Pelvic pain is a challenging and sometimes misunderstood medical problem that impacts both men and women. Despite its common occurrence, there are many myths about pelvic pain that lead to misunderstandings and delayed diagnosis. In this article, we will debunk 10 common myths about pelvic pain, shedding light on the realities of this condition and emphasizing the importance of seeking proper medical attention.

Myth 1: Pelvic pain is only a women's issue

One of the most common misconceptions about pelvic pain is that it only affects women. While diseases such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease are more common in women, men can also suffer from pelvic pain. One example is prostatitis, a disorder characterized by inflammation of the prostate gland. It is critical to understand that pelvic pain is not gender-specific, and both men and women should seek medical attention if they suffer from persistent discomfort in the pelvic region.

Myth 2: Pelvic pain is a normal part of aging

Pelvic pain is not an inevitable result of aging. While certain medical conditions, such as osteoarthritis, can become more common with age, persistent pelvic pain shouldn't be neglected and considered as a normal part of aging. Many causes of pelvic pain are manageable, and early treatment can improve results dramatically. Aging people should not accept pelvic pain as a natural consequence of their later years but instead seek medical attention to diagnose and address underlying problems.

Myth 3: Pelvic pain is always associated with gynecological issues

Although gynecological diseases such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and fibroids can contribute to pelvic pain in women, it is crucial to understand that the pelvic area contains lots of organs and tissues. Pelvic pain can be caused by gastrointestinal, urological, musculoskeletal, or neurological problems. Ignoring non-gynecological causes of pelvic discomfort may result in delayed diagnosis and unsuccessful treatment. A thorough medical examination is required to determine the underlying cause of pelvic pain, regardless of its origin.

Myth 4: Pelvic pain is just a sign of a minor issue

Pelvic pain should never be overlooked as unimportant. While minor concerns such as muscular strain or temporary inflammation may be the explanation for some cases, chronic or recurring pelvic pain requires a more thorough evaluation. Pelvic pain can be caused by severe medical conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, interstitial cystitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. Ignoring the symptoms may cause these diseases to exacerbate and cause long-term complications. Seeking medical help as soon as possible is critical for an accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment.

Myth 5: Pelvic pain is all in the head

Although psychological factors may affect pain perception and experience, this doesn't mean that pelvic pain is primarily a psychological problem. Pelvic pain is a complex issue with both physical and emotional components, and ignoring it as simply psychological can result in considerable delays in diagnosis and treatment. It is critical to take a holistic approach to pelvic pain that analyzes both the physical and mental aspects of the condition, ensuring people receive comprehensive treatment that addresses the relevant problem.

Myth 6: Pelvic pain is a normal part of the menstrual cycle

Even though minor discomfort or cramping is typical for some women during menstruation, severe or chronic pelvic pain is not an unavoidable aspect of the menstrual cycle. Endometriosis, adenomyosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease can produce severe pelvic discomfort that extends beyond regular monthly cramps. Women who suffer from chronic pelvic pain throughout their menstrual cycle should see a doctor to rule out underlying disorders and discuss treatment options.

Myth 7: Surgery is the only solution for pelvic pain

Surgery tends to be the last option for addressing pelvic pain, and many cases may be properly addressed with non-invasive or less invasive procedures. Physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and other conservative treatments can help relieve pelvic pain. Surgery should only be considered after a comprehensive examination of the underlying cause and the individual's general condition. Patients need to research numerous treatment choices and collaborate with their healthcare professionals to build a tailored and successful treatment approach.

Myth 8: Pelvic pain is always accompanied by visible symptoms

Contrary to popular belief, pelvic pain may not always manifest itself in the form of visible or clear symptoms. While certain conditions create obvious manifestations, such as swelling or redness, others might cause inside pain without any external signs. Chronic pelvic pain may also be a warning sign of a more serious underlying illness that is not readily identifiable on physical examination. To effectively diagnose and treat the root cause of pelvic pain, medical professionals should adopt an extensive approach that includes a medical history, imaging, and diagnostic testing.

Myth 9: Pelvic pain cannot be prevented

Although not all causes of pelvic discomfort are preventable, there are steps people may take to lower their risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, establishing proper hygiene, and quickly dealing with underlying medical concerns can help with pelvic health. Regular gynecological check-ups and screenings are vital for women to spot any problems early. People can reduce their risk of developing pelvic discomfort and associated consequences by taking a proactive approach to pelvic health.

