When should I seek medical evaluation of pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain can be associated with ovulation or menstruation, and is usually alleviated with over-the-counter medications and rest. But pelvic pain that shows up regularly and interferes with daily activity deserves evaluation, even if associated with your menstrual cycle.
Pelvic pain doesn’t have to be constant. It may show up only when you urinate or have sex, for example. It may also linger as a dull and aching sensation. In all of these cases, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment at Memorial Women’s Specialists for evaluation.
You should see a medical specialist right away if your pelvic pain is accompanied by:
- Irregular discharge
- Unusual uterine bleeding or spotting
- Bloating and gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Fever
If you notice pelvic pain as menstrual cramps that are unusually severe, this should be also evaluated.
What causes pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain doesn’t have one specific cause. A number of conditions or diseases may be responsible, including:
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- UTIs
- Miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
In rare cases, advanced stages of ovarian and uterine cancer cause pelvic pain.
How is pelvic pain evaluated?
During your evaluations, Memorial Women’s Specialists reviews any symptoms as well as your personal and family medical history. They’ll complete a pelvic exam to look for any abnormalities. You may also undergo screening tests, such as blood and urine tests.
Memorial Women’s Specialists may have you undergo an in-house ultrasound to check for fibroids, scar tissue, or cysts that may be causing your pain.
If you have irregular bleeding along with pelvic pain they may recommend you undergo a hysteroscopy, a procedure that allows them to look inside your uterus and remove any polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue.
How is pelvic pain treated?
Treatment for pelvic pain varies widely as it depends on the determined cause of your pain. If you have an STD or UTI, antibiotics are often prescribed to clear up the infection.
For some cases of endometriosis or uterine fibroids, pain medications or hormonal treatments can ease your symptoms. When these conservative treatments aren’t successful, minimally invasive surgery may be required.
Other causes of pelvic pain may be resolved with hormonal birth control, physical therapy, or other treatments.
Call Memorial Women’s Specialists or book an appointment online today to have your pelvic pain evaluated and treated.
