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Pelvic Discomfort
Struggling with lower abdominal pain or pressure? Pelvic discomfort can disrupt life, linked to menstrual cycles, digestive issues, or underlying conditions. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen combines expertise and personalized care to diagnose and alleviate your pelvic pain.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Pregnancy-related changes
Period-related pain
Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery
Constipation or trapped gas
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or pressure low in the pelvic region
Lower back pain
Bloating or a heavy feeling in the pelvis
Pain during urination or bowel movements
Pain during sexual activity
Spotting or heavy bleeding between periods
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He asks about pain onset, duration, menstrual patterns, pregnancy history, and any prior surgeries or infections.
Physical Examination
A focused exam of the abdomen and pelvis to identify areas of tenderness, masses, or rigidity.
Laboratory Tests
Blood panels (CBC, CRP) to assess for infection or inflammation.
Urinalysis to rule out urinary tract infections.
Imaging Studies
Pelvic ultrasound or MRI to visualize the uterus, ovaries, fibroids, or endometriosis.
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan if epigastric pain or gallbladder issues are suspected.
Endoscopy and Colonoscopy (if indicated)
Upper endoscopy for epigastric pain to look for ulcers or gastritis; colonoscopy if IBS or colonic causes are likely.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pelvic discomfort.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat small, frequent meals to reduce gas and bloating
Drink plenty of water and increase fiber intake for better digestion
Avoid foods that trigger cramps or excess gas
Incorporate gentle exercise like walking or stretching
2. Medications
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen to ease discomfort
Muscle relaxants for relief from pelvic cramps
Antibiotics when an infection (UTI or PID) is present
Hormonal treatments to manage endometriosis symptoms
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Laparoscopy to diagnose and treat pelvic organ issues
Surgical removal of fibroids or endometriosis lesions
Nerve blocks or targeted injections for ongoing pelvic pain control
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a doctor for pelvic discomfort?
If your pain lasts more than a few days, interferes with daily activities, or comes with fever, it's time to seek medical attention.
Can pregnancy cause pelvic discomfort?
Yes. A growing uterus and hormonal changes can stretch muscles and press on nerves, leading to pelvic pressure or pain.
How long is recovery after laparoscopy?
Most patients feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks and experience minimal scarring from the small incisions.
Do diet changes help pelvic pain?
Absolutely. Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, and boosting fiber can reduce gas, bloating, and cramps.
Is pelvic pain after your period normal?
Mild cramps are common, but intense or prolonged pain should be evaluated to rule out conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.
Can back pain and pelvic discomfort be related?
Yes. Pain originating in the pelvic organs or muscles can radiate to the lower back due to shared nerve pathways.
Are there non-surgical treatments for pelvic pain?
Yes. Options include physical therapy, targeted injections or nerve blocks, hormonal therapies, and prescription medications before considering surgery.
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