Enlarged or poorly functioning veins in the pelvis can cause chronic lower abdominal pain, often worse after prolonged standing, around menstruation or after sex. Other causes of pelvic pain must be carefully ruled out before treatment of the veins is considered.
- A dull, aching pain low in the abdomen or pelvis that may last longer than six months.
- Pain that worsens later in the day, with prolonged standing or after physical exertion.
- For a few weeks, record when pain occurs and how it relates to standing, menstruation, sex, passing urine and bowel movements.
- Alternate prolonged standing with walking, sitting or lying down briefly if this clearly reduces symptoms.
- Make an appointment for pelvic pain that lasts for weeks, recurs or affects work, sleep or sex.
- For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.
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General information, not personal medical advice
This article has been carefully prepared but may contain errors or become outdated as medical knowledge changes. It does not replace diagnosis, examination or treatment by your own GP. Always discuss personal questions and starting, stopping or changing medicines or treatments with your own GP.
For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912. For urgent care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
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