Your Care Instructions

Pelvic pain, or pain in the lower belly, can have many causes. Often pelvic pain is not serious and gets better in a few days. If your pain continues or gets worse, you may need tests and treatment. Tell your doctor about any new symptoms. These may be signs of a serious problem.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Rest until you feel better. Lie down, and raise your legs by placing a pillow under your knees.
• Drink plenty of fluids. You may find that small, frequent sips are easier on your stomach than if you drink a lot at once. Avoid drinks with carbonation or caffeine, such as soda pop, tea, or coffee.
• Try eating several small meals instead of 2 or 3 large ones. Eat mild foods, such as rice, dry toast or crackers, bananas, and applesauce. Avoid fatty and spicy foods, other fruits, and alcohol until 48 hours after your symptoms have gone away.
• Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• You can put a heating pad, a warm cloth, or moist heat on your belly to relieve pain.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have a new or higher fever.
• You have unusual vaginal bleeding.
• You have new or worse belly or pelvic pain.
• You have vaginal discharge that has increased in amount or smells bad.
• You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
• You have symptoms of sepsis, such as:
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Feeling very sick.
  • Severe pain.
  • A fast heart rate.
  • Cool, pale, or clammy skin.
  • Feeling confused.
  • Feeling very sleepy, or you are hard to wake up.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:

• You do not get better as expected.