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Ultrasound for Pelvic Pain

Wednesday 28 February 2018, 8:22PM

By Beckie Wright

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Experiencing pelvic pain is common amongst women. It is often associated with the function of the reproductive system – the so called “ovulation pain”. However, pelvic pain can sometimes indicate a serious problem that requires medical attention. There are many abnormalities that may cause pelvic pain, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, adenomyosis, infection, and appendicitis.

Ovulation pain occurs in the mid-cycle and is called "Mittelschmerz" (middle pain). Some women develop a sharp pain when the egg is released. The pain may be on a different side each month, depending on which ovary releases the egg. This pain only lasts a few hours but some women find it very severe.

Ovarian cysts are common in women of reproductive age.  There are various types of ovarian cysts and most heal on their own. Nevertheless, in some cases, bleeding, rupture or torsion can occur and would require immediate treatment. Ovarian cysts are diagnosed with the pelvic ultrasound, which can give a good indication of the seriousness of the situation and provide information needed for the correct treatment.

Some cysts are associated with endometriosis. The symptoms include painful bleeding into the ovary, painful periods, premenstrual spotting, pain during intercourse, or ovulation pain.  It affects 1 in 5 women, but half of those women won’t have any symptoms. Ultrasound is an effective way to diagnose endometriosis and the complications associated with it.

Other causes of pelvic pain that require an ultrasound examination include adenomyosis, infection, and appendicitis. Adenomyosis is a condition in which the lining layer of the uterus (endometrium) grows into the muscular layer of the uterus. It can be related to endometriosis as the two conditions often co-exist.

Pelvic infections are often caused by chlamydia and/or gonorrhoea, but can also be caused by other bacteria. Symptoms include sever pain and a fever, however there may not be any symptoms at all. Appendicitis is another cause of pelvic pain, which requires a physical examination, blood test, urine test, and imaging tests.

If you are experiencing pelvic pain or you are concerned about hidden symptoms, ask your doctor for an ultrasound referral.  Eastmed Radiology specialists perform abdominal and pelvic ultrasound scans with accurate diagnosis and great patient care.