Pelvic Pain

While pelvic pain in women is common, it could be the sign of an underlying OB/GYN condition that needs immediate medical attention. At Progressive Women's Healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia, board-certified obstetrics and gynecology physician Lathan Overstreet, MD, and his skilled midwifery team determine the cause of pelvic pain and offer treatments that reduce discomfort and the risk of complications. Schedule an evaluation at Progressive Women's Healthcare by phone or online today.

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is the uncomfortable feeling that may develop in your lower abdominal area. Men and women can develop it, though it’s common among women due to menstruation, gynecological conditions, or other issues involving women’s reproductive organs. The Progressive Women's Healthcare team pinpoints the root cause of the discomfort to effectively treat it.

Which symptoms may be associated with pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain may present as:

• Abdominal aching
• Cramping
• Sharp pain
• Ongoing discomfort
• Lower abdominal pain that comes and goes
• Painful periods
• Painful urination 

The discomfort might be mild or severe. If pelvic pain doesn’t go away on its own or becomes severe, see your women’s health care provider for an evaluation. 

What can cause pelvic pain?

The following conditions can cause pelvic pain in women:

• Infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Appendicitis
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Intestinal disorders
• Kidney stones or infections 
• Hernias
• Pinched spinal nerves
• Pregnancy
• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovulation
• Menstrual cramping
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Cervical cancer

You might also experience irregular vaginal bleeding or discharge, bloating, pain in your groin area, or other symptoms associated with underlying causes of pelvic pain. 

How is the underlying cause of pelvic pain diagnosed?

To diagnose the reason for pelvic pain, your women’s health specialist checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam (including a pelvic exam), and discusses your symptoms and medical history. 

You might need urine tests, blood testing, a Pap test, a pregnancy test, an ultrasound, other imaging procedures, hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy. Your provider discusses the results with you and develops a personalized treatment.

How is pelvic pain treated?

Your pelvic pain treatment plan depends on the cause of your discomfort. You might make lifestyle changes, take medications, complete physical therapy, or undergo a minor surgical procedure. Avoid smoking, take dietary supplements if needed, and practice relaxation exercises. Limit or avoid alcohol, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly. 

Call the Progressive Women's Healthcare office at any time with questions or additional concerns you might have.

Schedule a pelvic pain evaluation at Progressive Women's Healthcare by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.