Causes and Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain

There are many causes of pelvic pain in women. Pelvic pain is considered to be chronic if it lasts longer than six months. The pain can be intermittent, or constantly ongoing. For many, the pain follows a cycle or pattern, appearing only during menstruation or when urinating, eating, or having sex.

Chronic pelvic pain can be caused by the reproductive organs, urinary organs, or bowels. Unfortunately, there are times when no cause can be identified.

Diagnosing Pelvic Pain

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, make an appointment to see us. Bring questions and concerns you may have. Some women find it helpful to take notes documenting their pain, when and where it occurs, how it feels, and what, if anything, makes it feel better. We will go over your personal and medical history, conduct a physical and pelvic exam, and may recommend imaging tests such as:

Ultrasound
Colonoscopy
Laparoscopy – inserting a small camera through a tiny incision to view the internal organs
Cystoscopy – using a thin, lensed tube to look inside the urethra or bladder
Sigmoidoscopy – inserting a small camera on the tip of a tube to view the rectum and lower portion of the intestines

If your OB-GYN believes your pain is caused by urinary or digestive track problems, you may be referred to a urogynecologist or gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment.

How is Pelvic Pain Treated?

Treatment for pelvic pain depends upon the particular diagnosis. Treatments might range from behavioral changes to surgery.

Strengthening your body

Improving your posture and getting regular exercise may help relieve certain types of pelvic pain. Your doctor will be able to instruct you if you’re not sure where to begin.

Changes to your diet

Many women suffering from pelvic pain during their periods (dysmenorrhea) find that adding magnesium and vitamin B1 eases the discomfort.

Pain relieving medication

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often recommended to treat pelvic pain. You can buy NSAIDs over-the-counter (ibuprofen, Aleve, Excedrin) or your doctor can prescribe prescription-strength NSAIDs to you depending on your pain.

Physical therapy

Some therapies, like acupuncture and acupressure, have been helpful in relieving chronic pelvic pain. You might also try biofeedback, a type of therapy that trains you to monitor and relax your body using a special machine.

Surgery

Although invasive techniques are usually performed as a last resort, pelvic pain can be treated by severing or destroying certain nerves that send pain signals from your organs to your brain.