In 2017, the International Pelvic Pain Society designated May as Pelvic Pain Awareness Month in an effort to bring long overdue attention to persistent or chronic pelvic pain (CPP). I use the word “persistent” because “chronic” makes me feel helpless as a pelvic physio and I choose to believe that I can help…in some way!
Pelvic pain refers to pain in the pelvis and/or the abdomen, and this pain can refer to the low back, the buttocks and the hips. The pain is considered chronic if it persists for longer than 6 months.The root causes of CPP may be gynaecological, urological, gastrointestinal, or musculoskeletal. In many people, some of these system dysfunctions may be intertwined and there may be a number of signs and symptoms presenting themselves.
It is estimated that up to 32% of women and up to 12% of men worldwide suffer with chronic pelvic pain that can have significant consequences on their physical, mental, and social well being and still, CPP receives very little attention.
Some causes of chronic pelvic pain can include:
*endometriosis
*painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis)
*chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
*fibroids
*polycystic ovarian syndrome
*pelvic congestion
*pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
*bowel dysfunction (Crohn’s, IBS)
*prostatitis.
If you or someone you know is experiencing pelvic pain, please reach out to a pelvic floor physiotherapist! We have the knowledge and skill set to help and we would love to improve your quality of life! If you have questions, please reach out!~Ker xo