Chronic Pelvic Pain Treatment in Charlottesville, VA
Find relief and support for chronic pelvic pain in a caring environment.
What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain?
Chronic pelvic pain refers to any pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis that has been present for 3-6 months or longer. Basically, pain that is not going away on its own. It can stem from gynecological, urinary, digestive, neurologic or musculoskeletal causes. The pain may range from mild and intermittent to severe and constant. Sometimes the cause of the pain is unknown, while at other times the problem that caused the original pain has resolved but the pain has not.
Symptoms of chronic pelvic pain include:
- Persistent or recurring pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
- Pain during intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Pressure or heaviness in the pelvis
- Sharp, stabbing, or aching sensations
- Pain that worsens during menstruation
Why Does Chronic Pelvic Pain Occur?
Chronic pelvic pain can have multiple causes and often involves more than one pain source. Some of the common conditions that are involved include gynecological conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Urinary issues, often diagnosed as interstitial cystitis, and bowel problems like irritable bowel syndrome are also common contributing diagnoses. Muscular and nerve-related conditions, including pelvic floor dysfunction, organ sensitization or central sensitization, might also play a role.
Emotional or physical stress can sometimes exacerbate symptoms, adding to the complexity of this condition.
How Is Chronic Pelvic Pain Diagnosed?
Diagnosing chronic pelvic pain involves steps to determine the underlying cause. Your provider will begin with a comprehensive medical history, asking about your symptoms, past surgeries, or infections.
A physical examination usually will follow, focusing on areas of tenderness in the pelvic organs or pelvic floor muscles. Additional diagnostic tools, such as ultrasounds or an MRI scan may be used to evaluate the uterus, ovaries, and other structures. Laboratory tests might also be conducted to rule out infections or other conditions.
How Is Chronic Pelvic Pain Treated?
Treatment for chronic pelvic pain involves addressing its underlying causes. Physical therapy, including pelvic floor physical therapy, is commonly used to relieve muscle pain and improve bladder and bowel function. Medications may be prescribed to help with pain flairs or to decrease pain intensity while focusing on the underlying causes of your pain.
If pain stems from a gynecological condition or is aggravated by menses then treatments such as hormonal therapy may be offered. Targeted care for bladder pain, frequency, and urgency might also be recommended. In some cases, minimally invasive surgical procedures can address structural issues or endometriosis.
Your provider will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, focusing on symptom relief and improving your quality of life.
What To Expect During Your Appointment
At your appointment, your gynecologist will carefully listen to your concerns and review your medical history. They will perform a thorough physical examination if you are comfortable with that, checking for areas of tenderness or abnormalities in the pelvic region.
Depending on your symptoms, additional tests or imaging may be ordered to gain more insight. Once the cause of your pain is better understood, your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include lifestyle recommendations, medication, physical therapy, or other treatments. Your care team will be there to support you every step of the way.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
The Center for Advanced Gynecology, established in 2018, is dedicated to improving your health by offering expertise in various areas, with a specific focus on gynecological care and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is needed.
Our team provides specialized expertise in non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.
Since opening our doors, we have recognized the need in our community for more than just specialty care and have a growing practice in routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive care, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.