If you’ve been experiencing aches or pains between your bellybutton and hips for more than six months, you may be dealing with chronic pelvic pain. There are several factors that can contribute to pelvic pain, which is why it’s important to visit a gynecologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you're still unsure of the cause behind your pelvic problems, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist and learn more about the symptoms and causes of the chronic condition.

What Are the Signs of Chronic Pelvic Pain?

The most consistent symptom of this condition includes a pain in the pelvic region, which can be characterized as severe and steady or intermittent and dull. You may also experience cramping, pressure or heaviness, as well as pain during intercourse, while going to the bathroom, or after sitting for extended periods of time. This pain can also be more prominent after working on your feet for multiple hours.

What Causes This Condition?

Chronic pelvic pain is typically indicative of another health disorder, traditionally gynecological or digestive. If you suffer from endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids, an ovary remnant, irritable bowel syndrome, or cysts of the bladder, you are more likely to experience chronic pelvic pain.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Your gynecologist will take an extensive medical history, which will include the health background of female family members. The doctor may also run diagnostic exams that include blood work or urological tests to rule out infection as the cause. If a cause cannot be determined, they may need to perform a laparoscopic procedure to be able to visually inspect your reproductive organs. This is considered a minor outpatient surgery.

Can It Be Treated?

Your gynecologist will recommend treatment options based on the underlying cause of your chronic pelvic pain. These solutions may include birth control to hinder ovulation, over-the-counter pain relievers, relaxation techniques, antibiotics or surgery if cysts or fibroids need to be removed. Before suggesting a treatment, the doctor will discuss all the information with you thoroughly to help you understand the recommendation.

Chronic pelvic pain can negatively affect your quality of life—but it doesn’t have to. Talk more with your gynecologist about what you can do to find the relief you deserve.

Caring For Women is located in Anchorage, AK, and provides comprehensive gynecology services for women in the surrounding communities. Whether you’re experiencing chronic pelvic pain or have an abnormal menstrual cycle, the team of gynecologists at Caring For Women provides compassionate and competent care. To learn more about this gynecology practice, visit their website or call (907) 279-2229.