Pelvic Pain Specialist

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is why many women visit an OB/GYN. Pelvic pain refers to pain mainly occurring in the area below your belly button. Pelvic pain can come and go, or it can persist. Severe pelvic pain can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life.

What are the signs of pelvic pain?

Pain is the chief symptom, but the type of pain and your symptoms can vary. Your experience of pelvic pain can be different from another woman’s experience. Pelvic pain may feel:

• Sharp
• Stabbing
• Dull
• Radiating

You may experience pain during your periods, when using the bathroom, or lifting a heavy object. Some women experience pelvic pain during sex or when inserting a tampon. Other women experience pain in their external genitalia, a condition called vulvodynia. 

Pelvic pain can be severe enough to interfere with normal activities, such as working and exercising. Pain lasting over six months is considered chronic pelvic pain.

How is pelvic pain diagnosed?

Dr. Harrison begins by asking about your medical history. She performs a physical exam, including a pelvic exam. If need be, she also recommends diagnostic tests to find the cause of your pelvic pain. 

For example, uterine fibroids can cause pelvic pain, so Dr. Harrison may recommend ultrasonography or another diagnostic test to look for the presence of fibroids or other abnormalities.

Endometriosis also causes pelvic pain. Dr. Harrison looks for signs of whether you have this condition.

How is pelvic pain treated?

At Sovereign Women's Healthcare, Dr. Harrision tailors your treatment to the underlying reason for the pain. She may suggest making lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise. 

Taking vitamin B1 and magnesium may relieve pain associated with your menstrual cycle. Other treatments include:

• Pain-relieving drugs
• Hormonal treatment
• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Relaxation exercises

In some cases, you may need surgery to remove fibroids, adhesions, or endometrial growths. If these methods don’t relieve your pain, Dr. Harrison discusses whether you might benefit from surgery to eliminate the nerve that's sending pain signals. 

Sovereign Women's Healthcare aims to alleviate your symptoms, treat the underlying cause, and promote your optimal health and wellness. If you’ve been suffering from pelvic pain, don’t delay. Call Sovereign Women's Healthcare today or book a consultation online.