Pelvic Pain

Many women experience pelvic pain at some point in their lives. It can take on many characteristics – either sharp or dull, and occurring sporadically, cyclically, or chronically. Often, it is non-threatening and associated with menstrual cramps or a harmless ovarian cyst. But for some, pelvic pain can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Examples of some causes of pelvic pain include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Poly-cystic ovarian syndrome
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
• Ovarian cancer

For many women, an exam will reveal that pelvic pain is not related to the reproductive organs, but instead a complication or disease of the digestive or urinary tract. Urinary tract infections, kidney stones and irritable bowel syndrome are just some of the potential causes of pelvic pain outside the reproductive system.

When to Seek Treatment for Pelvic Pain

It is important to make an appointment with Dr. Almaguer if you experience chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or longer, or if you suddenly begin experiencing sharp or severe pain in your abdomen. He may conduct various screenings and a pelvic exam to help pinpoint the source of your pain. This may include an ultrasound or other diagnostic tests to either rule out or confirm the source of pain. Keep in mind that it is of utmost importance that you are open and honest about your symptoms, their frequency, and your family’s medical history, as these can all be clues in helping Dr. Almaguer identify the cause of your pelvic pain.
Treatment options vary according to your diagnosis. In many women, it is not possible to identify the source of pelvic pain. If your pain persists without diagnosis, you may be able to manage your discomfort with a combination of physical therapy, lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, alternative therapies, medications, or even surgery. Talk with Dr. Almaguer about which methods are right for you.