What is pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain refers to discomfort in the lower part of your abdomen, between your hips. It may come and go or be constant, and can range from mild to severe. For some people, it becomes a regular part of life — but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored.
The pain may be linked to your menstrual cycle, or it might occur at other times. It can also be associated with certain activities such as exercise, sex, or using the toilet.
Possible Causes
Pelvic pain can be caused by a range of conditions. Some of the most common include:
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome
- Scar tissue from previous surgery
- Musculoskeletal pain or nerve-related issues
Because there are many possible causes, it’s important to get the right diagnosis before treatment begins.
When should I seek help?
You should speak to a specialist if you are:
- Experiencing pain that affects your daily activities
- Finding it difficult to sit, walk or sleep comfortably
- In pain during or after sex
- Having pain with your periods that isn’t improving
- Feeling anxious or low because of the discomfort
Even if tests in the past haven’t found a cause, new treatment options may still help.
How we investigate pelvic pain
Your consultation will start with a thorough discussion about your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. We may recommend:
- A pelvic examination
- Ultrasound or MRI scans
- Blood tests
- Swabs or tests to rule out infection
- A laparoscopy if further investigation is needed
Our aim is always to take your symptoms seriously, find a clear explanation, and create a treatment plan that suits your needs.
Treatment options
Treatment will depend on the cause, but may include:
- Medication for pain relief or to treat underlying conditions
- Hormonal treatment (if related to periods or endometriosis)
- Physiotherapy or pelvic floor exercises
- Surgical treatment for cysts, fibroids or endometriosis
- Support for managing symptoms alongside other health issues like IBS
We also offer advice and referrals for managing the emotional and psychological impact of chronic pain, if needed.
Why Manchester Women’s Health?
- Expert in diagnosing and treating complex causes of pelvic pain
- Access to scans, keyhole surgery and advanced diagnostics
- A thoughtful and respectful approach to sensitive concerns
- Appointments available Monday to Saturday, without long waiting times