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Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain can disrupt life, causing discomfort below the belly button and above the hips. Whether acute or chronic, it demands careful assessment. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment to restore comfort and enhance well-being.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain refers to discomfort in the lower abdomen, below the belly button. It can result from digestive, urinary, reproductive, or musculoskeletal issues. Causes may include irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis, urinary tract infections, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Chronic pelvic pain can interfere with daily life and may require a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and relief.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Nerve irritation, inflammation or pelvic floor muscle tension
Chronic prostatitis in men (ICD-10 N41.1)
Endometriosis, ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease in women
History of pelvic surgery or adhesions
Urinary tract disorders and recurrent infections
Psychological stress and anxiety contributing to muscle spasm
Signs and Symptoms
Dull ache or sharp pain in the lower abdomen
Pain with urination or bowel movements
Discomfort during or after sexual activity
Pelvic muscle tightness or spasms
Frequent or urgent need to urinate
Fatigue, sleep disturbance or low mood from chronic pain
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews the nature of your epigastric pain-its onset, timing with meals, relation to stress, alcohol or NSAID use-and performs a focused abdominal exam.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count to look for anemia or infection
Liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin)
Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
H. pylori serology or stool antigen if ulcer disease is suspected
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and biliary tree
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers or inflammation
CT scan of the abdomen if complications or masses are a concern
Functional Testing
When needed, studies such as gastric emptying scintigraphy or 24-hour pH monitoring help assess motility disorders or acid reflux.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Rarely, tissue biopsies during endoscopy or specialized motility manometry may be used to confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pelvic pain.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Drink more water and avoid caffeine or spicy foods
Eat more fiber to prevent constipation
Try deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to lower stress
Use a heating pad on your belly to ease discomfort
2. Medications
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Muscle relaxers for tight pelvic muscles
Low-dose antidepressants to calm nerve pain
Antibiotics if there is an infection like prostatitis
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Injections to relax painful muscles
Nerve blocks to reduce pain signals
Laparoscopy to look for endometriosis or scar tissue
Pelvic floor therapy with guided exercises and muscle training
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for pelvic pain?
R10.2 is used for general pelvic pain. N41.1 is used for chronic prostatitis in men.
How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks. Your timeline depends on the underlying cause and chosen treatments.
Do the procedures hurt?
Most minimally invasive procedures use local numbing or light sedation to keep you comfortable throughout.
Can food or diet help with pelvic pain?
Yes. A high-fiber diet, plenty of water, and avoiding bladder or bowel irritants can help reduce symptoms.
When should I see a doctor right away?
Contact us immediately if your pain is severe, if you develop a fever, or if you notice any unexplained bleeding.
Is pelvic pain a lifelong problem?
Not usually. With accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment, most people achieve lasting relief.
Do men and women need different treatments?
Sometimes. Women often need evaluation for endometriosis or ovarian issues; men may require prostatitis management or muscle-focused therapies.
