Definition

Pelvic pain occurs between the belly button and the hips and groin. It is chronic when it lasts for 6 months or more.

Male Pelvic Organs Includes bladder, prostate (under bladder), and the colon. © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Many health problems can cause chronic pelvic pain, such as:

• Infections, such as those in the bladder or urinary tract
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Problems with nerves and muscles
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Depression
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Diverticulitis
• Cancer
• Prior physical or sexual abuse

Risk Factors

The risk of chronic pelvic pain is higher in men who have any of the problems listed above.

Symptoms

Common problems are:

• Constant pain or a dull ache in the pelvis
• Burning, shooting pain
• An urgent need to pass stool or urine
• Pain that comes and goes
• Pain that ranges from mild to severe
• Pain with certain activities
• Pain while sitting for a long time

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You will also be asked about your pain.

Other tests may be:

• Blood and urine tests
• Cultures and swabs
• Tests for STIs
• Imaging tests, such as:
  • X-rays
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan
• Scoping tests to view structures on a video screen:
  • Laparoscopy—belly and pelvis
  • Cystoscopy—bladder
  • Colonoscopy—large intestine

Treatment

The cause will need to be treated. It may involve one or more methods. Choices are:

• Medicines, such as:
  • Antibiotics to treat certain types of infections
  • Pain relievers
  • Antidepressants
  • Muscle relaxants
• Nerve blocks to ease pain
• Surgery to treat the cause
• Counseling to learn how to cope with stress and pain

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem. It has many causes.