Pelvic pain can occur in both men and women. It can be caused by a variety of conditions. Some of the more common causes of pelvic pain include:

• Bladder infections such as interstitial cystitis
• Hernias
• Kidney stones
• Bowel issues
• Endometrial issues, and ovarian cysts (in women)

Treatment is based on the cause, and these pains usually resolve once the acute condition resolves.  Read on the learn more about these specific conditions that can result in pelvic pain.

Endometriosis and Fibroids

Chronic pelvic pain in women is often related to several problems related to the unique pelvic anatomy.   Endometriosis and fibroids are uterine tissue that forms outside the normal uterine location.  Its growth is stimulated by the normal hormonal cycles.  The tissue eventually causes scar tissue in the pelvic region and the scarring can cause diffuse pelvic pain.  Surgery is often used to help resolve some of the problems related to this condition.  Physical therapy and neuropathic medications can be helpful for long-term management.

Chronic Interstitial Cystitis

Chronic interstitial cystitis is an issue seen mainly in women with irritability of the bladder.  The lining in the bladder becomes scarred, has pinpoint bleeding, and then becomes shrunken and stiff.  Frequent urination (up to 60 or more times a day) and constant pelvic pain are common with chronic interstitial cystitis.  Bladder distention is sometimes helpful and sometimes medication is instilled into the bladder.  Bladder stimulators sometimes are implanted to help control symptoms.

Hernias

Hernias more commonly appear in men than in women.  The muscle wall in the groin region weakens and abdominal contents push out of the area.  Surgical repair is the treatment of choice, however there are nerves in the region that in 2% of the population can become entrapped in scar tissue and be painful.  Physical therapy to release scarring, medications, and sometimes steroid injections are used to relieve symptoms.