Pelvic Pain Specialist

Embry Women’s Health has extensive expertise and advanced training in identifying the causes of pelvic pain and providing treatment to relieve symptoms, helping women throughout the Mesa, AZ, region to receive the most appropriate care so they can feel confident about their health.Pelvic pain is one of the most common symptoms encountered in women with symptoms ranging from minor to chronic and excruciating. There are many possible causes. By taking a detailed history and performing focused examination followed by appropriate laboratory and imaging studies, we can make a correct diagnosis and formulate an effective treatment plan.

Pelvic Pain Q & A

What Does Pelvic Pain Indicate?

Pelvic or abdominal pain is felt in the middle and lower parts of the abdomen and is very common in women. Frequently, pelvic or abdominal pain is treated based on when it takes place, which symptoms are present, and whether or not the woman is pregnant.  Organs which can create abdominal or pelvic pain include:

  •  Uterus
  •  Ovaries
  •  Fallopian Tubes
  •  Bladder
  •  Bowel

What causes pelvic pain?

The pelvic region comprises many structures, and as a result, there are many possible causes for acute and chronic pelvic pain, including:

  • painful menstruation or ovulation
  • uterine fibroids
  • ovarian cysts
  • endometriosis
  • ectopic pregnancy
  • pelvic inflammatory disease
  • infection
  • internal swelling (edema)
  • internal hernia
  • miscarriage or intrauterine fetal death
  • tumors
  • structural defects in the uterus or other organs

Some types of pelvic pain can emanate from issues affecting the pelvic floor, including uterine and vaginal prolapse, and sometimes, conditions occurring elsewhere, such as in the digestive system, may cause referred pelvic pain.

How can the causes of pain be diagnosed?

We use the most advanced techniques to determine the causes of pelvic pain so they can be treated appropriately. Diagnosis begins with a thorough discussion of the symptoms followed by a physical and pelvic exam and Pap test. Blood work, urinalysis and other diagnostic testing such as ultrasound, CT scan or in-office evaluations to look at the uterus, vagina, cervix and fallopian tubes may also be ordered to look for signs of specific causes.

What is a hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is an in-office diagnostic exam that uses a thin, flexible instrument called a hysteroscope that is inserted through your vagina to look inside your uterus and your fallopian tubes. It can also be used to aid in performing some minor procedures as well.

What is laparoscopy?

Laparoscopy is a minimally-invasive surgical technique that uses very small incisions to perform surgical procedures and medical assessments. It offers a much faster recovery time and less discomfort compared to traditional surgery.

What treatments are available for chronic pelvic pain?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your pain and may include medication, minimally-invasive procedures, laparoscopic surgery or general surgery. When an underlying cause cannot be determined, your treatment will focus on relieving the symptoms.

How Will Abdominal and Pelvic Pain Be Evaluated and Treated?

Before we can treat the symptom adequately, we need to arrive at a correct diagnosis.  We will need to inquire about the person’s symptoms and detailed medical history. We will also perform a physical examination.  Frequently we will need to order laboratory tests such as urine test, blood test, and possibly ultrasound.  Once we have a working diagnosis, we can proceed with a treatment plan which may include trial of medication, dietary changes and exercises, physical therapy, and surgery.  Sometimes surgery is needed for diagnosis as well as treatment.  When surgery is needed, most often this can be done with a minimally invasive approach such as laparoscopy which allows us to view the inside of the abdomen and pelvis.  This procedure employs a camera inserted through a small incision which allows the surgeon to identify the problem inside the woman’s body and also treat many conditions that may be found.  This is done as an outpatient and most women can return to normal activities the next day.

OUR PATIENTS SAY

I first chose to come to Embry Womens Health because it was near my home and they took my insurance. I’ve been coming back because JoEllen is AMAZING! The whole office is so welcoming and comforting, I’ve moved 20 miles away and I STILL go to see JoEllen for all of my women’s healthcare. I will literally plan my days off around an appointment so I can continue being a patient here.
I can’t say enough good things about Embry Women’s Health and hope to be able to be a patient for life!

5 Stars – Yelp – 11/13/2019

MAGGIE S.

I still love this place. It’s my second year as a patient here, and they still treat me so well. Every concern that I had was taken seriously and my doctor gave me some things to help with a couple of them. The office also isn’t really cold (which I’ve found to be a problem at some offices) so you won’t be freezing during your exam. She’s definitely the best doctor I have been to and recommend to every woman to look into coming here. Also, all of your test results are available online through a patient portal, and you can also schedule new appointments and fill out all of your patient information forms ahead of time on there. This makes checking in for your appointment super quick and easy.

5 Stars – Yelp – 10/31/2019

SHANA E.

This was my first visit at this office and it was so much better then a visit I’ve had at a different gynecologist. The ladies were genuinely friendly and helpful and all very knowledgeable. They make you feel comfortable and safe. It’s so hard to find a gynecologist that fits your needs and I’m very happy to say I found mine.

5 Stars – Yelp – 4/10/2018

KELLY M.

Insurance

Embry Women’s Health is committed to providing quality, affordable health care. We’re in-network with all major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare. No insurance? No problem. We offer a simple fee schedule for those who wish to pay out-of-pocket. Click the button below for our complete list and more information:

TESTIMONIALS

Words from our patients

JoEllen is AMAZING! Not only is she professional- she makes your whole experience comfortable. If you’re looking for a professional that never judges your situation and treats you very well- I would definitely recommend this office!

5 Stars – Yelp

Patient Image Yelp Layna HLayna H., Yelp

It is refreshing to meet a practitioner who sees the whole patient and not just a series of symptoms. JoEllen is willing to spend the time to ask questions and really listen to the responses. I have seen JoEllen several times and I have always appreciated how much time she spends with each appointment and her pragmatic approach with solutions.  I feel like my health drives the appointment and not the schedule. Finding JoEllen’s practice was like finding a needle in a haystack, a caring practitioner who encourages patients to listen to their bodies and to be their own best advocate.

5 Stars – 10/11/2018

Patient Image Kathy NKathy N., Yelp

Friendly staff. JoEllen is incredibly kind, patient and answers all of my questions whenever I see her. I don’t feel like I am being rushed when I am there, it is very nice.

5 Stars – 10/4/2018

Patient Image Ashley DAshley D., Yelp

I was super impressed. NP Eva was wonderfully personable and professional. Front desk staff (thanks, Mia) was kind and thoughtful. They have snacks and drinks in the waiting room. It’s super clean and the view is lovely. It sits right on the lake at Dobson Ranch.

5 Stars – 5/24/2021

“I started seeing Joellen earlier this year and I have had nothing but good experiences every time I have gone back. She is very down to earth and listens to any concerns. I would highly recommend Embry Womens Health.”

5 stars – 09/28/2018

Patient Image Jeannie DJeannie D., Yelp