Pain Management Health Center

Tools & Resources

Font Size

Pain Management: Pelvic Pain

Although pelvic pain often refers to pain in the region of women's internal reproductive organs, pelvic pain can be present in either sex and can stem from multiple causes. Pelvic pain may be a symptom of infection or may arise from pain in the pelvic bone or in non-reproductive internal organs. In women, however, pelvic pain can very well be an indication that there may be a problem with one of the reproductive organs in the pelvic area (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, or vagina).

Trying to Manage Chronic Pain? Take This Self-Assessment to Get Your Personal Health Report

What Causes Pelvic Pain?

Possible causes of pelvic pain in both men and women may include:

Appendicitis
Bladder disorders
Sexually transmitted diseases
Kidney infection or kidney stones
Intestinal disorders
Nerve conditions
Hernia
Pelvis disorder
Broken pelvis
Psychogenic pain

Possible causes of pelvic pain in women only may include:

Ectopic pregnancy
Miscarriage
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Ovulation
Menstrual cramps
Ovarian cysts or other ovarian disorders
Fibroids
Endometriosis
Uterine cancer
Cervical cancer

What Symptoms Suggest a Problem?

Menstrual cramps
Menstrual pain
Vaginal bleeding, spotting or discharge
Painful or difficult urination
Constipation or diarrhea
Bloating or gas
Blood seen with a bowel movement
Pain during intercourse
Fever or chills
Pain in the hip area
Pain in the groin area

How Is the Cause of Pelvic Pain Determined?

To determine what is causing pelvic pain, your doctor will first ask you several questions about your symptoms and past medical problems. He or she will also perform a physical exam and may offer you tests to determine what is causing your pain. Other tests that may be given include:

Blood and urine tests
Pregnancy tests in females of reproductive age
Vaginal or penile cultures to check for sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and/or Chlamydia
Abdominal and pelvic X-rays
Bone density screening (special type of X-ray to determine the strength of bone)
Diagnostic laparoscopy (procedure allowing a direct look at the structures in the pelvis and abdomen)
Hysteroscopy (procedure to examine the uterus)
Stool guaiac test (checking a stool sample for presence of microscopic blood)
Lower endoscopy (insertion of a lighted tube to examine the inside of the rectum and part or all of the colon)
Ultrasound (test that uses sound waves to provide images of internal organs)
CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis (scan that uses X-rays and computers to produce an image of a cross-section of the body)

How Is Pelvic Pain Treated?

The treatment of pelvic pain varies depending on the cause, how intense the pain is, and how often the pain occurs. Sometimes pelvic pain is treated with medications, including antibiotics if necessary. If the pain results from a problem with one of the pelvic organs, the treatment may involve surgery or other procedures. A doctor can provide more information about various treatments for pelvic pain.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Pain Management Department.

WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic