What is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is discomfort in the lower abdomen, between the hips. It can come on suddenly or develop over time and may last for a short period or continue for months. Because many organs are located in this area, pelvic pain can have a wide range of causes.

Pelvic pain can be linked to many conditions, including:

• Infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease or urinary tract infections
• Gynecologic conditions like endometriosis or fibroids
• Ovarian cysts or pregnancy-related complications
• Digestive issues such as appendicitis or bowel problems
• Muscle or nerve-related pain
• Scar tissue from past surgeries

In some cases, no clear cause is found, especially with long-lasting pain.

Symptoms

Pelvic pain can feel different from person to person. It may be mild and occasional or severe and ongoing.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, dull, or cramping pain
• Pain that comes and goes or stays constant
• Discomfort during periods, urination, or sexual activity
• Pain that worsens with movement or pressure
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen

How is it diagnosed?

Your provider will start by asking detailed questions about your symptoms, including when the pain began and what makes it better or worse. A physical and pelvic exam is usually part of the evaluation.

To better understand the cause, your provider may recommend:

• Blood or urine tests
• Pregnancy testing
• Imaging such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
• Minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy

Additional tests may be used if digestive or urinary conditions are suspected.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on what is causing the pain. Many people find relief with non-surgical options.

Common treatments include:

• Anti-inflammatory or pain-relief medications
• Antibiotics for infections
• Hormonal therapies, such as birth control
• Physical therapy to relax pelvic muscles
• Injections to target pain areas
• Nerve-related medications
• Surgical procedures to treat underlying conditions

For chronic pelvic pain, a combination of treatments, including counseling or pain management strategies, may provide the best results.