If the cause of the pelvic pain is identified, it is treated directly, if possible.
Pain related to the menstrual cycle (such as cramps or endometriosis) may be treated with birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives.
Pain relievers may also be needed. Initially, pain is treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. Women who do not respond well to one NSAID may respond to another. If NSAIDs are ineffective, other pain relievers or hypnosis may be tried.Pain relievers may also be needed. Initially, pain is treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. Women who do not respond well to one NSAID may respond to another. If NSAIDs are ineffective, other pain relievers or hypnosis may be tried.
For some women with chronic pelvic pain, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and nerve pain medication, such as gabapentin or pregabalin, may be recommended. Opioids are not recommended for chronic pelvic pain other than in women with active cancer or for end-of-life palliative care. For some women with chronic pelvic pain, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and nerve pain medication, such as gabapentin or pregabalin, may be recommended. Opioids are not recommended for chronic pelvic pain other than in women with active cancer or for end-of-life palliative care.
If the pain involves muscles, rest, heat, or physical therapy may help.
In addition, pelvic floor physical therapy, sex therapy, or cognitive-behavioral therapy is recommended in women with myofascial pelvic pain or pain associated with mental health conditions.
Rarely, when women have severe pain that persists despite treatment with medications, surgery, such as laparoscopy to treat endometriosis or an ovarian cyst or hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus) or other procedures, can be done.
