Left Side Pelvic Pain

The pelvis is the part of the human body, located around the hip bones and the end of the vertebral column. As it has the shape of a basin, it is also known as the 'pelvic girdle'. In the human body, the pelvis connects the trunk to the lower limbs. As it is a weight bearing bone, it is strong and rigid. It protects the internal reproductive organs. Pelvic pain may be observed due to numerous reasons. Let us take a detailed look at it.

What is Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain is the pain experienced by a person in the lower abdomen, groin or the rectal area. Pain experienced by women in the vaginal area is a part of pelvic pain as well. It can be in the form of a dull ache or even sharp pains; or can be intermittent as well as constant. Pelvic pain is a common symptom of many diseases; cervical cancer being the most prominent one. Pelvic pain may also be experienced during a menstrual cycle or sexual intercourse. The following are some of the common causes of pelvic pain on left side.

Causes of Pelvic Pain
Infection or inflammation to the organs present in the pelvic girdle, are common reasons for pelvic pain. Women may even 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), etc. are the other serious causes of pelvic pain. Chronic pelvic pain is the major symptom of endometriosis.

Constipation or gas is a common and minor cause of pelvic pain on left side. Most of the time, the pain felt in the pelvic region in women may be due to menstrual cramps experienced during the monthly period. Ectopic pregnancy is another major reason for pelvic pain. The pain caused due to extopic pregnancy is very sharp like a strong cramp and is, sometimes, accompanied with bleeding.

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. It is observed that pelvic pain is often confused with stomach pain. However, in order to get the condition treated properly, people must be able to explain the symptoms to the doctor properly.

Treatment for Pelvic Pain
Although pelvic pain on left side may not always be an indication of some serious disorder, it is advisable to consult the doctor if you experience this type of pain frequently. A proper diagnosis will help in making sure that there is no serious underlying cause or complication. The doctor will suggest treatment according to the cause of the pelvic pain. Certain prescribed medications or antibiotics can provide temporary relief from the pain. If the pain is due to menstruation problems, doctors may even prescribe birth control pills or hormone medication to relieve the pain.

Hysterectomy may be required in some cases of chronic pelvic pain. Infections in the bladder can be cured by antibiotics or surgery. It should be noted that ectopic pregnancy in pregnant women is a dangerous condition, and hence, any type of pain experienced by pregnant women should be brought to the notice of the doctor. On the other hand, conditions like constipation, flatulence, etc. can be cured by physical therapy, change in diet or exercise routines.

If you experience left side pelvic pain, immediately consult a doctor and get yourself treated in order to avoid complications caused due to serious underlying diseases. Women should specifically remember that maintaining proper health should always be their priority. Take care!