Spotlight on pelvic pain – fibroids, endometriosis, and other causes

Pelvic pain isn’t something most people enjoy talking about, but for many women, it’s a regular feature of daily life. Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp cramps, or an uncomfortable bloated feeling that won’t go away, persistent pelvic pain deserves attention.

With Fibroids Awareness Month putting women’s pelvic health in the spotlight, now is a good time to explore two of the most common underlying causes, fibroids and endometriosis as well as other conditions that may be contributing to pelvic discomfort.

Understanding fibroids and endometriosis

Fibroids and endometriosis are both common gynaecological conditions. However, they often go undiagnosed for years because their symptoms can be vague; sometimes even being mistaken for ‘normal’ period issues.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the womb. Around 2 in 3 women will develop a fibroid, usually before the age of 50. They can vary in size, from the size of a pea and symptomless, to the size of a melon. Sometimes, fibroids can cause heavier periods, pressure in the lower abdomen, pain during sex, or a constant urge to urinate.

Endometriosis, meanwhile, happens when tissue similar to the womb lining starts growing in other places, like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic wall. Each month, that tissue behaves like the lining of the womb, breaking down and bleeding. However, because it has nowhere to go, it can lead to inflammation, scarring, and severe pain, particularly around your period. Many women also experience fatigue, pain during bowel movements or sex, and fertility issues.

As symptoms can be similar, diagnosis can take time. In many cases, a combination of pelvic exams, ultrasounds or MRIs, and sometimes a laparoscopy (a minor surgical procedure to look inside the pelvis) is needed. It may sound daunting, but getting answers is the first step towards feeling better.

New treatment options for pelvic conditions

Treatment options for these conditions are improving all the time. For fibroids, in particular, there’s been a promising recent development. Last year, NICE published an article regarding the approval of a new oral treatment designed to help women manage moderate to severe fibroid symptoms like heavy bleeding, without the need for surgery.

This treatment works by controlling hormone levels that influence fibroid growth. For many women, it offers an effective and far less invasive alternative to traditional surgical options.

For endometriosis, treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and whether fertility is a concern. Hormone therapy is often the first step, helping to reduce pain and slow the growth of endometrial tissue.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove lesions and reduce discomfort. However, support doesn’t stop at prescriptions or procedures. Diet, stress, and general wellbeing can all play a role in how manageable symptoms feel from month to month.

At EssexPrivateGP, we take a personalised approach. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, support with fertility, or simply want clarity around your symptoms, we’ll help you explore the most suitable path forward.

Here to help with a diagnosis and treatment plan

There’s a big difference between the occasional cramp and pain that disrupts your routine or affects your quality of life. If you’re missing work, cancelling plans, avoiding certain activities, or just feeling worried, it’s time to get things checked. Sometimes, symptoms aren’t caused by fibroids or endometriosis at all. Ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even muscle tension can all present in similar ways.

At EssexPrivateGP, we offer confidential, one-to-one appointments. If tests are needed, we’ll talk you through them clearly, and if onward referral is required, we’ll help coordinate the next steps. You don’t need to have all the answers before you come in, that’s what we’re here for.

If you’ve been living with pelvic pain, book an appointment with EssexPrivateGP.