Pelvic Pain will affect approximately 33% of all women at least one time in their lives. For 12-20% of these women, pelvic pain may progress to being chronic. There are many different causes of pelvic pain, including infection, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis. A common type of pelvic infection is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes, and may be caused by sexually transmitted disease. Infections of the kidneys, bladder, or urethra can also cause pelvic pain. If an infection is suspected, treatment with antibiotics is necessary in order to alleviate this type of pelvic pain.

Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes, and can be very painful. Ectopic pregnancy can lead to serious complications, and warrants surgical intervention. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries, and typically cause pain during mid-menstrual cycle. These cysts usually resolve spontaneously, but sometimes require surgery for removal. Endometriosis is a condition in which uterine tissue grows on other reproductive organs, and can cause severe pain and cramping during menses. Certain medications and surgical procedures can help to lessen the pain associated with endometriosis.