Occasional pelvic pain is a common concern, especially among women, and can significantly disrupt your daily routine. Additionally, the underlying cause of your pelvic pain may advance and cause more severe symptoms that may be life-threatening. Fortunately, gynecology experts offer effective treatments to alleviate your pain.
What is pelvic pain?
The pelvis is a basin-shaped structure that connects your legs and trunk and provides sturdy support to your spinal column. Experiencing pelvic pain once in a while is normal and may not be a cause of alarm. But if the pain becomes persistent and excruciating or prevents you from carrying out your daily activities effectively, you may need a diagnostic exam.
Pelvic pain can range from a sharp stabbing jab to an uncomfortable dull ache on the lower part of your abdomen. At times, you may experience unexplained pressure or heaviness on your pelvis. In most cases, you’re likely to experience pelvic pain during sex, bowel movements, urination, or menstrual periods. Persistent, severe pelvic pain can indicate an infection in your pelvis bone or a medical condition in your reproductive organs.
What are some of the health conditions that can cause pelvic pain?
Your pelvis is a large structure that consists of many organs that may be potential sources of your pelvic pain. Pelvic pain can be acute or chronic, depending on the underlying condition. Some of the health conditions that may instigate pelvic pain include:
- Ovulation
- Endometriosis
- Digestive problems
- Miscarriage
- ·Ectopic pregnancy
- Scar tissue
- Sexually transmitted disease
- Hernia
- Uterine fibroids
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
The most common symptom of these conditions is chronic pain that worsens over time. In some cases, it may be difficult to detect the underlying cause of your pain and discomfort, considering that most of the above health conditions cause similar symptoms.
How can your doctor diagnose pelvic pain?
During your appointment, Dr. Otero reviews your medical history and discusses your symptoms to determine the root cause of your pain. He may also conduct a pelvic exam to get a clear visual of your pelvis and detect any abnormalities that may be causing your discomfort. Dr. Otero analyzes the information from your pelvic exam and may recommend imaging tests, depending on your results. He may perform computerized tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging, or abdominal rays as part of the diagnosis procedure. He may also use ultrasound to get an insight into your pelvic structures. Laparoscopy is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for pelvis pain that gives accurate results.
During the procedure, Dr. Otero uses a catheter attached to a camera and light to get a clear visual of your pelvic structures and detect any tissue damage or pelvic inflammation. After identifying the underlying potential cause of your pelvic pain, he may create a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying health condition. In some cases, the underlying cause may not be identified, and in such cases, he may focus on improving your symptoms and restoring the quality of your life.
Do not allow pelvic pain to prevent you from enjoying your favorite physical activities. Call Dr. Otero or schedule a pelvic exam with him online.
