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.