Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is a common concern among women and can range from occasional discomfort to chronic, debilitating pain. It may be linked to your reproductive system, urinary tract, digestive organs, or pelvic floor muscles, making an accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment.

Whether your pain is sharp or dull, constant or intermittent, our team is here to listen, evaluate, and help you find lasting relief.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis. It can occur suddenly (acute) or last for months (chronic), and may be linked to menstruation, sexual activity, urination, bowel movements, or no specific trigger at all.

Pain may be described as:

  • Cramping or aching
  • Pressure or heaviness
  • Sharp or stabbing
  • Burning or radiating into the back, legs, or groin area

The nature, timing, and triggers of your symptoms can help narrow down the cause.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Gynecologic causes:

  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
  • Adenomyosis
  • Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
  • Ectopic pregnancy (emergency)

Urinary causes:

  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)
  • Interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome)

Digestive causes:

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Constipation or bowel obstruction
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal causes:

  • Pelvic floor dysfunction or tightness
  • Scar tissue or adhesions from prior surgery (including cesarean section)
  • Hernia or nerve compression

In some cases, pelvic pain may be linked to emotional stress or trauma, which can amplify physical symptoms.

When to See a Provider

You should schedule a visit if you:

  • Experience persistent or worsening pelvic pain that has gone unrelieved with medication
  • Have pain with intercourse, periods, or bowel movements
  • Notice changes in your cycle or discharge
  • Develop pain with fever, nausea, or abnormal bleeding
  • Are unable to carry out daily activities due to discomfort

If your pelvic pain is sudden and severe (especially with dizziness, bleeding, or fever), seek immediate medical care.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of pelvic pain starts with a thorough medical history and symptom review. Your provider may recommend:

  • Pelvic exam to check for tenderness, masses, or signs of infection
  • Urinalysis or blood work to detect infection or inflammation
  • Pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures
  • STI testing if an infection is suspected
  • MRI or CT scan for further evaluation
  • Laparoscopy (a minimally invasive procedure) if endometriosis or adhesions are suspected and not visible on imaging

We take a thoughtful, step-by-step approach to find the root cause of your pain.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and how much the pain is affecting your life.

Medical treatment:

  • Pain relievers (NSAIDs) for inflammation or menstrual cramps
  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Hormonal birth control to manage endometriosis, fibroids, or menstrual pain
  • Bladder treatments or dietary changes for interstitial cystitis or IBS

Lifestyle and non-medical support:

  • Pelvic floor physical therapy
  • Stress management or mental health support
  • Nutritional counseling (If pain is weight related)
  • Heat therapy or gentle exercise (such as yoga and meditation)

Procedures or surgery:

  • Laparoscopic removal of endometriosis, cysts, or fibroids
  • Hysteroscopy for intrauterine concerns
  • Adhesiolysis (removal of scar tissue) if adhesions are found

We’ll work closely with you to create a personalized care plan and address both the physical and emotional impact of chronic pelvic pain.

Don’t Ignore Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain isn’t something you just have to “deal with.” If it’s affecting your daily life, sleep, mood, or relationships, there is help.

Schedule a consultation today to begin a thorough evaluation and take the first step toward relief.