Painful Periods, Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain

Painful menstrual periods are common, but severe pain that interferes with daily activities is not something you should simply have to "live with."

Pelvic pain can occur for many reasons. Some of the more common causes include:

• Endometriosis
• Adenomyosis
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
• Painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal conditions
• Pelvic adhesions (scar tissue)
• Vulvodynia and other vulvar pain disorders
• Musculoskeletal conditions involving the back, hips, or pelvic floor

Sometimes pelvic pain is related to a single condition, while in other cases multiple factors may contribute to symptoms. Understanding the cause of your pain can help guide treatment and improve quality of life.

The resources below provide information about painful periods, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, diagnosis, treatment options, fertility considerations, and support resources. I hope these materials help you better understand your symptoms and the options available to you.

Experiencing Painful Periods?  Start Here

• Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods (ACOG FAQ)

• Period Pain (Informed Health)

• Recommended Videos:

  • Are Painful Periods Normal? (Jennifer Lincoln, MD)

  • Causes of Painful Periods (Natalie Crawford, MD)

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