Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Yogesh Sambhaji Torkadi

Possible Reasons for Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can be alarming, especially when its cause isn’t immediately clear. It might be dull, sharp, cramp-like or even a persistent pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. Understanding what’s behind the pain can help you get timely care and the right treatment. This article explores the most common causes of pelvic pain in women and men and when to seek medical help.

What is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort or ache in the lower abdomen area, just below the belly button. It can feel like heaviness, sharp jabs, cramps or even pressure.

Common Reasons of Pelvic Pain in Women

Several gynecological or reproductive health issues can cause pelvic discomfort in women. These include:

Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

Cramping before or during menstruation is a common cause. These cramps result from uterine contractions and may radiate to the back or thighs.

Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz)

Some women experience sharp, brief pain during ovulation, around the middle of their cycle, typically on one side.

Endometriosis

This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, resulting in severe pain during sex, periods or even bowel movements.

Ovarian Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries can lead to pressure or sudden, sharp pelvic pain, especially if they rupture or grow large.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Infections of the female reproductive organs often happen due to untreated STIs and can cause pelvic ache, fever, abnormal discharge and pain during intercourse.

Ectopic Pregnancy or Miscarriage

Pelvic pain early in pregnancy could point to an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage and should be assessed immediately.

Non-Reproductive Causes of Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain isn't always related to reproductive organs. Other possible causes include:

IBS or Constipation

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or severe constipation can cause cramping and bloating in the lower abdomen.

Bladder Infections or Interstitial Cystitis

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder inflammation can result in pelvic pain, burning while urinating or frequent urges to urinate.

Appendicitis or Kidney Stones

Both appendicitis and kidney stones may trigger sharp, severe lower abdominal pain that can extend to the pelvic region and often require urgent treatment.

Pelvic Pain in Men

Men may also experience pelvic pain, though the causes often differ from those in women.

Prostatitis Pelvic Pain

Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause pain between the scrotum and rectum, sometimes radiating to the lower back or thighs.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Though less common in men, UTIs can still lead to discomfort in the pelvic region, along with urinary symptoms like burning or urgency.

Hernia or Muscle Strain

A groin hernia or pulled abdominal muscles can mimic pelvic pain, especially if there's a bulge or pain during lifting or coughing.

When to See a Doctor

It’s important to consult a doctor if pelvic pain is:

A doctor can perform some diagnostic tests like pelvic exams, ultrasounds, urine tests or imaging tests to identify the exact cause.

Conclusion

Pelvic pain occurs because of many possible reasons, from menstrual cramps to serious infections or organ conditions. Understanding your symptoms and patterns can guide you toward the right treatment. Whether it’s reproductive or digestive in nature, don’t ignore continuous or severe pain, early diagnosis is crucial for better results and relief.

Frequently Asked Questions