Women’s health in Katy: Is pelvic pain a sign of gynecological problems?

Pelvic pain refers to any pain felt in the lower part of the torso. Most women are familiar with dysmenorrhea, more commonly known as menstrual cramps. It usually occurs during, or right before, the menstrual cycle, and subsides in two or three days. However, not all pain is caused by normal cramps. If you experience pelvic pain that seems abnormally severe, or out of the ordinary compared to your past periods, it is advisable to consult your gynecologist.

There are many potential causes of pelvic pain. Some are, and some are not, related to the menstrual cycle. A few of the many possibilities include:

Appendicitis – Inflammation or infection of the appendix can cause a sharp pain in the lower abdomen, on the right side. It can also cause fever and vomiting. Without treatment, appendicitis can be life threatening.
Irritable bowel syndrome – This is a digestive disorder that can cause abdominal pain and cramps, as well as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
Mittelschmerz – Commonly known as painful ovulation occurs midway between your periods. It usually only lasts a few hours.
Ectopic pregnancy – Pelvic pain is especially concerning if there is a chance you could be pregnant. An ectopic pregnancy, sometimes called a tubal pregnancy, occurs when the embryo implants somewhere outside of the uterus. It can cause sharp pains and cramps, usually worse on one side.
Uterine fibroids – These benign growths on the wall of the uterus are usually harmless, and may not require treatment. However, in some cases they can cause pelvic pain, problems during your menstrual cycle, and difficulty conceiving.
Endometriosis – During the menstrual cycle, a layer of endometrial tissue builds up and breaks down, usually in the uterus. However, in women with endometriosis some of this tissue grows on other parts of the body such as the intestines, bladder, of fallopian tubes. This can cause pain as it breaks down, because it has no way to leave the body.
Pelvic organ prolapse – With this condition, organs such as the uterus or bladder drop, causing pelvic pain, lower back pain, and other problems.

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It is virtually impossible to self-diagnose pelvic pain. Dr. Taryll Jenkins, of Katy, TX, can determine the cause of the problem, and explain your options. He believes in gentle, non-surgical therapies when possible. If surgery is needed, Dr. Jenkins uses the minimally invasive laparoscopic technique, for greater comfort and less downtime.

Don’t take chances with your health. If you are experiencing abnormal pelvic pain, call 855-346-8610 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenkins today.

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Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine
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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L. Jenkins, MD received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and Doctorate of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.

Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelors of Science in Biological Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with high quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program in 2012 and since then has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.

Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy and Houston, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.

Yara Ramirez, MD earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston where she also completed her residency. She won the Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.

Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.