Left Side Pelvic Pain

The part of the human body around the hip bones and the end of the vertebral column is known as the pelvis. As it has the shape of a basin, it is also known as the 'pelvic girdle'. The pelvis connects the trunk to the lower limbs in the human body. As it is a weight bearing bone, it is strong and rigid. It also functions to protect the internal reproductive organs.

What is Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain is the pain experienced by a person in the lower abdomen, groin and also the rectal area. Pain felt by women in the vaginal area is also a part of pelvic pain. It can be in the form of a dull ache or even sharp pains, and can be intermittent as well as constant. Pelvic pain is a common symptom of many diseases; cervical cancer being the most prominent. It is also the pain that occurs during a menstrual cycle or sexual intercourse.

Causes of Pelvic Pain
Infection or inflammation of the organs present in the pelvic girdle, are common reasons for pelvic pain. Women also experience pelvic pain in the later stages of pregnancy. Ovarian cysts, vaginal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, pelvic adhesions, bladder problems, irritable bowel syndrome, uterine fibroids and pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID) are the other serious causes of pelvic pain. Pelvic pain can also be chronic. It is an uncommon type of pain and there are many serious reasons for it. Chronic pelvic pain is the major symptom of endometriosis.

Left Side Pelvic Pain
People, especially women, complain of pelvic pain in the left side. There are numerous causes for the sudden left side pelvic pain; though not always serious. Constipation or gas can also lead to pelvic pain on left side. In women, most of the times, the pain felt in the pelvic region is due to menstrual cramps. All the causes mentioned above can lead to left side pelvic pain. Ectopic pregnancy is also one of the major reasons for pelvic pain. This type of pain is very sharp like a strong cramp and sometimes, is also accompanied with bleeding. Women often confuse this type of pain with stomach pain.

Any complications or problems related to bowels can also result in pelvic pain. Pelvic pain is the common symptom of kidney stones, irritable bowel syndrome or other bowel related disorders. Left side pelvic pain is also the symptom of diseases related to reproductive organs like the left ovary, fallopian tube; or colon and bladder.

Treatment for Left Side Pelvic Pain
Although pelvic pain on left side may not always be an indication of some serious disorder, it is advisable for a woman to immediately see a gynecologist. One must make sure that pelvic pain is not the symptom of any further complications. A doctor plays a very crucial role and has to accurately diagnose the cause of left side pelvic pain as there are numerous causes and any further treatment depends on the diagnosis. The doctor will suggest a treatment according to the determined cause of the pelvic pain. Certain prescribed medications can provide temporary relief from the pain. If the pain is due to menstruation problems, doctors may also prescribe birth control pills to relieve the pain. Sometimes, physical therapy, change in diet or exercise routines can also cure pelvic pain in left side. Infections in the bladder can be cured by antibiotics or surgery.

If you experience left side pelvic pain, immediately consult a doctor and get yourself treated to avoid serious diseases or complications, as a woman's health should be her priority.