Pelvic pain, for many women, is a common experience. Yet, not all types of pelvic pain are normal. What is normal pelvic pain and when does it make sense to schedule a visit with your gynecologist?
Certain kinds of pelvic pain are normal. For example, according to WebMD it is common for women to experience pelvic pain mid-way through their menstrual cycle when the ovary releases an egg. The pain is usually very brief in duration. Women also commonly experience menstrual cramps, which result when the uterus tightens during menstruation. Heating pads, exercise, and lowering stress during your period can reduce the impact of this kind of pelvic pain. However, excessive period pain that impacts your everyday life is not normal. In this case, it might be wise to schedule a visit with a gynecologist.
There are some kinds of pelvic pain that can be indicative of a more serious condition. Sharp cramps accompanied nausea and dizziness and heavy bleeding can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, a potentially deadly condition where the embryo gets implanted outside the uterus. Sexual transmitted diseases can also lead to pelvic pain. If you haven’t been tested recently, you might want to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases, especially if you are suffering from pelvic pain.
Ovarian cysts can also cause pain. While most ovarian cysts are harmless, sometimes the cyst can burst or twist. Dr. Shakiba is a urogynecologist at Women’s Pelvic Surgery who can perform a pelvic exam or ultrasound to check for this kind of complication if you are prone to ovarian cysts. Uterine fibroids and endometriosis can also cause pelvic pain. If you experience particularly painful periods, you may want to speak to Dr. Shakiba at Women’s Pelvic Surgery.
Other conditions, like pelvic organ prolapse can also lead to pain. While this condition isn’t serious, it can impact your quality of life and there are treatment options available. Women often experience this condition after giving birth. While the condition usually resolves on its own, in some cases, women need additional treatment.
According to Today, women who experience any kind of pelvic pain that interferes with their life activities should speak to their gynecologist. Excessive pain can be a sign that something else is going on. Some symptoms mimic those of period cramps but could indicate ovarian cancer. One of the risks with ovarian cancer is that it isn’t often detected because the symptoms mimic the normal symptoms associated with menopause.
Pain during sex is also something to talk to your doctor about. While many women occasionally experience painful sex, every sexual encounter shouldn’t be painful. As many as 3 in 4 women experience painful sex.
Dr. Shakiba at Women’s Pelvic Surgery, L.L.C. offers cutting-edge treatments and surgical options for women experiencing common conditions that can lead to pelvic pain. You don’t have to live with pelvic pain. There are options out there for you.
If you are experiencing above symptoms please make appointment to see Dr. Khashayar Shakiba.
Dr. Khashayar Shakiba is a board-certified urogynecologist and skilled surgeron. Call to schedule a visit with Dr. Shakiba here at Womens Pelvic Surgery. He is an expert in urogynecology and is comfortable answering any questions you may have.
