Pelvic Pain Specialist
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John A. Whitfield, MD
Gynecology and Gynecologic Surgery located in Fort Worth, TX
Chronic pelvic pain can be debilitating for women. The pain can stop you from going to work or being able to spend time with loved ones. As a leading gynecologist, Dr. John A. Whitfield can work with you to find a solution for managing or treating chronic pelvic pain in the Fort Worth Area in Texas. Call his office or request an appointment online today.
Pelvic Pain Q & A
What is chronic pelvic pain?
Pelvic pain is a pain in your pelvic region (the area below your belly button and above your hips) and includes painful periods, painful intercourse, and generalized pain in this area not related to your period. When pain lasts more than six months, it is classified as chronic pelvic pain. The pain may be steady, or it may come and go. It can feel like a dull ache, or it can be sharp. Sometimes this type of pain can prevent women from doing daily activities or the things that they love.
What causes pelvic pain?
The pelvic region comprises many structures, and as a result, there are many possible causes of acute and chronic pelvic pain, including:
- Painful menstruation or ovulation
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cysts
- Endometriosis
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infection
- Internal swelling (edema)
- Internal hernia
- Miscarriage or intrauterine fetal death
- Tumors
- Structural defects in the uterus or other organs
How can the causes of pain be diagnosed?
Dr. Whitfield uses the most advanced techniques to determine the root cause of pelvic pain and provide the appropriate treatment plan. Diagnosis begins with a detailed discussion of the symptoms, and pelvic exam. In some cases, Dr. Whitfield may also suggest blood work, urinalysis, or an in-office ultrasound procedure.
What is laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique. During a laparoscopy, Dr. Whitfield uses very small incisions to get a view of what’s going on inside of you so that he can give you the best medical assessment. Laparoscopy can also be used in some minimally invasive medical procedures like those that to remove a cyst. Laparoscopy means that you will have a faster recovery time than traditional surgery.
What treatments are available for chronic pelvic pain?
After an accurate diagnosis has been made, treatment is totally dependent on the root cause of your chronic pelvic pain. Common treatments for chronic pelvic pain include medication and hormonal treatment. Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery can be done to remove cysts, scar tissue, fibroids, and endometriosis. And if needed, a hysterectomy, removal of the uterus, call also be done through the laparoscope.
For an appointment, consultation or second opinion to learn more and have Dr. Whitfield evaluate your pain, schedule an appointment online or by telephone today.
