How do I describe my pelvic pain?
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:
- Sudden sharp pain below the belly button
- Pain that doesn’t feel like menstrual cramps
- Dull or achy pain
- Burning or itching between your legs
- Pain during urination
- Stabbing or dull pains during sexual intercourse
So what causes it?
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:
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Uterine or cervical cancer
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Menstrual cramps
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:
- Appendicitis
- Bladder infections or disorders
- Fibromyalgia and nerve conditions
- Bowel disorders
- Kidney infections
- Kidney stones
- Intestinal gas
What treatment options are available?
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.
