Pelvic Pain Specialist
Pelvic Pain Q & A
There are various factors to consider when diagnosing pelvic pain. Pain can occur during a woman’s period or sexual intercourse. It can also be a sign of organs in the body behaving irregularly, a sign of infection, or an issue with the rectum, muscles, or bones. Contacting the practice can lead to a proper examination and treatment for whatever the cause may be.
Before a physical exam begins, Dr. Lingenfelter asks a series of questions to determine the general source and severity of your pain. This gives him a better understanding of the root cause and allows for a more focused physical exam. During the physical exam, he checks the abdomen and pelvis, looking closely at skin, organs, and tissue for any signs of tenderness or irregularities. Further tests may be required if he deems it necessary. These exams can include:
- Blood or urine tests
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Pelvic laparoscopy
- Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Cystoscopy
- Colonoscopy
Common forms of treatment include:
- Pain relievers
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants
Some forms of pelvic pain are caused by pelvic organs falling out of their normal positioning and push against the vaginal wall and, in severe cases, through the vaginal opening. This condition is known as a pelvic organ prolapse. Most women have a mild form of pelvic organ prolapse, one that doesn’t require surgery. At the physical level, a healthier lifestyle resulting in weight reduction can alleviate pressure on the pelvic region, easing related pain. If the cause of pain is connective, tissue or muscles treatments include:
- Physical therapy
- Stretching
- Strengthening
These forms of prolapse repair are considered the conventional method of treatment versus more drastic forms of surgery such as vaginal wall repair or vaginal wall closure. Another form of surgery known as a hysterectomy, removal of the uterus, is performed in the presence of severe fibroids. Fibroids are smooth muscle growths located within the uterus that can cause pain and bleeding.
Sexually transmitted diseases can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. This is an inflammation of the organs, such as the cervix or uterus, located in the pelvic region caused by such STDs as chlamydia or gonorrhea. Common treatment for pelvic pain caused by STDs comes in the form of antibiotics to treat the STD directly. Any persistent health problems caused by an STD before treatment will likely remain, so it’s important to contact Dr. Lingenfelter for treatment immediately.
Brandon M. Lingenfelter, DO, PhD
OB/GYN located in Princeton, WV
Major Insurance Providers Accepted
