Q: I've had a dull pain in my lower tummy for the past year. Should I see a doctor?

Ask Our Expert About Pregnancy and Pelvic Pain

About Our Experts

Joseph E. Patruno, M.D., is Chief of the Division of Gynecology at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.

Practicing Medicine Since

1999

Education

B.A. in Psychology, 1989, Dickinson College
M.D., 1995, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI

Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Pennsylvania State University - Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

Board Certification

Board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Lauren Garges is a pelvic floor physical therapist at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.

• I've had a dull pain in my lower tummy for the past year. Should I see a doctor?
• I recently had a baby. If the pain was caused by my pregnancy, won't it go away by itself?
• I've heard that a pelvic physical therapist might be able to help me. What does a pelvic physical therapist do?

Q: I've had a dull pain in my lower tummy for the past year. Should I see a doctor?

A: Yes, you should. Chronic pelvic pain – defined as discomfort below the navel lasting for greater than 6 months affects 15 percent of women during their lifetime. Many women do not seek treatment for their symptoms. That's unfortunate, as pelvic pain is not normal, can be a sign of a serious medical condition, and is typically treatable.

Gynecologic conditions that cause pelvic pain include ovarian cysts, endometriosis (uterine tissue that grows outside the uterus), fibroid tumors, and pelvic infections. Problems with the bowel, bladder, and musculoskeletal systems may also be a source, or contribute to, chronic pelvic pain. Chronic pelvic pain also may include pain with menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea), discomfort with intercourse (dyspareunia), and soreness of the external genitals (vulvodynia).

Discuss your symptoms with your doctor. There's no need to suffer. See your gynecologist if you have any of the above symptoms.

Q: I recently had a baby. If the pain was caused by my pregnancy, won't it go away by itself?

A: When you delivered your baby, the muscles that hold the pelvis in place may have stretched, weakened, or become tender. Scarring from the vaginal tears or episiotomy may also be a source of postpartum pelvic pain. Also, breastfeeding and certain contraceptives may cause vaginal dryness that can worsen pelvic pain, especially during intercourse.

Your pelvic floor muscles should regain their pre-pregnancy shape and tone within the first several months after delivery. If pain persists beyond this time, you should contact your gynecologist.

Q: I've heard that a pelvic physical therapist might be able to help me. What does a pelvic physical therapist do?

A: A pelvic physical therapist will help you relax and release tension in your pelvic region. Many women tend to have abnormal weakness and/or tension of their pelvic floor muscles, either of which, can lead to pelvic pain. A specially trained 'pelvic' physical therapist is able to evaluate this muscle dysfunction, as well as posture, and recommend effective treatment options; many of which can be done at home. Treatment might also include massage, myofascial release, ultrasound, and biofeedback techniques.

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