Definition

Pelvic pain can happen between the belly button and the hips and groin. Chronic pelvic pain is pain that lasts for 6 months or more. It is often hard to locate the source of the pain. Problems in the intestines, nerves, bladder, and prostate can cause pelvic pain.

Male Pelvic Organs Includes bladder, prostate (under bladder), and the colon. © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Many health problems can cause chronic pelvic pain such as:

• Infections such as those in the bladder or urinary tract
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Problems with nerves and muscles
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Depression
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Diverticulitis
• Cancer
• Prior physical or sexual abuse

Risk Factors

Having any of the problems listed above will make the chances of pain in your pelvis higher.

Symptoms

Common symptoms are:

• Constant pain or dull ache in the pelvis
• Burning, shooting pain
• Urgent need to pass stool or urine
• Pain that comes and goes
• Pain that ranges from mild to severe
• Pain with certain activities
• Pain while sitting for a long time

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You may be asked to keep a pain diary. Write down when your pain happens, how it feels, and how long it lasts.

You may also have:

• Blood and urine tests
• Cultures and swabs
• Tests for STIs
• Imaging tests such as:
  • X-rays
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan
• Scoping tests will allow your doctor too see structures on a video screen:
  • Laparoscopy —belly and pelvis
  • Cystoscopy —bladder
  • Colonoscopy —large intestine

Treatment

Pelvic pain is treated based on what's causing it. It may involve one or more methods. Common ones are:

Prevention

Chronic pelvic pain not be preventable. It has many causes. If you're at high risk for problems, talk to your doctor.