Pelvic Pain

When should I seek medical care for pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain can indicate problems in your reproductive, urinary, or gastrointestinal systems. It presents as discomfort in your lower belly, abdomen, and pelvis. Pain can vary from dull to sharp. It may come and go or be constant. You may find it radiates to your lower back, thighs, or buttocks.

It may be constant, or you may notice the pain only while urinating or having sexual intercourse. It’s important to seek medical attention if it’s accompanied by:

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Worsening menstrual cramps
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Bloating and gas
• Fever
• Positive pregnancy test
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

What are the causes of pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Endometriosis
• Miscarriage
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Menstrual cramps or ovulation pain
• Infections of the urinary tract
• Uterine fibroids
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Musculoskeletal issues

How is pelvic pain evaluated?

After a review of your symptoms and medical history, you undergo a pelvic exam to look for abnormalities that may be causing your pain. Blood and urine tests can check for bladder or urinary tract infections as well as sexually transmitted infections.

An ultrasound, offered in our office, may also be needed, occasionally with other imaging modalities such as CT or  MRI. These tests can detect pregnancy, fibroids, endometriosis, or cysts that may be causing your pain.

What is the treatment for pelvic pain?

The doctors at OBGYN Westside, PLLC, have the experience and training to develop a treatment plan based on what they discover during their evaluation. 

For example, many treatment options are available for fibroids or cysts, including watchful waiting, medication, or in rare cases, minimally invasive and sometimes even open surgery to have them removed. 

Hormone treatment can sometimes alleviate pain associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual cramping, or endometriosis. Oral contraceptives, IUDs, and other hormonal methods are commonly prescribed to treat these symptoms.

The treatment of pelvic pain is highly individualized based on the underlying reason and the findings encountered during the evaluation. 

The GYNs at OBGYN Westside offer a comprehensive treatment plan that may include one or more of the available approaches — hormonal treatment, physical therapy, surgery or sometimes acupuncture.   

To have your pelvic pain evaluated and treated, call OBGYN Westside, or book an appointment using the online tool.

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