Pelvic Pain Specialist

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain is a general term used to describe lower abdominal pain which can vary significantly from one patient to another. Pelvic pain may be acute or chronic and may be present all the time or intermittent, such as during sex or menstruation. The pain must last six months or longer for Dr. Swainston to diagnose it as chronic pelvic pain. Some acute causes of pelvic surgery need immediate treatment.

What are the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain?

There are several underlying problems that can cause chronic pelvic pain, some of which don’t affect the reproductive system at all. Conditions of the reproductive system that might cause pelvic pain include menstruation, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids, congested pelvic syndrome, among others.

Sometimes pelvic pain is caused by problems in other systems, such as appendicitis, gallbladder infection, constipation, diverticulitis, kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, or ulcerative colitis.

How is pelvic pain diagnosed?

The best way to determine the cause of pelvic pain is through comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, which may include ultrasound, lab work, and other testing.

What is the most effective treatment for chronic pelvic pain?

There ‘s no one-size-fits-all treatment for pelvic pain. The first step in treating pelvic pain is identifying the underlying cause. Once Dr. Swainston determines the cause, a comprehensive treatment plan can be customized to improve the patient’s condition in a safe and effective way.

Treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, supplements, or surgery. When surgery is required, Dr. Swainston offers state-of-the-art robotic-assisted surgical procedures including assisted lysis of adhesions, fulguration or resection of endometriosis, and hysterectomy, for maximum patient comfort and convenience.

What are the risks and benefits of surgery?

Inherent risk accompanies all operations, primarily associated with the use of general anesthesia. However, the minimally-invasive procedures offered by Dr. Swainston are low-risk in comparison to traditional, invasive surgeries and provide a more comfortable patient experience and faster recovery.

Dr. Swainston only recommends surgery when he believes the benefits outweigh the risks. The doctor and his team clearly explain the procedure, the potential benefits, and the risks associated to empower each patient to make the most educated decision possible.

We offer Minimally Invasive Surgery, Robotic Surgery, and Fibroids. Call us to book your appointment today.