Pelvic Pain
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Apple Hill Gynecology
Gynecology & Endometriosis Specialist located in York, PA
Some pelvic pain just before or during the first few days of your period is common. However, pelvic pain at other times during your menstrual cycle or severe pelvic pain may signal a problem. At Apple Hill Gynecology in York, Pennsylvania, Marsha D. Bornt, MD, conducts comprehensive evaluations to determine the cause of your pelvic pain. For compassionate care from a team of experts, contact the office by phone or online today.
Pelvic Pain Q & A
What is pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain refers to any discomfort you experience in your lower abdominal area. The pain may be a dull ache or sharp shooting pain. Your discomfort may be acute, chronic, or intermittent.
Though many women experience pelvic pain in relation to their menstrual cycle, if your pain is severe, you’ve had it for a long time, or it comes and goes, you should schedule an evaluation with the women’s health experts at Apple Hill Gynecology.
Pelvic pain that lasts six or more months, even if your pain is intermittent, is considered chronic and should be evaluated.
What causes pelvic pain?
You may develop pelvic pain from any number of causes that may involve your reproductive, urinary, or digestive system.
Common gynecological causes of pelvic pain include:
- Heavy periods
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Vaginitis
- Miscarriage
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Gynecological cancer
You may also develop pelvic pain from a urinary tract infection, which the team at Apple Hill Gynecology can treat. You may also develop pelvic pain if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, kidney stones, or fibromyalgia.
What can I expect during an evaluation for my pelvic pain?
You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see the team at Apple Hill Gynecology with concerns about pelvic pain. The goal of your evaluation is to find the underlying cause so you get the most effective treatment.
During your exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, gynecological and medical history, as well as your family history. Your practitioner conducts a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, and may request various diagnostic tests to better understand the cause of your pain.
Initial testing may include any of the following:
- Pap smear
- Blood test
- Urinalysis
- Ultrasound
- MRI
In some cases, the team at Apple Hill Gynecology may suggest a laparoscopy to better understand the cause of your symptoms. During the minimally invasive diagnostic procedure, your surgeon inserts a laparoscope (surgical camera) through a tiny incision in your abdomen to view your reproductive organs. If needed, they may perform any necessary procedure during your laparoscopy to ease your pelvic pain.
How is pelvic pain treated?
Treatment for your pelvic pain is individualized based on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms.
Your pelvic pain treatment plan may include:
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Hormonal birth control
- Lifestyle modification
- Nutrition therapy
- Endometrial ablation
- Minimally invasive surgery
The team at Apple Hill Gynecology discusses the details of your treatment options so you can make the most informed decisions about your care.
To schedule a consultation for your pelvic pain, call Apple Hill Gynecology or book an appointment online today.
