Pelvic Pain

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain affects the area between the belly button and the hips. While men can experience discomfort in this region, women are more likely to have pelvic pain. This uncomfortable feeling can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). It may cause constant pain or discomfort that comes and goes.

Understanding the underlying cause of pelvic pain is crucial to treating it effectively. At Roswell ObGyn, LLC, the team works with you to uncover the cause of your pain and determine the most effective treatment.

What does pelvic pain feel like?

Pelvic pain can feel different depending on the cause and location. You may describe your pain as the following:

• Sharp
• Shooting
• Burning
• Dull ache
• Heavy pressure

Some women experience worsening pain during specific activities, such as sex, urination, menstruation, or bowel movements, while others experience constant discomfort.

What causes pelvic pain?

Many reproductive, digestive, and musculoskeletal conditions can cause pelvic pain, including:

• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Abnormal bleeding
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Constipation
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Interstitial cystitis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Menstrual cramps
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Pregnancy can also cause pelvic pain. As your uterus grows and your baby develops, it puts pressure on your pelvic floor muscles and ligaments.

How do doctors diagnose pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is a complex condition that often requires various tests to accurately diagnose. After reviewing your medical history and performing a pelvic exam to view your uterus, ovaries, cervix, and surrounding structures, the Roswell ObGyn, LLC team may order imaging scans, such as ultrasound, X-rays, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your OB/GYN may also order blood work and urine tests. The team may perform a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure to further investigate your symptoms.

What are the treatments for pelvic pain?

Once the team determines the underlying cause of your pain, they can develop an individualized treatment plan. Many treatments can effectively relieve pelvic pain, such as:

• Hormone therapy
• Muscle relaxers
• Birth control 
• Laparoscopic surgery
• Minimally invasive procedures
• Physical therapy
• Dietary changes
• Lifestyle modifications
• Endometrial ablation
• Antidepressants

Don’t let pelvic pain diminish your quality of life. As your partner in health care, the team at Roswell ObGyn, LLC can determine the best combination of treatments to relieve your pain and improve your well-being. Call the office today or request an appointment online.