pain symptoms

Pain is a subjective assessment and each woman’s pain tolerance or threshold is different. For this reason one definition of pain cannot be generalized to all women. Each woman must recognize what is normal or abnormal for her and inform her healthcare provider accordingly.

• cramps
• painful intercourse
• pelvic pain
• sensation of a mass

cramps

For many women, menstrual cramps are part of the monthly cycle. Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining. As this process occurs, the lining of the uterus produces a hormone called prostaglandin. This hormone causes the uterus to contract, which can be painful. Drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are anti-prostaglandins, which is why they provide some relief from menstrual pain. Questions about the severity of menstrual cramps are part of the infertility work-up. If the pain is so severe that it interrupts your daily routine, an evaluation is warranted.

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painful intercourse

Pain is a subjective assessment and may be sharp or dull or chronic or intermittent. If a woman experiences pain during intercourse, a condition called dyspareunia, it may indicate either endometriosis or fibroid tumors.

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pelvic pain

Pain is subjective, but pelvic pain refers to any sort of discomfort in the pelvic area that is not the direct result of a physical injury. Actually, even if it is the result of a physical injury a healthcare provider should be consulted.

Any pain combined with a fever can be indicative of infection and should be evaluated promptly.

Pelvic pain may indicate the following infertility problems:

• Endometriosis
• Fibroid tumor
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Uterine damage due to IUDs
• Uterine/vaginal birth defects

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sensation of a mass

It is very difficult to feel any sort of mass around the ovaries or uterus. However, thin women may feel or see a slight bulge in the lower abdominal area. It is possible that intercourse may be uncomfortable and menstrual periods painful. Feeling fuller may also occur. These symptoms may be caused by fibroid tumors -- non-cancerous growths inside or outside the uterus that can affect fertility. Contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

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