Myth 10: Pelvic pain is a condition that can be self-diagnosed and treated

Self-diagnosis and self-treatment of pelvic pain are potentially hazardous and may result in unsuccessful attempts to address underlying problems. The proper diagnosis of pelvic pain is generally dependent upon a professional medical evaluation, as it is a complicated symptom with several underlying causes. People who suffer from pelvic pain should seek the advice of a doctor who can perform a thorough examination, order necessary tests, and establish a personalized treatment strategy based on a precise diagnosis.

An incomplete abortion is extremely rare, yet it can occur when a pregnancy is terminated. The word "incomplete abortion" might be perplexing because it implies that the termination did not happen. It signifies that the contents of the womb haven't been entirely emptied. Although the abortion has occurred, some material remains in the womb.

Incomplete Abortion - How Common Is It?

When most women have a pregnancy termination, they have no complications. Complications can, however, occur in rare circumstances. Some tissue may be left in your womb, which could be part of the uterine lining or pregnancy products (from the fetus or the placenta). You are no longer pregnant, but the abortion was not successful since there is still material inside your womb that needs to be removed.

The earlier you terminate your pregnancy, the easier it is for your womb to empty. Incomplete abortions are thus more probable if the termination occurs later in the pregnancy. However, the hazards remain manageable.

The likelihood of having an incomplete abortion following a medical termination is approximately:
- 1.6% through day 77 of pregnancy;
- 2.6% from 78 to 83 days;
- 3.4% from 83 to 91 days.

Incomplete abortions are less frequent following a surgical abortion since the doctor will have removed the contents of the womb during the surgery. However, it is still possible if any of the tissue is overlooked.

The Indications of an Incomplete Abortion

If you observe the following symptoms after your pregnancy termination, you may have had an incomplete abortion:
- Bleeding more than usual;
- Bleeding that persists beyond the first few days;
- Bleeding for more than three weeks;
- Extreme pain or cramps;
- Plaststhat last for more than a few days;
- Discomfort when something presses against your stomach;
- High fever that lasts more than a day or two.

What Happens If An Abortion Is Partial?

If you notice any evidence of an incomplete abortion, you should contact the emergency care right away. If there is any material left in your womb, you will require extra treatment because it can cause complications such as infections if not eliminated.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may order an ultrasound scan. If you experienced an incomplete abortion after taking the abortion pill, you may be able to take another dose of misoprostol to compress your womb more.

If this does not work or is not appropriate for you, the doctor may prescribe a surgical operation to remove the womb instead. Manual vacuum aspiration of a dilatation and curettage technique may be possible. Both procedures are normally performed without a general anesthetic, and you should not need to stay in the hospital overnight.

The same techniques are used to treat women who have experienced an incomplete miscarriage or who have tissue remaining in their womb after giving birth. You may be familiar with these techniques as they are also used to accomplish surgical pregnancy terminations.

The procedure should ensure that no tissue remains inside your womb. Your symptoms should resolve quickly, and the possibility of more serious problems should be removed. You should, however, keep an eye out for any signs of infection or other problems and call your doctor if you have any concerns.

The Risk of Tetanus (Lockjaw)

Tetanus is an infection that can be transmitted by improper abortion. Women who have not been immunized against tetanus are at a greater risk of becoming ill or dying from tetanus if anything not sterilized is implanted in their wombs during an abortion.

If a woman has an unsafe abortion and has not been vaccinated against tetanus in the last 10 years, she should be given tetanus immune globulin right away.

Fertility issues may be frustrating and challenging for any relationship. Reproduction is such a delicate (and emotionally charged) issue that it's a breeding soil for misconceptions. Some couples want to get pregnant so desperately that they'll go to any length to acquire it, whether it's listening to old wives' tales about what to eat to get particular sex or Googling their issues for hours on end to find answers from more questionable blogs. 

But the last thing you need to do is search through shady blogs to determine what is true and what is false. In this article, we have gathered seven debunked myths about infertility that you shouldn't believe in.

1. Only women can be infertile

Men and women are equally affected by infertility. Approximately 25% of infertility is caused by the male partner, 25% by the female spouse, 25% by a mix of both male and female factors, and 25% by an unknown reason.

2. Being on the pill decreases the ability to get pregnant later in life

There is no scientific evidence that using oral contraceptives has a negative long-term effect on fertility. If you're having trouble becoming pregnant, it's most likely due to anything else. It is critical to know that if you stop taking birth control to prepare for pregnancy, you should regularly track your menstrual cycle.

