Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is a common yet complex issue that affects many women, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, life-interrupting pain. Francisco Dueno, MD, at Southside OB/GYN, PC in Richmond Hill, Georgia, understands the various causes, including hormonal changes, infections, or underlying conditions like fibroids and endometriosis. Take the first step toward finding relief and restoring your quality of life. Book an appointment today by phone or online. Telehealth is also available.

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is discomfort or pain felt in your lower abdomen, below your belly button. It can be sharp, dull, intermittent, or constant and may occur suddenly or develop gradually over time.

Pelvic pain can be a symptom of various underlying conditions and may affect your daily activities, sexual health, and overall well-being.

What causes pelvic pain?

Several conditions can contribute to pelvic pain, including:

• Fibroids – noncancerous growths in your uterus that can cause pressure, heavy bleeding, and discomfort
• Ovarian cysts – fluid-filled sacs on your ovaries that may cause pain if they rupture or grow large
• Pelvic floor disorders – weakness or dysfunction of your pelvic muscles leading to pain, discomfort, or bladder and bowel issues
• Endometriosis – a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside your uterus, causing severe pain, especially during menstruation
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs that can lead to chronic pelvic pain if left untreated
• Interstitial cystitis – a bladder condition resulting in persistent pelvic pain and urinary urgency

In addition, scar tissue (adhesions) from previous surgeries, infections, or conditions like endometriosis can cause your organs to stick together, leading to pain.

What are the symptoms of pelvic pain?

Symptoms vary depending on the cause but may include:

• Persistent or intermittent pain in the lower abdomen
• Sharp or cramping pain, similar to menstrual cramps
• Pain during intercourse
• Discomfort while urinating or having a bowel movement
• Lower back pain
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge

You may also experience bloating or pressure in the pelvic region.

How is pelvic pain treated?

Southside OB/GYN, PC’s treatment for pelvic pain depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, Dr. Dueno may offer medication as the first line of treatment, including pain relievers, hormonal therapy such as birth control pills to regulate symptoms, or antibiotics to address infections. 

He may also recommend physical therapy, particularly pelvic floor therapy, which helps strengthen and relax your muscles to relieve discomfort. 

For more complex cases, he may suggest minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy to diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis or remove ovarian cysts. 

In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary, including procedures for fibroid removal, advanced endometriosis treatment, or, in some cases, a hysterectomy.

If you have pelvic pain, schedule an appointment for an evaluation by phone or online today.