Diagnosing the cause of pelvic pain can be difficult. You can have bladder problems, menstrual issues, or even bowel problems, all of which can leave you with pain in your lower abdomen. As an integrative medicine OB/GYN, Dr. Shawn Tassone of Tassone Gynecology, can get to the root of your pelvic pain by exploring all diagnostic possibilities. His practice is currently accepting new patients in the Austin, Texas area.
During your visit with Dr. Tassone, he’ll ask you where your pain is coming from, as well as what it feels like. The more thorough descriptions you provide, the easier it’ll be for him to diagnose and treat you. Also remember to tell him what triggers your pain, or what makes it better. Patients with pelvic pain often complain of:
You have so much going on in your pelvic region, pain can come from a number of sources. During your appointment, Dr. Tassone will gather your pain history and conduct a physical exam. He’ll likely order some lab work too, just to see if any biomarkers in your blood or urine are red flags that something in your system is off. Some of the possible causes of pelvic pain in women include:
Because all pelvic pain doesn’t originate from your reproductive system, Dr. Tassone will do a thorough exam to be sure there isn’t something else going on. If necessary, he can send you to a specialist for medical issues outside his field. Other possible causes of pelvic pain include:
Your treatment will depend on the cause of your pelvic pain. If you have an infection like pelvic inflammatory disease, for instance, you may need antibiotics. Or if you suffer from severe cramps when you’re on your period, you might need birth control pills to prevent cramps from occurring in the first place. You may need surgery if you have a growth or cyst that needs to be removed. But rest assured, Dr. Tassone will do everything he can to get to the root of your pelvic pain, so he can provide the proper treatment.