Plagued by Pelvic Pain? 3 Common Causes You Shouldn't Ignore

Pelvic pain can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and often confusing. Whether you have a dull ache that won’t go away or a sharp pain that interferes with your daily routine, pelvic pain isn’t something you should brush off. 

Here at Bethany Women’s Healthcare in Phoenix, Arizona, we understand that it can affect people of all ages and genders, and while some causes are temporary, it’s possible you might need medical attention. 

If pelvic pain is affecting your life, Giuseppe F. Ramunno, MD, and our team share three common causes you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Pelvic floor dysfunction

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. When these muscles become too tight, weak, or uncoordinated, pelvic floor dysfunction can occur. T

This condition can cause pain in your lower abdomen, hips, tailbone, or groin and may worsen with sitting, exercise, or bathroom use.

Other symptoms can include:

• Pain during or after intercourse
• Difficulty starting or fully emptying your bladder or bowels
• A feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvis

Pelvic floor dysfunction is often linked to childbirth, surgery, injury, chronic stress, or repetitive strain. Physical therapy, guided exercises, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce symptoms when addressed early.

2. Endometriosis and gynecologic conditions

For many women, pelvic pain isn’t random. It’s often linked to gynecologic conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease. These issues can quietly disrupt your day-to-day life and are often misunderstood or overlooked.

Take endometriosis, for example. It happens when tissue similar to the lining of your uterus grows where it doesn’t belong. That misplaced tissue can trigger inflammation and ongoing pain, especially around your period, making what should be “normal” monthly discomfort feel anything but normal.

Common signs include:

• Painful periods or chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Heavy or irregular menstrual cycles
• Lower back or abdominal pain

These conditions are frequently underdiagnosed or dismissed as “normal” period pain. However, persistent or worsening symptoms deserve evaluation. Treatment options range from medication and hormone therapy to minimally invasive procedures, depending on the cause and severity.

3. Digestive or urinary issues

Not all pelvic pain starts in the reproductive system. Digestive and urinary conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), interstitial cystitis, urinary tract infections, or kidney stones can also cause pelvic discomfort. This type of pain may be accompanied by bloating, changes in bowel habits, frequent urination, or a burning sensation.

You might notice:

• Pelvic pain associated with eating or bowel movements
• Pressure or pain in your bladder area
• Urgency or frequent trips to the bathroom

Because these systems are closely connected, pelvic pain can feel hard to pinpoint. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether the source is gastrointestinal, urinary, or musculoskeletal.

When to reach out to our team

Pelvic pain isn’t something you have to live with. If pain is persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily activities, it’s time to talk to Dr. Ramunno. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment and better long-term outcomes.

Listening to your body and seeking care when something feels off is the first step toward relief and getting back to living comfortably.

Give us a call today at 623.323.5861 or schedule your appointment online by clicking here.