In addition to a general physical exam and a digital rectal exam, doctors use the following tests and procedures to diagnose chronic constipation and try to find the cause: Blood tests. Your doctor will look for a systemic condition such as low thyroid (hypothyroidism).
But doctors may diagnose interstitial cystitis without these tests if you have symptoms of IC and no other pelvic problems. The Role of a Gastroenterologist Some women with pelvic pain may need to see a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases. That's because irritable bowel syndrome is a common cause of pelvic pain. It may be the only cause or it may exist with other causes.
For more information, see Home Treatment. Who to see. For initial fertility questions and testing, you can see: A family medicine doctor. An internist. A nurse practitioner. For complete fertility testing, see an obstetrician/gynecologist with special training and experience in fertility problems. This doctor may be called a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist. When looking for a specialist, ask what percentage of a doctor's practice is fertility treatment. Also ask if he or she has training in reproductive endocrinology. To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.