Two  women in their late forties talking

​Diagnosing pelvic pain

Though common, the cause of pelvic pain can be challenging to diagnose. You can trust the women's health specialists at The Christ Hospital Health Network to provide relief for your symptoms. Our team of gynecologists, and specialists at our Pelvic Floor Center, use advanced technology to find the answers you deserve.

To diagnose your pelvic pain, your physician will first take a complete medical history and discuss past conditions that may be related to your current pain. Be prepared to answer questions such as:

  • When and where is the pain? Did it begin suddenly?

  • Is the pain related to your period, sexual activity or urination?

  • How long does it last?

  • What does the pain feel like—dull, sharp, or throbbing?

A pelvic and abdominal exam may be done, then your doctor may do some of these further tests:
  • Blood tests—examination of a small amount of your blood

  • Colonoscopy—used to view the inside of your colon

  • Cystoscopy—a scope with a tiny camera to see inside the urethra and bladder

  • Laparoscopy—used to look at abdominal and female pelvic organs

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images

  • Pelvic ultrasound—uses high-frequency sound waves to capture live images from the inside of your pelvis

Next steps

Once the cause of your pelvic pain is diagnosed, your doctor will discuss your medical and surgical treatment options.

Need a doctor? Make an appointment with one of our Women’s Health experts.