Understanding Pelvic Pain

If you suffer from pelvic pain, you’re not alone. Pelvic pain is a very common reason women schedule a visit with their gynecologist.

Depending on why you have pelvic pain, the feeling can vary. Some women experience a dull pain that spreads across their pelvis. Others note a sharp, stabbing pain that is localized to one area of their pelvic region. 

Since you can’t see what’s causing it, it can be hard to know if your pain is a fleeting feeling or the symptom of a more serious condition. Because pelvic pain can stem from many things, it’s important to seek medical help if you’re struggling with chronic pelvic pain. 

Board-certified OB/GYN Asia Mohsin, MD, at Progressive Women’s Health in Friendswood, Texas, has the experience and expertise needed to diagnose the root cause of your pelvic pain, so you can get effective treatment and alleviate your pain.

What’s causing my pelvic pain?

Your pelvic region is a busy area. It contains connective tissues, muscles, reproductive organs, your urinary system, and part of your digestive system. Because there are so many components, it can be difficult to identify the root cause of pain. Some potential causes of pelvic pain include:

• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic adhesions
• Interstitial cystitis
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Urinary tract infections
• Irritable bowel syndrome 
• Pelvic inflammatory disease 
• Sexually transmitted infections or diseases 
• Adenomyosis

One of the biggest troubles with pelvic pain is that it can come from many sources. In fact, it’s because of this that pelvic pain is so frequently misdiagnosed. That’s why seeing an expert in women’s health, such as Dr. Mohsin, is so important. 

How is the cause of pelvic pain diagnosed?

Identifying the cause of your pelvic pain begins by explaining your symptoms to Dr. Mohsin. In most cases, a comprehensive pelvic exam follows. 

Dr. Mohsin may make a preliminary diagnosis based on your symptoms and exam, or she may order or perform some of the following tests or examinations to pinpoint the cause of your pain:

• Lab work to check your hormone levels
• Ultrasound imaging study
• Minimally invasive hysteroscopy
• Minimally invasive laparoscopy

Once Dr. Mohsin understands the root cause of your pelvic pain, she’ll recommend a treatment plan customized for your needs.

What are the treatments for pelvic pain?

The recommended treatment for pelvic pain depends on its cause. In most cases, Dr. Mohsin typically begins with the most conservative treatments. Some of these options include oral pain relievers, hormone therapy, antidepressant medications, and oral contraceptives. 

If your pain doesn’t respond to these less invasive treatments, or if the underlying cause of your pain involves scar tissue or fibroids, Dr. Mohsin may recommend a surgical option, such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. 

For women with pelvic pain that doesn’t respond to any other treatment, a full hysterectomy may be an option for eliminating pain.  

To get to the bottom of your pelvic pain, book an appointment online or over the phone with Progressive Women’s Health today. We also offer telemedicine appointments.