Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

Chronic pelvic pain is experienced by about one in six women and is intense pain that lasts longer than ordinary period pain.

Sometimes chronic pelvic pain can be caused by chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, which is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antiobiotics. However, for many women their pain is longer lasting and can be caused by conditions such as endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, fibroids, or scar tissue from surgeries such as caesarian section or a hysterectomy.

Common symptoms of chronic pelvic pain include a generalised feeling of pain which may be described as steady, intermittent, dull, sharp, cramping, or a heaviness deep within the pelvis. Women also may experience pain during intercourse, when having a bowel movement or urinating, or pain on sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time.

Medical treatment for chronic pelvic pain includes anti-inflammatory painkillers, hormone therapy, and surgery to remove some or more of the affected tissues (especially in the case of endometriosis).

Myofascial Release for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

Myofascial release and trigger point therapy, along with relaxation techniques, are highly effective treatments for many women who have chronic pelvic pain syndrome. This is because the symptoms are caused by restrictions in the soft tissues of the pelvis and abdomen, not bacterial infection. Scar tissue from previous surgeries may create further restriction, in which case myofascial release can be effective in breaking this down.

For further information about chronic pelvic pain in men, please see our section about Prostatitis.

Please also see case studies and testimonials.