Many women seem to think that pelvic pain is something that they have to learn to live with, however this is not so. Though some amount of pain is normal, severe pain which is constant or chronic, particularly the sort of pain that is accompanied by other problematic symptoms should not be ignored.
To get to the bottom of the cause for pelvic pain, try asking yourself the following questions:
- It is a constant pain, or is in recurring or chronic in nature? A constant, sharp pain can indicate a certain set of problems, but a chronic pain that comes and goes, often in accordance with a woman’s monthly period, can indicate a completely different set of problems.
- Is it a sharp or stabbing pain, or a dull, general ache? Does it begin suddenly or gradually?
Does the pain grow worse at certain times of the month, such as before or at the time of the period or even mid-cycle? Many women experience some amount of pain at the time of ovulation as well.- Does the pain grow worse due to any particularly physical activity or if you lift something heavy or are under some physical strain?
- Is the pain somehow related to mental stresses and strains? Does it get exacerbated when there is a lot of pressure?
- Are there other symptoms that accompany the pain? Is there any excessive bleeding, cramping, back pain, and so on?
- Are there any fluctuations in weight; any unexplained weight loss or weight gain?
- Any skin rashes or itchiness, blisters or sores present particularly in the pelvic or genital area could also be an indicator – are any of these symptoms present?
- Are there any digestive disturbances such as painful bowel movements, bloody or dark stools, diarrhea or constipation, nausea or vomiting and so on?
- What changes, if any are noted in vaginal discharge – is there a change in consistency, amount, color or odor of the discharge?
- Is there any incontinence of the frequent urge to urinate, difficulty or painful urination, or any blood being passed along with the urine? Or is there the urge to go and then very little urine actually being passed at the end of it?
- Do mood swings or bloating accompany the pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain is best not ignored, particularly if is impacting regular life negatively. Consider the above questions so that you can help the doctor make a defective diagnosis.