Pelvic Pain

What causes pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain may come from the reproductive organs, urinary tract, digestive system, pelvic floor muscles, or other structures in the lower abdomen.

Possible gynecologic causes include:

• Menstrual cramps
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Adenomyosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Pregnancy-related conditions
• Pelvic floor dysfunction

Your provider may also consider urinary, digestive, or musculoskeletal conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

How is pelvic pain evaluated?

Your provider will ask about the location, timing, severity, and pattern of your pain, along with any menstrual, urinary, digestive, sexual, or pregnancy-related symptoms.

Depending on your symptoms, evaluation may include:

• A physical or pelvic examination
• A pregnancy test
• Blood or urine testing
• Testing for infection
• Pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound
• Additional imaging or procedures when appropriate

How is pelvic pain treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medication
• Antibiotics for an infection
• Hormonal medication
• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Lifestyle or activity modifications
• Treatment of an underlying urinary or digestive condition
• Minimally invasive surgery when appropriate

Your provider will develop a treatment plan based on your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history, and pregnancy goals.

Schedule a pelvic pain evaluation

Persistent or severe pelvic pain should not be ignored.

Call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or request an appointment online to schedule a pelvic pain consultation.