What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain?

Chronic pelvic pain is more than just occasional discomfort; it’s an ongoing pain that can range from mild to severe. It might feel like a dull ache, sharp stabbing, or even a burning sensation. For some, it’s constant; for others, it comes and goes.

• Muscle dysfunction: Tightness or weakness in the pelvic floor muscles can lead to pain and discomfort.
• Nerve irritation: The pudendal nerve and other nerves in the pelvic region can become compressed or irritated.
• Endometriosis: This condition, where uterine lining tissue grows outside the uterus, is a common cause of CPP.
• Interstitial cystitis: Also known as painful bladder syndrome, this can cause bladder and pelvic discomfort.
• Post-surgical scarring: Adhesions from surgeries like C-sections or hysterectomies may contribute to pain.
• Pregnancy and childbirth-related trauma: These can stress or injure the pelvic floor muscles and nerves.

Symptoms of Chronic Pelvic Pain

• Persistent or intermittent pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or groin
• Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Painful bowel movements or urination
• Pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area
• Muscle spasms in the pelvic floor
• Low back pain or hip discomfort
• Difficulty sitting for long periods

What Causes Chronic Pelvic Pain?

1. Pelvic floor dysfunction: The pelvic floor muscles—responsible for supporting your bladder, uterus, and bowel—may become too tight, weak, or uncoordinated.
2. Inflammation: Conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or ongoing inflammation in surrounding tissues can cause discomfort.
3. Neuropathy: Irritated or compressed nerves, such as the pudendal nerve, can lead to chronic pain.
4. Hormonal changes: Shifts in hormone levels during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause can exacerbate CPP.
5. Surgical complications: Scar tissue or adhesions from surgeries like a hysterectomy, C-section, or appendectomy can create tension and pain in the pelvic region.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help

Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on the muscles and tissues of the pelvic area. Key components include:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

• Assessing muscle tone and strength
• Identifying trigger points or areas of tightness
• Evaluating posture and movement patterns

2. Manual Therapy

• Myofascial release to address tightness in connective tissues
• Trigger point therapy to relax overactive muscles
• Gentle internal or external pelvic floor muscle mobilization

3. Targeted Exercises

• Strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles
• Relax overactive or tight muscles
• Improve coordination and control of the pelvic floor

Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

• Reduce or eliminate pain
• Restore muscle function
• Improve daily activities and intimacy
• Regain confidence and control