medical care is essential to identify the underlying cause and provide adequate treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent possible complications.

Pelvic pain treatment options in men depend on the underlying cause. In cases of prostatitis, antibiotics can be prescribed to treat infection and reduce inflammation. For urinary tract infections, antibiotics are also often used. Bladder disorders may require medications to improve bladder function or surgical interventions if necessary. Sexually transmitted infections may require specific antimicrobial treatment. Hernias may require surgical repair. Musculoskeletal problems can often be treated by physiotherapy, medication or other interventions depending on the state of each person. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to obtain a precise diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

1. Antibiotics: They are used to treat infections and reduce inflammation
2. Medications: prescribed to improve bladder function or relieve symptoms
3. Surgical interventions: necessary for certain bladder disorders or hernias
4. Antimicrobial therapy: Specific treatment of sexually transmitted infections
5. Physiotherapy: Helps treat musculoskeletal problems of the pelvis

When to Seek Medical Help for Lower Pelvic Pain

1. Persistent or severe pain: If you experience persistent or severe lower pelvic pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers, it is advisable to seek medical help. This type of pain may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as an infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, or endometriosis. The doctor can perform a thorough examination and order appropriate tests to diagnose the underlying cause of the pain.

2. Unusual bleeding: Another red flag that requires medical attention is the presence of unusual bleeding along with low pelvic pain. This may include abnormal vaginal bleeding outside of your regular menstrual cycle, excessive bleeding during menstruation, or bleeding after intercourse. These symptoms could indicate problems such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or even certain types of cancer. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the cause and appropriate treatment options.

Important: If you experience persistent or severe lower pelvic pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers, along with unusual bleeding, it is recommended to seek immediate medical help for a complete evaluation and appropriate treatment.

3. 3. Fertility issues: Women who are actively trying to conceive and are experiencing lower pelvic pain should consider contacting their healthcare provider. Sometimes, pelvic pain can be associated with reproductive problems such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, which can affect fertility. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy.

Note: It is advisable to seek medical guidance if you experience lower pelvic pain while trying to conceive to identify and address any potential underlying fertility issues.

Remember that if you are not sure of gravity or cause of your pelvic pain, it is always better to sin precaution and seek medical assistance. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms, perform the necessary tests and offer you the appropriate orientation for your specific ailment.

Managing and Relieving Pelvic Pain at Home

1. Heat therapy: The application of heat in the affected area can provide a temporary relief of pelvic pain. You can use a thermal pad or take a hot bath to relieve discomfort.

• Place a thermal pad on the bottom of the abdomen or use a hot water bag wrapped in a towel. Keep the heat at a comfortable level and let it act for about 15-20 minutes each time.
• If you prefer a hot bath, fill the bathtub with warm water and immerse for 20-30 minutes. Add EPSOM salt or essential oils such as lavender can increase relaxation.

2. Analgesics without a recipe: Sales without recipe can help relieve pelvic pain from mild to moderate. It is important to follow the recommended dose and consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.

1. Among the most common free sale analgesics are paracetamol and no n-steroidal ant i-inflammatory (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
2. Read and follow the container instructions carefully. If you suffer from any pr e-existing disease or you are taking other medications, consult your doctor before taking any new medication.

3. 3. Relaxation techniques: stress and tension can contribute to pelvic pain. Practicing relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety and muscle tension, favoring pain relief.

Dedicate a few minutes a day to practice deep breathing exercises or guided meditation to help relax the mind and body.

Performing activities such as yoga or soft stretching can also help release tension in the pelvic area.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont