women s health issues
Pelvic Pain in Women
Introduction
Pelvic pain is discomfort that occurs in the lowest part of the abdomen. Pain that occurs externally in the genital area (vulva, or labia) is called vulvar pain. Many women have pelvic pain. Pain is considered chronic if it continues to occur for more than 3 to 6 months. Pelvic pain can be a gynecologic symptom. That is, it can result from a problem affecting the female reproductive system. Or it may be caused by problems in the urinary, digestive, or musculoskeletal system. The pain may start suddenly or gradually. The pain may gradually increase in intensity, sometimes occurring in waves. It may be constant or come and go. It may be sharp or dull or crampy (like menstrual cramps), or some combination. The pelvic area may feel tender if touched. Depending on the cause, women may have Vaginal Bleeding or a 