Why do I have pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain could certainly be a sign of an abnormal issue with your reproductive organs. But you also have multiple connective tissues, digestive organs, and urinary tract components (to name a few) that could be causing your discomfort.
Acute or chronic pelvic pain could be linked to:
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic adhesions
- Interstitial cystitis
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STIs or STDs)
One of the most common causes of pelvic pain is endometriosis, a condition that leads to the growth of endometrial tissue outside of your uterus.
Since your case of pelvic pain could be caused by a serious medical condition that warrants treatment, it’s important to have a comprehensive evaluation as soon as possible.
When should I see a doctor for pelvic pain?
The highly skilled team at Signature Women’s Healthcare encourages you to come in anytime you’re experiencing pelvic discomfort that comes on suddenly, doesn’t resolve or improve within a few days, or seems different from normal menstrual cramps. It’s particularly important to have a pelvic pain evaluation if your discomfort is associated with:
- Fever
- Heavy bleeding
- Infertility issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Burning while urinating
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Discomfort during bowel movements
- Spotting between periods or after menopause
With on-site ultrasound imaging available at Signature Women’s Healthcare and lab services available, you can receive a fast diagnosis so you can get started on treatment right away.
How is pelvic pain treated?
Treating pelvic pain depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. Your pelvic pain treatment plan can include:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists and antagonists to lower estrogen
- Pain-relieving medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills to regulate your periods
- Progestin therapy to stop periods
The expert OB/GYNs at Signature Women’s Healthcare also provide minimally invasive surgery for both diagnostic and treatment purposes.
For instance, if you have endometriosis that is suspected to be inhibiting your ability to become pregnant, your OB/GYN can use a laparoscope to view your reproductive organs and remove the abnormal growths during an outpatient procedure.
Before suffering from pelvic pain another day, schedule an exam at Signature Women’s Healthcare. Click on the online scheduler or call the office nearest you directly.
