Pelvic Pain & Infertility

Pelvic pain & infertility at a glance:

• Pelvic pain refers to pain in the pelvic region – the area below the belly button and between the hips.
• It can be associated with a range of systems in the body, including gynecologic, gastrointestinal, urinary or musculoskeletal issues.
• Infertility can sometimes accompany pelvic pain depending on the underlying cause and other factors related to an individual’s diagnosis. 

Causes of pelvic pain and infertility

Many conditions can cause both infertility and pelvic pain. Some causes of pelvic pain related to the reproductive system include:

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID); current or prior infections that involve the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
• Adhesions
• Fibroids
• Cervical cancer
• Sexually transmitted diseases

Symptoms of pelvic pain and infertility

Pelvic pain can be severe and steady or come and go. The intensity and character of pain also ranges from a dull ache, sharp pain, cramping, pressure or heaviness in the pelvis.

Other common symptoms include pain during intercourse, pain with menstruation and pain while having a bowel movement. 

Treatment of pelvic pain and infertility

Treatment for pelvic pain and infertility depends on the cause or diagnosis. A pelvic exam is necessary to determine all factors that could be causing symptoms within the reproductive system. Other tests may be needed to diagnose the source of the pain, including a Pap smear test, blood and urine tests, pregnancy test, and/or tests for sexually transmitted diseases.

Depending on a diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics for infection
• Pain medication
• Surgery to remove growths, cysts, or tumors
• Physical therapy for muscular pain
• Lidocaine trigger point injections for abdominal wall muscular pain