Pelvic pain caused by dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) affects up to 90% of women, and it’s far from the only cause. While some are mild and temporary, others need medical care. At Dunwoody OBGYN, we identify the source and guide you toward the right treatment for effective relief.
Pelvic pain refers to discomfort affecting the lower abdomen or pelvis. For some women, it feels like menstrual cramps, but it can also cause:
Pelvic pain may last for a few hours, or it may keep coming back for weeks or months. It might show up during your period, during sex, when you use the bathroom, or at random times throughout the month. No matter how it feels, pelvic pain signals that something in your body needs attention.
Many cases of pelvic pain relate to reproductive health. One common cause is endometriosis, a condition where cells resembling uterine lining tissue grow outside the uterus. This can lead to painful periods, pain during sex, and ongoing pelvic discomfort.
Ovarian cysts can also cause pain. Some cysts don't cause symptoms at all, but others can create pressure, bloating, or sharp pain, especially if they rupture or twist. Another possibility is uterine fibroids. These noncancerous growths can cause pelvic pressure, heavy periods, cramping, and lower back pain.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is an infection affecting the reproductive organs that can lead to pelvic pain, fever, unusual discharge, and pain during sex. PID needs prompt treatment to help prevent long-term complications.
In some cases, pelvic pain may come from ovulation or menstrual cramps, especially if the pain follows a monthly pattern. Even then, severe pain shouldn't be brushed aside; if it disrupts your daily life, it's worth discussing with your OB/GYN.
Gynecologic problems account for 20% of chronic pelvic pain, but because so many organs sit in the pelvic area, it can have many different causes. Your bladder, bowel, muscles, and even nearby nerves can all play a role. That's why it's so important not to guess. A proper evaluation helps us find out what your body is trying to tell you.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) may cause pelvic pressure, burning with urination, or the constant urge to go. Interstitial cystitis (also called painful bladder syndrome) can cause chronic pelvic discomfort and bladder pain.
Digestive issues can trigger pelvic pain, too. Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can create cramping, bloating, and lower abdominal pain that may feel very similar to gynecologic pain.
Muscle tension and pelvic floor problems can also cause symptoms. If the muscles in the pelvic area are tight or irritated, they can lead to aching, pressure, and pain with movement, sex, or sitting.
Some types of pelvic pain need urgent care. Don’t ever ignore severe or sudden pain and seek prompt medical attention if pelvic pain comes with:
These symptoms can point to serious problems such as an ectopic pregnancy, ovarian torsion, or a significant infection. Quick treatment matters in these situations.
Even if the pain doesn't feel severe, you should make an appointment if it keeps returning, gets worse over time, or affects your work, sleep, exercise, or relationships. Ongoing pain deserves answers.
When you come to Dunwoody OBGYN for pelvic pain, we start by listening. We ask when the pain began, how it feels, where you notice it, and whether anything makes it better or worse. We also ask about your menstrual cycle, sexual health, bathroom habits, and any other symptoms.
Next, we might perform a physical and pelvic exam, depending on your symptoms. We may recommend testing, such as a urinalysis, lab work, or an ultrasound. In some cases, additional imaging helps us look deeper.
The goal isn't just to label the pain but to understand what's causing it and build a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Treatment depends on the cause of your pelvic pain, but may include:
Some patients need simple treatment; others need a more detailed plan. Either way, you deserve care that takes your symptoms seriously.
Pelvic pain is your body's way of asking for attention, so don't ignore the signal. At Dunwoody OBGYN, we're here to help you uncover the cause and find a path toward relief. Call us today or complete the online inquiry form.
