“Pelvic pain” is a general term used to describe pain that occurs mostly or only in the region below a woman’s belly button. This type of pain is a common reason women seek medical care. The pain can be steady, or it can come and go. Severe pain can interfere with daily living and quality of life. Many health problems can cause pelvic pain, yet the exact cause often is not known. Treatment depends on what triggers the pain, how intense the pain is, and how often the pain occurs. The NICHD conducts and supports research on many disorders that cause or are associated with pelvic pain. NICHD scientists are seeking to understand more fully why some women have pelvic pain, how pelvic pain affects functional abilities and quality of life, and which treatments are effective for pain-causing conditions.
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