Author: Stephen Frausto, M.D., FACOG

Pelvic pain in women can be complex to diagnose and treat. Symptoms can vary greatly from patient to patient, and – in some cases – the pain may be related to more than one condition. Below are a few common causes of pelvic pain. If you’re experiencing any kind of discomfort in the abdomen or pelvic region, tell your doctor, or schedule an appointment with a gynecologist.

#1 Gastrointestinal

Pelvic pain in many women is entirely unrelated to the reproductive system. Even if the source of your pelvic pain is not in the reproductive system, your Mesa gynecologist may still have experience in diagnosing and treating your pelvic pain. GI-related causes of pelvic pain may include hernia, kidney stones, colon cancer, intestinal obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome, and other conditions.

#2 Ovarian Cysts

Larger ovarian cysts are one of the more common causes of pelvic pain in the reproductive system. While many cysts are benign, they can cause pain and abnormal bleeding – especially around the time of menstruation. Learn more.

#3 Endometriosis

Endometriosis is one of the most common female reproductive system issues, affecting approximately one in 10 women of reproductive age. In women with endometriosis, cells of the endometrium (tissue lining the uterus) have grown outside the uterus. These cells then shed during menstruation just like the other normal cells within the uterine walls, causing moderate to severe pelvic pain in many women. Over time, endometriosis can cause scar tissue to develop, resulting in more intense pain that especially worsens around the time of menstruation. Your Mesa gynecologist can diagnose this condition.

#4 Infection

Lastly, it’s important not to rule out infection as a possible cause of pelvic pain. If you’re sexually active, consider having STD/STI screening as part of your regular GYN appointment. Also, not all infection is sexually transmitted, so non-sexually active women may also be susceptible to pelvic pain caused by infection. Learn more about recommended screenings for women in your age group.

Schedule An Appointment With a Mesa Gynecologist for Pelvic Pain

In all cases of pelvic pain, going to see your gynecologist is an appropriate measure. To schedule an appointment with a board-certified gynecologist in Mesa or Tempe, call Arizona Associates for Women’s Health at 480-257-2700. You can also schedule your appointment online. You don’t have to live with the discomfort of pelvic pain. Schedule an appointment today.

Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.