Pelvic Pain
Women's Clinic of the Rio Grande Valley
Gynecology & Obstetrics located in McAllen, TX & Edinburg, TX
Pelvic pain is a common complaint among women, and it can be incredibly disruptive to your normal daily routines. Fernando Otero, MD, of Women's Clinic of the Rio Grande Valley offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services to women of all ages in and around McAllen and Edinburg, Texas. Don’t live with frequent or severe discomfort when there are treatments to address all types of pelvic pain. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today.
Pelvic Pain Q & A
What is pelvic pain?
Your pelvis is the area beneath your abdomen extending down to your vaginal opening. It includes numerous organs and structures, including your reproductive organs, bladder, bowel, rectum, nerves, and blood vessels.
Occasional pelvic pain is normal and not a cause for concern. However, if you experience severe pelvic pain, frequent pain, or pain that disrupts your normal routines, it’s time to come in for a diagnostic exam.
Pelvic pain can be sharp or dull, steady or intermittent. It can also cause a sensation of pressure or weight in your pelvis. You may only notice pain during urination, bowel movements, sex, or when you’re having your period.
What are some common causes of pelvic pain?
Because there are so many organs and other structures in your pelvis, there are many potential sources of pelvic pain. Some of the more common causes include:
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovulation
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Sexually transmitted disease
- Scar tissue
- Digestive problems
- Miscarriage
- Hernia
- Ectopic pregnancy
This is far from a comprehensive list. To get to the bottom of pelvic pain, book a visit with Dr. Otero today.
How is pelvic pain diagnosed?
Dr. Otero begins the diagnostic process with a discussion of your health history and your current symptoms. A pelvic exam provides additional insight into what might be causing your discomfort.
Based on the information gathered during your exam Dr. Otero may suggest imaging tests. Abdominal X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computerized tomography (CT) scans are some of the available options. Ultrasound is another way to gain a visual representation of your pelvic structures.
A laparoscopy is a powerful tool in diagnosing pelvic pain. The simple surgical procedure uses a thin tube with a camera and light to display images of your pelvic organs and tissues onto a monitor. This approach allows Dr. Otero to look for abnormalities and signs of inflammation or tissue damage.
If you’re living with pelvic pain and looking for answers, schedule an exam with Dr. Otero at your earliest convenience. You can book a visit online or by phone. Once the source of your pain is determined, Dr. Otero can explain the pros and cons of various treatment options.