Chronic Pelvic Pain refers to persistent or recurring pain for at least 6 months, in and around the pelvis (the area between the hips and belly button). It may or may not be associated with the menstrual period.
Chronic pelvic pain may be a symptom caused by one or more condition or in may cases is a chronic condition due to abnormal function of the nervous system called (neuropathic pain).
There may be a number of reasons for chronic pelvic pain.
- Gynaecological (Endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease)
- Gastrointestinal (Irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis)
- Urological (interstitial cystitis)
- Musculoskeletal (pelvic floor pain, abdominal myofascial pain)
- Body wide disorders like fibromyalgia
Examples of chronic pelvic pain include:
- Pain: severe, sharp and steady
- Dull Aching
- Intermittent Pain
- Could be associated with Headaches or Migraines
- Bladder Symptoms
- Pain opening Bowels
- Cramping
- Pressure Deep in the Pelvis
- Pain during Sexual Intercourse
- Pain from long periods of sitting
Your Next Steps
If you are experiencing these types of symptoms you may be experiencing Chronic Pelvic Pain and we recommend making an appointment with Dr Farjo. You may need a referral from your doctor (please see Patient Information or more information)
Dr Farjo will obtain a detailed history and perform a physical examination. She may request additional testing like blood tests, pelvic and/or renal ultrasound. Laparoscopy may be required in some cases to diagnose causes like endometriosis or if there is an ovarian cyst.
Treatment Options
Owing to the many factors that may cause chronic pelvic pain, there may be a range of treatment options including both non-surgical and surgical treatments and the best solution may be a combination of treatments. A multidisplinary approach to the treatment is often required.
Common treatments include:
- Medications: pain relievers, hormone treatments, antidepressants
- Therapy: relaxation techniques, physiotherapy, exercise, acupuncture
- Surgery: laparoscopic surgery or hysterectomy
- Lifestyle Remedies: relieving anxiety and stress, which may be the cause of Chronic Pelvic Pain
After your examination and once any necessary test results have arrived, Dr. Farjo will organise a post-examination meeting to advise you on your treatment options and discuss the most appropriate ones for you.