Pelvic Pain Treatment in Fairfax VA

Overview

Pelvic pain is common, but it can be stressful, confusing, and hard to talk about. Some women feel pain once in a while, while others feel it every day. You might notice it during your period, during sex, when you use the restroom, or even when you are simply sitting or walking. At Fairfax Gynecology Group in Fairfax, Virginia, we understand how much pelvic pain can affect your life. Our team listens carefully, explains things in clear and simple terms, and helps you find a plan that brings relief.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is pain that you feel in the area below your belly button and between your hips. The pain may be sharp, dull, burning, cramping, or pressure like a heavy weight. It can come and go, or it can stay for long periods of time. Sometimes the pain starts suddenly, and sometimes it slowly becomes worse over time.
Pelvic pain can have many causes. Some are minor and easy to treat. Others may need more care. You do not have to figure it out on your own. We are here to help you get answers.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can come from the uterus, ovaries, bladder, bowel, muscles, or nerves in the pelvis. Because there are many organs in a small area, it can take time to understand the exact cause. Your symptoms help guide the process.

Common causes include:

Period cramps
Ovarian cysts
Fibroids
Endometriosis
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Urinary tract infections
Gastrointestinal issues like constipation or IBS
Muscle tension or pelvic floor dysfunction
Pain after childbirth
Hormonal changes

Some women have more than one cause at the same time, which is why personalized care is important.

When Pelvic Pain Is an Emergency

In some cases, pelvic pain needs immediate medical attention. Go to the emergency room or call your doctor right away if you have:

Sudden, severe lower belly pain
Fever with pelvic pain
Vomiting with pain
Pain after a positive pregnancy test
Dizziness or fainting
Heavy bleeding with clots

These symptoms do not always mean something serious, but it is safest to get help quickly.

How We Diagnose Pelvic Pain

At Fairfax Gynecology Group, we approach pelvic pain with patience and care. We do not assume anything or rush you. Your provider will ask about your symptoms and how the pain feels, then guide you through simple steps to figure out what is going on.

A pelvic pain evaluation may include:

1. A detailed conversation

We talk about:

When the pain started
What makes it better or worse
Your period history
Pain during intercourse
Digestive symptoms
Stress levels
Past pregnancies or surgeries

This helps us understand the full picture.

2. A gentle exam

A pelvic exam allows your doctor to check for tenderness, swelling, or changes in the uterus or ovaries. We explain each step to help you stay comfortable.

3. Ultrasound

An ultrasound shows pictures of your uterus and ovaries. It helps identify cysts, fibroids, or other changes that may be causing pain.

4. Lab tests if needed

Sometimes we check for infection or hormone levels.

5. Other tests

If symptoms suggest issues with the bladder or bowel, we may recommend seeing another specialist. Most women do not need advanced testing.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain

Your treatment plan depends on the cause of your pain. In many cases, symptoms improve after simple, noninvasive treatments. Our goal is to ease your pain, help you understand your condition, and support you through each step.

Here are the most common treatments:

1. Medication

Depending on the cause, medication may help with:

Pain relief
Inflammation
Hormonal balance
Infection treatment
Cycle regulation

Some medications are taken only during symptoms, while others help prevent pain over time.

2. Hormone therapy

Birth control pills, the patch, the ring, or other hormonal treatments may help reduce period pain, control heavy bleeding, or manage endometriosis symptoms.

3. Physical therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help if the pain comes from muscle tension, tightness, or weakness. Many women find this surprisingly effective, especially for chronic pain.

4. Minimally invasive procedures

If cysts, fibroids, or endometriosis cause your pain, your doctor may recommend a procedure to remove or treat them.

5. Lifestyle support

Small changes can help reduce flare-ups:

Using heat
Doing gentle stretching
Improving posture
Managing constipation
Reducing stress
Tracking symptoms

Your provider will help you find what works for your body.

6. Long-term follow-up

Pelvic pain often improves over time with consistent care. We stay with you through the process, adjusting your plan as needed.

Living With Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can affect your mood, sleep, energy, and relationships. It can make exercise, work, or intimacy uncomfortable. You may even feel frustrated or discouraged when the pain comes back.

You are not alone. Many women struggle with pelvic pain, and there is no shame in speaking up. We encourage you to share openly so we can help you feel better.

Simple strategies at home may help you manage symptoms:

Use a heating pad
Track symptoms in a journal
Take medication as prescribed
Practice gentle yoga or stretching
Try deep breathing exercises
Drink plenty of water
Avoid foods that trigger digestive pain

These steps will not cure pelvic pain, but they can help you feel more comfortable day to day.

When to Schedule an Appointment

You should schedule a visit if:

The pain lasts more than a few days
The pain keeps coming back
Period cramps are getting worse
Sex is painful
You have bleeding between periods
You have trouble getting pregnant
Pain affects your daily routine

Even if you are unsure what is wrong, we are here to help you find answers.

Compassionate Pelvic Pain Care in Fairfax VA At Fairfax Gynecology Group, we know pelvic pain can be overwhelming. Our team is here to listen, support you, and find real solutions that bring relief. You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your care. If you are experiencing pelvic pain, we are ready to help you take the next step toward feeling better.

FAQs About Pelvic Pain

Mild cramps during your period can be normal, but ongoing or severe pelvic pain is not something you should ignore.

Stress does not directly cause pelvic pain, but it can make symptoms feel stronger.

Not always. Many causes are treatable and not dangerous.

Sometimes. Conditions like endometriosis or fibroids may impact fertility, but many women can still become pregnant with treatment.

Most women do not. Many causes improve with medication, therapy, or simple treatments.

Yes, but you may need to adjust your activity based on your symptoms.

It depends on the cause. Some women improve quickly, while others need ongoing treatment.