If your periods do not return to normal after 3-4 months of discontinuing birth control, you should consult a gynecologist, since being on the pill might disguise symptoms of illnesses such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

3. Infertility is uncommon

Infertility is far more frequent than most people assume. One in every eight couples experiences infertility. Problems with fertility affect roughly 6.7 million women in the United States. One in four women will have a miscarriage at some point in their lives. If you have more than one miscarriage, this may signal that you need to seek specialized reproductive treatment.

4. Lifestyle doesn’t affect fertility

Women who are significantly underweight or overweight, with a BMI of 30 or higher, may have difficulty conceiving. Overweight men may also have reproductive issues. A healthy weight and a well-balanced diet will assist you in conceiving. 

Quitting smoking, avoiding drinking, and abstaining from illegal drug usage can all help. Medications and medical disorders such as diabetes can have a role, so consult your doctor. Improving fertility can sometimes be as easy as changing medications.

5. Age affects only female fertility

While it is true that women's fertility declines with age, they are not the only ones who see fertility changes as they age. Between the ages of 32 and 37, women's fertility drops significantly, often by as much as 50%. Male infertility, like female infertility, rises with age. After the age of 40, a man's sperm volume and motility are probably going to start decreasing.

6. Irregular cycles indicate infertility

Many women are concerned that they are infertile if their periods are irregular. However, the odd irregular cycle is fairly prevalent. Disruptions in sleep, exercise regimen, and stress levels can all affect the delicate hormonal balance that regulates the menstrual cycle.

While irregular periods may not always indicate infertility, they might make conceiving difficult. Ovulation, which occurs around 14 days before your next period, is the best time to have sex; if your cycle is irregular, timing sex might be difficult. If this is the case, it's best to see your gynecologist as soon as possible, especially if you've gone more than three or four months without a period.

7. If you have one child, you can't be infertile

A previous successful pregnancy does not ensure a successful pregnancy the second time around. Secondary infertility is highly prevalent and may be extremely difficult for couples trying to have a sibling.

Menstrual cramps can be a nuisance for some women for a few days each month. Others, such as those suffering from endometriosis or adenomyosis, may experience severe, chronic, and even debilitating pain.

However, cramps and abdominal discomfort aren't always period-related, and if you have persistent pelvic pain, you should rule out other causes. This is especially true if your cramps do not improve or worsen at the same time each month. If you suspect that your persistent symptoms aren't caused by your monthly cycle, here are other possible causes.

1. Kidney stones 

Kidney stones are frequently associated with back or side pain just below the ribs. However, if a stone passes through the urinary tract, it can cause pain in the lower abdomen or even the vagina. An ultrasound or CT scan can aid in the diagnosis of this common condition, and blood and urine tests may be necessary to rule out other issues.

2. Painful bladder syndrome 

This condition, known technically as interstitial cystitis, is characterized by pain in the bladder that has no obvious or identifiable cause. Bladder muscles can contract and spasm in the same way that uterine muscles can, resulting in a cramping sensation. Sometimes the pain worsens with bladder filling and improves with bladder emptying, but this is not always the case.

3. A fibroid, cyst, or tumor 

If you have unexplained pelvic pain, your doctor will likely order imaging tests to rule out structural causes such as uterine fibroids, an ovarian cyst, or, in rare cases, a tumor in the reproductive organs. A colonoscopy may also be recommended by your doctor to ensure that you have no polyps in your bowel.

4. Ovarian torsion 

Only about 3% of all gynecological conditions are caused by this condition, and it is not caused by anything a woman does, such as jumping or twisting her body. According to experts, anyone experiencing sudden and severe abdominal pain, particularly if it is accompanied by vomiting, should go to the emergency room right away and be evaluated in a gynecology clinic.

5. Infection 

Some women recognize the symptoms of a urinary tract infection right away, such as a constant need to pee and a burning sensation when they go. However, a UTI can be difficult to diagnose at times. Lower abdominal pain and cramping can also be caused by UTIs, particularly in older women.

6. An untreated STI 

Untreated sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease. PID causes structural changes in the reproductive tract, which can lead to persistent abdominal pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, pain or bleeding during sex, and infertility or pregnancy complications.

7. A pelvic-floor injury 

When a pelvic floor muscle becomes overly tight, the nerves surrounding it can become irritated, resulting in cramp-like pains. Exercise, old orthopedic injuries that did not heal properly, chronic constipation, or even sex can all cause this.

