What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain | E and CPP IWK Health

Education - About Chronic Pelvic Pain

What is Chronic Pelvic Pain?

Chronic pain is defined as pain present more days than not for a duration of 6 months or more. Central sensitization is a process by which an original injury or condition heals, but pain continues because the body's alarm system has become hyper-sensitive, causing pain with movements that would normally be painless. This can apply to pain anywhere in the body, including the pelvic region.

CPP affects approximately 15% of individuals of reproductive age in Canada. Pelvic pain can be felt in the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina, vulva, bladder, bowel, hips and lower back. CPP often presents with a combination of physical symptoms (pain, trouble sleeping, fatigue, loss of appetite, and decreased libido), psychological symptoms (depression and anxiety), and changes in behaviour (change in relationships due to the physical and psychological problems).

Self-Management of Pain

While you are waiting for a referral or between appointments, there are many non-medical ways to manage and ease symptoms of chronic pain.

Pain Self-Management Program (PSMP)

Nova Scotia Health offers the Pain Self-Management Program (PSMP), a group-based, educational program for people living with long-term pain. Learn more here: Pain Self-Management Program (PSMP).

Physiotherapy

Patients can initiate physiotherapy prior to attending our clinic to help manage pain and learn some exercises they can perform at home. Some physiotherapists specialize in pelvic floor physiotherapy, which can be helpful for patients with pelvic pain.

A doctor's referral is not required to see a physiotherapist in Nova Scotia. A list of physiotherapists that deal specifically with pelvic health conditions in Nova Scotia can be found on the Nova Scotia Physiotherapy Association website (Physiotherapy Association of Nova Scotia (physiotherapy's.ca)).

Physical Exercise

Exercise reduces pain itself and symptoms of chronic pain by building muscle strength, reducing fatigue, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation. You can also reduce your pain sensitivity through exercise.

Heat

Heat helps increase blood flow which can reduce pain. This can be accomplished by applying a heating pad or warm cloth to the area you are experiencing pain or by taking a warm bath. The heat applied should be at a temperature comfortable enough for you to withstand, without burning yourself.

Relaxation and
Mindfulness

Meditation, yoga and deep-breathing exercises are examples of mindful practices. These practices can help in alleviating negative or worrisome thoughts and feelings about the pain you are experiencing. Relaxation and mindfulness have also been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often associated with chronic pain. There are many free online resources to help you practice mindfulness from home, including apps and YouTube.

Disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a medical professional if you have questions about your medical condition or treatment.