Chronic Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain is ongoing pain felt below the belly button that persists for six months or longer and can significantly affect daily life, relationships and overall wellbeing. Some women describe it as dull or aching; others experience sharp lower abdominal pain, cramping or discomfort that comes and goes.

Because there are many possible causes, reaching a diagnosis often requires a thorough assessment by a qualified pelvic pain specialist. Dr Joseph’s care focuses on identifying the underlying cause and developing an individualised treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and long-term health.

Chronic pelvic pain rarely has a single cause. It may involve the reproductive system, digestive tract, urinary system, muscles or nerves.

Common conditions include:

• Endometriosis
• Adenomyosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Fibroids
• Pelvic adhesions from previous surgery
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome
• Bladder conditions including interstitial cystitis
• Nerve-related pain

Some women describe uterus pain, though pain originating from the uterus may actually be referred from surrounding pelvic structures. This is why accurate assessment is essential before treatment begins.

Pelvic pain symptoms vary considerably between individuals. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects work, exercise and sleep.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent pelvic pain
• Lower abdominal pain
• Pressure or heaviness within the pelvis
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Pain during menstruation or ovulation
• Pain when passing urine or opening the bowels
• Pelvic pain during pregnancy or after childbirth in some women

These symptoms can overlap with many conditions, but persistent or worsening pain should never be ignored. Early assessment generally leads to earlier treatment and better outcomes.

A comprehensive diagnosis begins with listening carefully to your symptoms and understanding your medical history.

Your specialist may recommend:

• A detailed physical examination
• Pelvic ultrasound
• Blood tests
• MRI imaging where appropriate

Further investigations such as laparoscopy if endometriosis or other pelvic conditions are suspected
Because chronic pelvic pain can involve several body systems, diagnosis often involves ruling out possible causes methodically before identifying the condition responsible for your symptoms. This approach ensures treatment is based on evidence rather than assumptions.

Effective treatment addresses both the underlying condition and the pain itself. Every woman’s experience is different, so treatment should always be personalised.

Depending on the diagnosis, options may include:

• Medication to reduce pain or inflammation
• Hormonal therapies for certain gynaecological conditions
• Advanced laparoscopic surgery where appropriate
• Pelvic floor physiotherapy
• Lifestyle and dietary modifications
• Psychological support when chronic pain affects emotional wellbeing

Long-term pain often involves more than one contributing factor, which is why a multidisciplinary approach tends to produce the best results for both pain and quality of life.

Many women assume ongoing pelvic discomfort is simply part of life. Persistent pelvic pain is not something you should accept as normal.
If your pain lasts for several months, interferes with daily activities, or you experience recurring uterus pain, seek assessment from a pelvic pain specialist. Early investigation may identify conditions that become harder to treat if left unmanaged.

With Dr Joseph, women receive compassionate, evidence-based care focused on understanding the cause of their symptoms and building an individual treatment plan that supports both immediate relief and long-term wellbeing.