The prevalence of chronic pelvic pain is higher than any other type of musculoskeletal pain. As a result, it has many causes and treatment options. However, the most common cause in females is endometriosis, which occurs when cells from the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grow outside the uterine wall.
It can sometimes be linked to certain gynecological conditions, like polyps or fibroids, but is often not present with these conditions. Therefore, many treatment options are available for this condition, from physical therapy to medication.
What Causes Chronic Pain in Pelvic Region?
Endometriosis is the most common cause of chronic pelvic pain, ranging in severity. Symptoms of endometriosis include chronic pain and painful periods, sometimes causing a person to miss work or school. Here you can see the causes of chronic pelvic pain and the treatment.
These symptoms occur because endometriosis causes the body to create scar tissue, usually in places like the ovaries and uterus. Over time, this scar tissue may lead to adhesions which increase pelvic pain due to heightened pressure on essential structures like the bladder and rectum.
Endometriosis can be diagnosed through laparoscopy, during which a surgeon can remove affected tissue during surgery. Another option for treatment is hormonal management with birth control pills or even surgery.
Treatments for Chronic Pelvic Pain
The most common treatment for pelvic pain is laparoscopic surgery. This surgery is performed to remove areas of endometrial tissue that have grown outside the uterus. A surgeon will use laparoscopic instruments to remove these tissues and can even do so during a minimally invasive procedure. After removal, the surgeon will use gauzes or other agents to stem any bleeding during recovery.
Despite any associated symptoms, this condition can also be treated with ovary removal, which is less invasive than laparoscopic surgery but more effective overall. Over time, these treatments can dramatically reduce pain and improve quality of life. In addition, this type of outpatient surgery is easy to perform and effective at significantly reducing pain associated with endometriosis.
Home Remedies For Pelvic Pain
There are many treatment options for chronic pelvic pain, such as physical therapy or medication. These options may effectively reduce the pain or discomfort associated with this condition. However, you can also try a few things at home to overcome pain. These remedies include:
- Taking hot showers
- Medication for pain management
- Relaxing in case the pain is severe
Physical therapy can also help treat chronic pelvic pain and is often a practical option for individuals with conditions that don’t require surgical intervention.
Medication can also help treat symptoms of chronic pelvic pain, whether they be due to endometriosis or another cause altogether. If a patient’s pain is due to endometriosis or other causes of chronic pelvic pain, then medications like ibuprofen should be taken as needed to help reduce any associated symptoms.
Final Words
Chronic pelvic pain is a prevalent condition and can cause significant discomfort. Endometriosis is the most common cause of chronic pelvic pain and is treated with surgery. However, other options are available if medication or physical therapy aren’t suitable for the patient.
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