Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is a common concern and can range from occasional discomfort to chronic, disruptive pain. It may involve the reproductive system, urinary tract, digestive organs, or the pelvic floor. An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, our OBGYN team listens carefully, evaluates thoroughly, and helps you find lasting relief.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis. It can be sudden and short term, or it can last for months. Pain may relate to menstruation, sexual activity, urination, bowel movements, or it may have no clear trigger.

You may describe the pain as:

• Cramping or aching
• Pressure or heaviness
• Sharp or stabbing
• Burning or radiating into the back, legs, or groin

The timing and pattern of symptoms help narrow down the cause.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Gynecologic causes:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Adenomyosis
• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Ectopic pregnancy, which is an emergency

Urinary causes:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Interstitial cystitis, also called bladder pain syndrome

Digestive causes:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Constipation or bowel obstruction
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal causes:

• Pelvic floor dysfunction or tightness
• Scar tissue or adhesions from prior surgery, including cesarean section
• Hernia or nerve compression

Emotional stress or past trauma can amplify physical pain and may be part of the overall picture.

When to See a Provider

Schedule a visit at our women’s health clinic in Henderson if you:

• Have persistent or worsening pelvic pain that does not improve with medication
• Experience pain with intercourse, periods, or bowel movements
• Notice cycle changes or unusual discharge
• Develop pain with fever, nausea, or abnormal bleeding
• Struggle to carry out daily activities due to discomfort

Seek immediate care if your pain is sudden and severe, especially with dizziness, bleeding, or fever.

Diagnosis

We begin with a detailed medical history and symptom review. Your OBGYN in Henderson may recommend:

• Pelvic exam to check for tenderness, masses, or infection
• Urinalysis or blood work to assess infection or inflammation
• Pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
• STI testing when infection is suspected
• MRI or CT scan for additional detail
• Laparoscopy if endometriosis or adhesions are suspected and not seen on imaging

We use a stepwise approach to identify the cause and guide treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause of pain and how much it affects your life.

Medical treatment:

• NSAIDs for inflammation or menstrual cramps
• Antibiotics for infections
• Hormonal birth control to manage endometriosis, fibroids, or menstrual pain
• Bladder treatments or dietary changes for interstitial cystitis or IBS

Lifestyle and non-medical support:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Stress management or mental health support
• Nutritional counseling when weight or diet contributes to symptoms
• Heat therapy and gentle exercise such as yoga or walking

Procedures or surgery:

• Laparoscopic removal of endometriosis, cysts, or fibroids
• Hysteroscopy for concerns inside the uterus
• Adhesiolysis to remove scar tissue when present

Your provider will create a personalized plan that addresses both physical and emotional aspects of chronic pelvic pain.

Do Not Ignore Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is not something you must accept. If it affects your sleep, mood, relationships, or daily routine, help is available.

Schedule a consultation with Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, to begin a thorough evaluation and take the first step toward relief.