8. Sexual assault or domestic violence 

Tight pelvic-floor muscles are also linked to domestic violence or sexual assault. It's very common for women who have been abused to hold a lot of tension in this area and have difficulty relaxing those muscles—which can cause physical symptoms as well as make exams and intimate relations more painful.

9. Gas 

Bloating and cramping are common after eating gas-producing foods such as cauliflower, beans, and broccoli. Some people experience chronic bloating as a result of a bowel disorder, food intolerance, or even the way they breathe.

10. Food poisoning or stomach flu 

These stomach cramps causes are fairly obvious because they occur quickly and are frequently accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea in addition to pain. Food poisoning is frequently caused by bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, or campylobacter, which can be found in undercooked meat or contaminated produce.

Similar symptoms can also be caused by a virus contracted through contaminated food or from another infected person.

11. A previous surgery 

If you've had abdominal surgery in the past and are now experiencing unexplained stomach cramps, it's possible that scars from the procedure are to blame. Scar tissue can become stuck to the layers of tissue beneath the skin, causing pain in the abdomen.

Gynecological disorders refer to the conditions that affect the organs of the female reproductive system. The reproductive system includes the breasts, uterus, fallopian tube, ovaries, and external genitalia. Every woman will have a gynecological problem at some point in her life. Gynecological diseases can have a significant influence on a woman’s sexual function, ability to bear children, and even live a normal life.

Learn more about the gynecological symptoms you should never ignore to seek help early and preserve gynecological health. 

1. Abnormal bleeding

Any abnormal bleeding should be checked by your gynecologist. Bleeding or spotting between periods, bleeding after sex, or post-menopausal bleeding might be a symptom of cervical or uterine cancer. But it can indicate other gynecological problems as well. If you experience abnormal bleeding, be sure to schedule an appointment in the gynecology clinic as soon as possible.

2. Irregular menstrual cycle

Many things can contribute to irregular periods. The common causes of an irregular period include hormonal imbalance, polycystic ovary syndrome, and uterine fibroids. Switching to other birth control methods or experiencing severe stress can also cause an irregular menstrual cycle. Make sure to consult your doctor if you have had regular periods and pattern changes.

3. Abnormal pelvic pain

All of us are used to a little pelvic pain as women, but after the age of 45, abdominal discomfort might be an indication of ovarian cancer and should be checked by a doctor. Acute and severe lower abdomen pain in younger women can have a variety of reasons. They can involve serious issues such as ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, or endometriosis. It can also be caused by an infection or another gynecological disease and should be evaluated by a doctor.

4. Persistent bloating

All of us experience bloating from time to time, especially at specific times of the month. But if you feel bloated all the time or have belly distention (where the tummy is enlarged), this might be a sign of ovarian cancer. Some women who have these symptoms report that they can't fit into their trousers, although they haven't gained any weight. In fact, they may be even losing weight but gain belly volume. 

5. Bumps and ulcers

Gynecological problems often cause lumps, bumps, or ulcers in the genital area. They are easily noticeable without searching and you may notice them when going to the bathroom or performing normal activities like walking and sitting. They can be a symptom of vaginal infection and sexually transmitted disease. If you experience vaginal bumps or ulcers that don’t clear for several days, make an appointment with a gynecologist. 

6. Urinary leakage

Urinary leakage or incontinence is a common issue in women. Over 40% of women experience urinary incontinence, particularly after childbirth and menopause. Physical therapy and pelvic floor exercises are usually used to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and treat urinary leakage. Regular exercising can also make a significant difference.

7. Itching

Persistent itching in your vaginal area might be an indication of several health problems. While itching is a common sign of yeast infection, it could also be a precursor to valvular cancer. Valvular cancer also causes symptoms like soreness, pain, or a burning feeling. Besides, itching down there can indicate sexually transmitted diseases, skin diseases(dermatitis, psoriasis), or menopause. Be sure to consult a gynecologist if you experience persistent vaginal itching. 

8. Unusual vaginal discharge

Each woman experiences some vaginal discharge, which is normal, especially at the beginning or end of your menstrual cycle. But certain types of discharge might suggest an underlying gynecological problem. The abnormal discharge might be yellow or green in color, chunky in texture, or bad-smelling. Such discharges can indicate sexually transmitted diseases, yeast infections, or pelvic inflammatory disease.