Is Pelvic Pain Normal? Myths, Causes & When to See an OBGYN

Chronic pelvic pain affects 1 in 7 women of childbearing age in the United States according to NIH, yet far too often, it's dismissed as "just part of being a woman". Whether you're experiencing occasional discomfort or persistent agony, it's time to separate myth from fact and understand when pelvic pain signals something more.

At OBGYN Care, we believe no woman should suffer in silence. Let's walk through what your body may be telling you—and how we can help.

Myth vs. Fact: Is Pelvic Pain “Normal”?

Myth: “Pelvic pain is just part of my cycle. I have to live with it.”
Fact: Mild discomfort during your period or ovulation can be normal—but persistent, severe, or disruptive pelvic pain is not. It's your body signaling that something isn’t right and deserves professional attention.

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain refers to any discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. It can come and go or be constant; dull or sharp; mild or debilitating. Since the pelvis houses reproductive, urinary, digestive, and musculoskeletal systems, pain in this area can have many sources.

You should consider consulting an OBGYN if the pain is:

• Severe and not relieved by over-the-counter remedies
• Chronic, lasting six months or longer (even on and off)
• Disruptive to daily life—work, sleep, relationships, etc.
• Accompanied by symptoms like:
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Painful intercourse
• Fever or chills
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Digestive or urinary changes

What Could Be Causing Your Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. An experienced OBGYN can identify the underlying cause, which may include:

• Endometriosis – Affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, pain, and infertility.
• Uterine Fibroids – Affect up to 80% of women by age 50. These non-cancerous growths can cause heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure.
• Ovarian Cysts – Common in women of all ages. While often harmless, larger cysts can rupture and cause sharp pain.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – An infection, often from STIs. The CDC reports over 1 million women annually are diagnosed with PID in the U.S.
• Adenomyosis – May affect up to 20% of women, particularly those over 35.
• Interstitial Cystitis – Chronic bladder pain condition affecting millions of women in the U.S.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Affects twice as many women as men, and pelvic-area pain is a common symptom.
• Musculoskeletal Conditions – Sometimes overlooked, but increasingly recognized as a source of pelvic pain, especially postpartum.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Ignoring pelvic pain doesn't make it go away—it often makes things worse. Timely care offers many benefits:

• Accurate Diagnosis – Testing and imaging help identify the exact cause
• Tailored Treatment – Options may include medication, physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or minimally invasive procedures
• Improved Quality of Life – Better energy and emotional well-being
• Prevention of Complications – Avoiding infertility, organ damage, or long-term chronic pain

You Don’t Have to Just Live With It

Your health, comfort, and peace of mind matter. If you're experiencing pelvic pain that concerns you, reach out today. At OBGYN Care, we take your symptoms seriously and work with you to find answers—and relief.