Why am I Experiencing Pelvic Pain After My Period?

It’s common to have cramps or discomfort during your period, but what if the pain continues even after your bleeding stops? Persistent pelvic pain after menstruation isn’t something to ignore. It can sometimes be harmless, but in other cases, it may signal an underlying gynaecological condition that needs attention.

Understanding what’s normal — and when to see a doctor — can help you get to the root of the problem and find relief.

What is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort felt in the lower abdomen, below the belly button. It may be dull and persistent, or sharp and sudden. Some women feel it continuously, while others notice it only at certain times in their cycle.

If pelvic pain continues after your period ends or occurs regularly each month, it’s important to find out why.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain after Your Period

1. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of post-period pelvic pain. It occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside it — on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or bowel. This tissue thickens and bleeds each month like the uterine lining, but with no way to exit the body, it causes inflammation and pain.

Typical symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain that lasts before and after periods
• Pain during sex
• Pain when passing urine or stool
• Fertility difficulties

Because endometriosis often mimics other conditions, diagnosis can take time. An ultrasound scan is a good first step to assess your reproductive organs.

2. Ovarian Cysts

Functional ovarian cysts are common and usually harmless, but if they grow larger, rupture, or twist, they can cause pelvic discomfort that lingers after your period.

Symptoms can include:

• Sharp or one-sided pelvic pain
• Bloating or fullness in the abdomen
• Irregular bleeding or spotting
• Pain during intercourse

3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. It may lead to scarring if untreated.

Typical signs:

• Lower abdominal pain that persists beyond your period
• Abnormal discharge with an unpleasant smell
• Fever or feeling unwell
• Pain during sex or urination

If you suspect PID, prompt antibiotic treatment can prevent long-term complications such as infertility.

4. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when the lining of the womb grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. It can cause heavy periods, cramping, and lingering pain afterwards. Women in their 30s and 40s are most commonly affected.

5. Fibroids

Fibroids are benign growths in or on the uterus that can cause pressure, pain, or heavy bleeding. Some women feel ongoing pelvic discomfort even after menstruation ends.

Symptoms include:

• Prolonged or heavy periods
• Pelvic pressure or bloating
• Back or leg pain
• Frequent urination

If you’re experiencing ongoing pelvic pain, a gynaecology consultation and pelvic ultrasound scan can identify fibroids, cysts, or other causes quickly and accurately.

When It Might be Something Else

Not all pelvic pain is related to the reproductive organs. Other potential causes include:

• Digestive issues: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or food sensitivities.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Can cause burning, pain, and pressure in the lower abdomen.
• Muscle or nerve pain: Sometimes linked to posture or pelvic floor tension.

How Pelvic Pain is Diagnosed

Your gynaecologist will usually start with a full medical history and examination. They may recommend:

• Ultrasound scan: To check for ovarian cysts, fibroids, or adenomyosis.
• Cervical swabs: To rule out infection.
• Blood tests: To check hormone balance and inflammatory markers.
• MRI or laparoscopy: For detailed assessment if endometriosis or deeper pathology is suspected.

Managing Pelvic Pain

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but options may include:

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
• Hormonal therapy such as the pill or coil to control endometriosis or adenomyosis symptoms
• Antibiotics for infection
• Surgery to remove cysts or fibroids if necessary
• Lifestyle changes like stress management, gentle exercise, and dietary adjustments

When to Seek Help

You should see a gynaecologist if:

• Pelvic pain lasts longer than a few days after your period
• It’s severe enough to interfere with daily life
• You experience fever, unusual discharge, or heavy bleeding
• You’re worried about fertility or cycle changes

Final Thoughts

Occasional mild cramps after your period may be nothing to worry about, but ongoing or worsening pelvic pain is not something you should ignore. The cause can range from simple hormonal changes to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.

For expert diagnosis and personalised treatment

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