Quick answer
What could pelvic pain mean?
Pelvic pain is pain felt in the lower part of the tummy, and it has many possible causes in both women and men. See a GP if pelvic pain keeps coming back. Sudden severe pain with fever, fainting or any possibility of pregnancy needs emergency care — call 999 or go to A&E.
Understanding pelvic pain
Pelvic pain is pain felt in the lower part of the tummy, and it affects both women and men. The pattern of the pain, together with causes specific to each sex, guides how doctors assess it. Sudden severe pelvic pain is treated as an emergency until a serious cause has been ruled out.
Common causes of pelvic pain
Common causes include endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and appendicitis. In women of childbearing age, an ectopic pregnancy must always be considered, because it is a medical emergency.
Self-care for pelvic pain
Mild period pain can often be eased with heat and simple pain relief, if these are suitable for you. Keeping track of your menstrual cycle helps you and your GP spot any pattern to the pain.
When to see a GP about pelvic pain
See a GP if pelvic pain is persistent or getting worse. Sudden severe pelvic pain is an emergency — call 999 or go to A&E, especially if you also have a high fever, feel faint or could be pregnant.
Common questions about pelvic pain
- What causes pelvic pain in women?
- Common causes of pelvic pain in women include period pain, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts and urinary tract infections. Pregnancy must always be considered in women of childbearing age.
- What is endometriosis?
- Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. It typically causes cyclical pelvic pain and heavy periods.
- What causes pelvic pain in men?
- In men, pelvic pain can be caused by prostatitis, hernias and bladder conditions. See a GP if the pain is persistent or keeps coming back.
- What are the emergency warning signs with pelvic pain?
- Sudden severe pelvic pain, shoulder tip pain during pregnancy and a high fever are all emergency warning signs. Call 999 or go to A&E if any of these occur.