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    TOP

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    TOP

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

Symptoms    TOP

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    TOP

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    TOP

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    TOP

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