Does PCOS Cause Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic or abdominal pain in PCOS often occurs below the belly button and comes with cramps. It can range from moderate to severe, with throbbing, dull, or sharp sensations. You might feel it on one or both sides of your pelvis near the ovaries.
Did you know that ovarian cysts, small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries, can contribute to this pain? While most cysts are painless, larger or ruptured cysts can cause abdominal bloating, pain outside of your period, and discomfort during bowel movements or sex.
If you're experiencing pelvic pain even when you're not menstruating, it's important to consult with an endocrinologist and gyneceologist for evaluation and diagnosis.
It's important to note that pelvic pain experienced by individuals with PCOS can vary in intensity, duration, and location. Some may experience intermittent discomfort, while others may have more persistent pain. Additionally, other factors such as increased sensitivity to pain, muscle tension in the pelvic floor, or underlying conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can also contribute to pelvic pain.
Causes of pelvic pain
Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) starts growing outside of it. While PCOS and endometriosis are distinct conditions, they can coexist in some individuals. Endometriosis can cause pelvic pain, especially during menstrual periods, and it may contribute to the pelvic pain experienced by some women with PCOS.
Ovarian Cysts: PCOS is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. These cysts can grow and enlarge, causing stretching and pressure on the ovarian tissue. Ovarian cysts can contribute to pelvic pain, and their presence is often associated with PCOS. However, it's important to note that not all women with PCOS experience cyst-related pain.
Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is commonly observed in women with PCOS. This inflammation can affect the pelvic organs and tissues, leading to pelvic pain. While inflammation itself may not be a direct cause of PCOS, it can contribute to the overall discomfort experienced in the pelvic region.
Other Causes: Pelvic pain in PCOS can also be influenced by factors such as increased sensitivity to pain, muscle tension in the pelvic floor, or underlying conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease or irritable bowel syndrome. These factors can contribute to or exacerbate pelvic pain in individuals with PCOS.
It's important to remember that each person's experience with pelvic pain in PCOS can vary. If you're experiencing persistent or severe pelvic pain, it's crucial to connect with a trusted healthcare team. In Curate Health, our non-judgemental panel of expert Doctors help you with the best they can. Join www.curate.health now!
