Chronic Pelvic Pain in Woman
#WomenChronicPelvicPain #PelvicPain
Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is defined as having pain that lasts six months or longer. The pain is located below the umbilicus (bellybutton) and between your hips. CPP can have many causes and in some cases, be a symptom of a condition. It can also be considered as a condition on its own. It often will interfere with your quality of life when it comes to work, sleep, physical activity and mental wellbeing.
The pain frequency, intensity and duration varies but typically is described as sharp, stabbing and/or dull ache. It can be a steady level of discomfort or fluctuates.
Some of the signs and symptoms associated with Pelvic Pain and dysfunction are:
· Pain while sitting or standing
· Pain during or after sexual activity
· Pain during or after bowel movement
· Perineal Pain
· Suprapubic Pain
· Abdominal Pain
· Groin Pain
· Low Back Pain/Spasm
· Coccydynia (Tail Bone Pain)
· Incontinence
· Constipation
They are many conditions and causes for women experiencing pelvic pain and dysfunction. Some of the most common I see in the clinic are:
· Endometriosis
· Pre-Menstrual Symptoms (PMS)
· Scar Tissue/Pelvic Adhesions (Ex: Surgery)
· Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
· Dysmenorrhea
· Prolapsed organs
· Pudendal neuralgia/Pudendal Nerve Entrapment
· Trauma
· Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
· Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
The unfortunate reality is many women have been told that pain and/or discomfort is part of "that time of the month". Or, after giving birth that "you will just need to live with it". I am here to tell you, you don't. You have options available to you and these may include Traditional Chinese Medicine - Acupuncture or Remedial Massage Therapy. Many health practitioners, such as myself, are working hard on informing other women that treatment is available, and with great long-term success.
Part of a good treatment plan is developing self-care practices which will provide on-going support for your body such as:
Breathing Exercise/Mindfulness Meditation
Foam Rolling
Massage Balls
Remedial Exercises
Stretching
Heating Pads
Exercise
If you suffer from Chronic Pelvic Pain, please make sure to book an appointment with your Medical Health Professional. It is important to rule out conditions which may require immediate medical attention.
