Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain includes any type of discomfort you feel in the lower part of your abdomen. The pain may range from mild to severe. The pain may come and go quickly or be a constant problem. 

Pelvic pain that lasts six or more months is chronic pelvic pain (this includes pain that occurs intermittently). 

It’s not uncommon for women to have pelvic pain every month during their period. However, if your pain is worsening or lasting longer several days, then it’s time to find out why. 

Women can develop pelvic pain from any condition that affects any of the organs in the lower part of their abdomen. This includes the reproductive organs, large intestine, and urinary system.

Common causes of pelvic pain include:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Dysmenorrhea
• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney stones
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

You can also develop pelvic pain from muscular or skeletal issues such as low back pain or muscle spasms. 

The team at Federal Way Women’s Health Care conducts a comprehensive evaluation when you come in with concerns about pelvic pain. The goal of the exam is to find the cause of your discomfort so you can get relief.

They review your symptoms, menstrual cycle, gynecological history, and medical history. Your provider performs a physical and pelvic exam and may run diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.

Testing might include lab work to check for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or UTI, or ultrasound testing to evaluate the organs in your pelvic area to look for signs of disease.

The team personalizes your care plan based on the cause of your pelvic pain. Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Hormonal birth control
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Relaxation techniques
• Antibiotics to clear up an infection

In some cases, Federal Way Women’s Health Care may recommend surgery to treat the cause of your pelvic pain, such as removal of fibroids.

Pelvic pain is common in women, but the caring team at Federal Way Women’s Health Care is here to support you. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.