What Are the Potential Causes of Concurrent Pelvic and Perineal Pain, and When Should I See a Doctor?

There are many reasons you might feel pain in both your pelvic area and around your perineum (the area between your legs). Sometimes, the pain comes from the nerves—when they are irritated or pinched, it can lead to what is called neuropathic pain. This pain might be related to conditions in the pelvis, like muscle tension or pelvic floor dysfunction. In some cases, the pain is idiopathic, which means doctors do not know exactly why it happens, even after careful investigation. Other times, the pain could be referred from a nearby organ, such as the prostate in men or the bladder in women, meaning that an issue in one place causes pain in another. It is important to see a doctor if the pain is very strong, lasts more than a few weeks, or if it comes with other symptoms like fever, trouble urinating, or changes in bowel habits. A healthcare provider can help find the cause and work with you on the best treatment plan.