Information From Your Health Care Provider

CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN

Basic information

description

Chronic pelvic pain is any pain in the pelvic area that has lasted for at least 6 months. Pelvic pain is a common problem in women and the pain symptoms will vary for each woman.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

The main symptom is pain in the pelvic and lower stomach and back area. Other terms women use to describe the problem include discomfort, pressure, aches, tenderness, or a heavy feeling.
The pain may be mild to severe. It may come and go, or it may be there all the time.
The pain may occur before or during menstrual periods. Some women may have the pain when they have sex or when they exercise.
Urination and bowel symptoms may occur, such as diarrhea or constipation.

causes

There are many possible causes for this type of pain and sometimes the exact cause is not found. It may involve health problems that are both physical (such as with menstrual periods) and mental (such as stress).

risk increases with

Prior health problem such as a pelvic infection or pelvic surgery.
History of abuse as a child or adult.
Having family members with chronic pelvic pain.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Since there are many causes, there is no sure way to prevent it.

expected outcomes

Pain symptoms can usually be helped with one or more types of treatment.

possible complications

Depression, sleep problems, poor appetite, and weight loss occur along with the pain.
Pain limits your normal activities and lifestyle.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Diagnosis begins with a physical exam plus a pelvic exam by your health care provider. You will be asked questions about the pain symptoms you are having. Different tests may be ordered to help find the cause of your pain. These include blood and urine studies, a pregnancy test, and a Pap smear (to check the cells in your cervix). X-rays may be needed. Minor surgery using a laparoscope may be necessary. This is an instrument with a thin, lighted tube. It is inserted into the body through a small incision. It can help diagnose and sometimes treat chronic pelvic pain at the same time.
Treatment will depend on any medical problems that are diagnosed.
Your health care provider will talk to you about the treatment options for chronic pain and what may work best for you. Options may include drugs (oral and injections), physical therapy, and possibly surgery. It may be helpful to consult a behavior counselor and learn how to relax and control stress in your life.
If the cause for the pain is unclear, you may be asked to keep a pain diary for 2 or more months. This can help you and your health care provider see how the pain symptoms relate to what is going on in your life day to day.
For self-care, apply a heating pad to the painful area. Soak in a bathtub.
To learn more: National Women's Health Information Center; (800) 994-9662; website: www.4woman.gov. or International Pelvic Pain Society, Two Woodfield Lake, 1100 E. Woodfield Rd., Ste 520, Schaumburg, IL 60173; (847) 517-8712 (not toll-free); website: www.pelvicpain.org.

medications

You may use nonprescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Drugs may be prescribed to treat any medical problems diagnosed or help control severe pain symptoms.
Drugs may be used to stop your menstrual periods for 2 months to see if this helps stop pain.

activity

Try to maintain a regular exercise program. It can help with the pain. It will also help you build strength and be more flexible.
Physical therapy may be recommended.