Pelvic Pain Specialist

What causes pelvic pain?

Pain below your belly button in your pelvis can be a sign of a variety of issues, ranging from your normal menstrual cycle to bladder problems to intestinal issues. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and painful ovulation are other potential causes of pelvic pain. Pelvic pain that occurs as a result of a problem with your reproductive system may be attributed to any of the following conditions:

• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Uterine fibroids
• Menstrual cramps
• Adenomyosis
• Ovarian or uterine cancer
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Vulvodynia (vaginal pain)

If pelvic pain is recurring, severe, or sudden, or accompanied by a fever or vomiting, you need to seek medical attention to ensure that your condition isn’t life-threatening.

What are common symptoms of chronic female pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain that persists and is related to your reproductive system, including your uterus and ovaries, may feel like a dull ache or a severe, steady pain. Sometimes pelvic pain is intermittent and sometimes it’s constant.

You may also experience sharp pains, cramps, and pressure in your abdomen, or off to one side of your body. Pain during intercourse, while going to the bathroom, or after sitting for a long time is uncommon, too.

When should I see a doctor for pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is considered chronic when it lasts for six months or more. It may make it difficult to sleep, go to work, or participate in activities you enjoy. Chronic pelvic pain may also interfere with sexual intercourse.

If you have pain that comes and goes over the course of a few months, and you can’t attribute it to your period or premenstrual syndrome, it could be the sign of a more serious underlying condition. It’s a good idea to see Dr. De Leon or Dr. Nguyen-Luu for a medical evaluation as soon as possible. They’re experts at diagnosing and treating the cause of your pelvic pain.

They may request additional testing such as ultrasounds, X-rays, or blood tests to help determine why you have pain, so they can treat it accordingly. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to pelvic pain and discomfort, so the doctors create an individualized treatment plan for your specific condition.

Don’t let chronic pelvic pain interfere with your quality of life. Call either the Irving or Dallas office to for an appointment or schedule your visit online.