Aside from irritable bowel syndrome, fibro sufferers often present other disorders that affect the lower abdominal and pelvic areas.

Interstitial Cystitis

People who have fibromyalgia are more likely to have interstitial cystitis, a chronic hyperactivity of the bladder that can cause discomfort and pain in the bladder and surrounding pelvic region. If you have interstitial cystitis, you may experience an increased need to urinate, and it may feel urgent. In severe cases, some people urinate as many as sixty times a day. Interstitial cystitis can also cause pain in the pelvic region, especially during sexual intercourse and/or menstruation.

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort of the vulva, or external female genitalia. Women may experience burning, stinging, irritation, or rawness, but there is no infection or skin disease. The pain may be constant or intermittent.

Vulvodynia can make it hard for women to engage in sexual activity. It can also interfere with their daily functioning and may cause depression. Again, myofascial trigger points that are a part of chronic myofascial pain are often associated with vulvodynia.

Painful Periods and PMS

It's not unusual for healthy women to battle monthly cramps and pain during their periods. And in the days leading up to their periods, they may suffer from premenstrual syndrome, a constellation of symptoms that includes moodiness, bloating, and water retention. In women with fibromyalgia, your monthly period may become even more painful. You may experience more cramps, irregular blood flow, blood clots, or larger than normal blood flow. In addition, your PMS symptoms may become intensified.