Pelvic Pain

If you have pelvic pain outside of your usual menstrual cramps, it might be the first sign you have an underlying health condition. At Howard Center, with offices throughout Georgia, our experienced gynecology team offers diagnostic testing services to determine what’s causing your pain. We also personalize treatment plans to ease persistent pelvic pain and address its underlying cause. Call the Howard Center office nearest you to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for pelvic pain or request an appointment online today.  

What causes pelvic pain?

There are a number of issues that can cause pelvic pain. Acute pelvic pain that lasts for less than six weeks can be the result of digestive issues or a urinary tract infection. You might also develop acute pelvic pain because of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Chronic pelvic pain typically lasts for six months or longer and can start because of:

• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

You might also develop chronic pelvic pain because of damage in the muscles and ligaments in your pelvic floor or due to conditions like fibromyalgia or a hernia.

When should I see a doctor for pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain can range from mild to severe. You might experience a dull ache or a sharp pain depending on the cause of your pain. Pain may worsen during your period, when you’re urinating, or with sexual activity.

Pain can also radiate into other parts of your body and cause lower back pain and pain in your thighs or buttocks.

The Howard Center believes that early detection is key and that our patients do not have to live in pain. If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, don’t wait — schedule an appointment. If it is a major issue and we detect it early enough, we may be able to prevent further damage. 

How is pelvic pain treated?

At The Howard Center, we offer pelvic exams and diagnostic testing services to identify what’s causing your pelvic pain. Based on the results of your testing, our experienced gynecologists customize a treatment plan to ease your pain and protect your pelvic health.

Treatment options available to treat pelvic pain include:

• Pain relievers
• Anti-inflammatories
• Antibiotics
• Hormone therapy
• Physical therapy

We also offer minimally invasive surgery to remove scar tissue or treat endometriosis, providing you with long-term relief of pelvic pain. 

If you have heavy bleeding along with pelvic pain, you might be a candidate for endometrial ablation with NovaSure®. This procedure is only right for women who are done having children because it removes the lining of the uterus, so pregnancy isn’t possible. 

In some cases, a hysterectomy may be necessary to address pelvic pain that stems from abnormalities in your uterus, ovaries, or other reproductive structures.

Don’t ignore chronic pelvic pain. Call the Howard Center office nearest you to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online today.