Physical discomfort is unfortunately present throughout a majority of a woman’s life, from pregnancy and childbirth to monthly menstruation and menopause. It’s a real testament to the strength and resilience of the female body! Even though women have to endure so much, it’s important not to ignore pain and pass it off as “normal” when it’s persistent. While there is pelvic pain that shouldn’t ring any alarms, there is a definitive point where seeking the help of a healthcare professional is in your best interest.
What is normal
Depending on the cause, pelvic pain that comes and goes is normal and fairly common. For many women, this uncomfortable heaviness in the pelvic area, lower back or stomach is due to menstrual cramping. Occasional period cramps can feel like anything from a dull ache to shooting pains with the possibility of symptoms changing month to month. Other possible causes of non-chronic pain can be constipation, bloating or diarrhea, which may be an indication of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While the cause of IBS is unknown, it does not pose a serious threat to your physical health and can be managed with modifications to diet, lifestyle and stress.
When it’s time to seek help
Whether your pelvic pain is dull, sharp, constant or intermittent, if it is occurring on a regular basis and interfering with your quality of life, it’s time to seek medical help at Aguirre Specialty Care. It is important to consult a specialist who can accurately diagnose and treat you if you have chronic pelvic pain as there are numerous potential causes, including:
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cancer
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Interstitial cystitis / painful bladder syndrome
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Vulvodynia
To identify the source of your pelvic pain, board-certified urogynecologic surgeon Dr. Oscar A. Aguirre will perform a comprehensive examination. Following a conclusive diagnosis, one or more of the following approaches may be used in your treatment: laser vaginal resurfacing, pelvic floor physical therapy, bladder installations, trigger point injections, PRP injections, sacral nerve stimulation, diagnostic laparoscopy or pelvic surgery.
To learn more about treating your pelvic pain at Aguirre Specialty Care, call 303-322-0500 or request a consultation online today.
