Pelvic Pain Specialist

What are the causes of chronic pelvic pain?

There are several medical conditions that can cause pelvic pain, and determining the underlying cause is one of the keys to finding the best treatment. Some causes of pelvic pain include:

• endometriosis

• ectopic pregnancy

• menstruation

• ovarian cancer

• miscarriage

• intrauterine fetal death

• ovulation pain

• ovarian cysts

• uterine fibroids

• pelvic inflammatory disease

Often, pelvic pain is caused by more than one condition, and causes can arise from problems affecting the reproductive, urinary or digestive systems. Sometimes, pain can be caused by problems with the connective tissues and muscles in the pelvic floor.

How can the cause of pelvic pain be diagnosed?

Dr. Naim will perform a comprehensive exam with a personal and family history to look for clues to the underlying cause of your pain. In addition, he'll perform a pelvic exam and may order other tests, such as ultrasound and blood work which can be performed right in the office. In some cases, he may perform a diagnostic exam called a laparoscopy to look inside your uterus.

How is pelvic pain treated?

First, Dr. Naim will try to identify the cause of the pain. If the cause is determined, treatment will focus on that underlying issue. But often, the cause of pelvic pain cannot be definitively determined. When that's the case, treatment will focus on reducing or eliminating the painful symptoms. With or without a known underlying cause, treatments may include:

• pain relievers

• antidepressants

• hormone therapy

• antibiotics

• physical therapy

• counseling

• laparoscopic surgery

• hysterectomy

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow outside the uterus. Endometriosis can cause considerable pain as well as irregular vaginal bleeding. Dr. Naim has special training in the treatment of endometriosis and pelvic pain.