Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is a common concern and can range from occasional discomfort to chronic, disruptive pain. It may be related to the reproductive system, urinary tract, digestive organs, or pelvic floor muscles, which is why an accurate diagnosis is essential. At Care for Womens Medical Group, our OB/GYN team in Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino Hills, and Eastvale listens carefully, evaluates thoroughly, and helps you find lasting relief.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis. It can occur suddenly (acute) or last for months (chronic). Pain may be linked to menstruation, sexual activity, urination, bowel movements, or no specific trigger at all. Patients often describe pain as:

• Cramping or aching
• Pressure or heaviness
• Sharp or stabbing
• Burning or radiating into the back, legs, or groin

Your symptom pattern, timing, and triggers help narrow the cause and guide testing.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain

Gynecologic causes:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Adenomyosis
• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Ectopic pregnancy (emergency)

Urinary causes:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome

Digestive causes:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Constipation or bowel obstruction
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal causes:

• Pelvic floor dysfunction or muscle tightness
• Scar tissue or adhesions after surgery, including cesarean section
• Hernia or nerve compression

Stress and past trauma can heighten pain perception and may worsen symptoms over time. We consider both physical and emotional factors in your care.

When to See a Provider

Schedule a visit with Care for Womens Medical Group if you:

• Have persistent or worsening pelvic pain that does not improve with medication
• Experience pain with intercourse, periods, urination, or bowel movements
• Notice cycle changes, unusual discharge, or fever
• Have nausea, abnormal bleeding, or pain that limits daily activities

If your pelvic pain is sudden and severe, especially with dizziness, bleeding, or fever, seek immediate medical care.

Diagnosis

We use a stepwise approach to identify the cause of your pain. Your visit may include:

• Pelvic exam to check for tenderness, masses, or infection
• Urinalysis and blood work to evaluate infection or inflammation
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures
• STI testing when infection is suspected
• MRI or CT scan for complex cases
• Laparoscopy when endometriosis or adhesions are suspected but not visible on imaging

This tailored evaluation allows us to pinpoint the source of pain and select effective treatments.

Treatment Options

Your plan depends on the underlying cause, symptom severity, and personal goals.

Medical treatment:

• NSAIDs for inflammation or menstrual cramps
• Antibiotics for infections
• Hormonal birth control to help with endometriosis, fibroids, or menstrual pain
• Bladder therapies or diet changes for interstitial cystitis or IBS

Lifestyle and non-medical support:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Stress management and mental health support
• Nutrition counseling when weight or diet influences symptoms
• Heat therapy, stretching, yoga, or gentle exercise routines

Procedures or surgery:

• Laparoscopic removal of endometriosis, cysts, or fibroids
• Hysteroscopy for intrauterine concerns
• Adhesiolysis to release scar tissue and improve mobility

We will partner with you to create a plan that addresses both immediate relief and long-term wellbeing.

Do Not Ignore Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain should not be something you just live with. If it is affecting your sleep, relationships, work, or daily routine, help is available. Our team provides compassionate, evidence-based care across the Inland Empire.

Schedule an appointment with Care for Womens Medical Group today to begin a thorough evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief.