Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a common problem. CPP is poorly understood and, consequently, poorly managed. This condition is best managed using a multidisciplinary approach. Chronic pelvic pain is defined as pain that occurs below the umbilicus (belly button) that lasts for at least six months. It may or may not be associated with menstrual periods. Chronic pelvic pain is not a disease, rather, it is a symptom that can be caused by several different conditions. Common causes of CPP in men include chronic (nonbacterial) prostatitis, chronic orchalgia, and prostatodynia. Possible causes of chronic pelvic pain endometriosis is a problem with the lining of the uterus. Tissue from the lining of the uterus moves through the fallopian tubes and gets on your ovaries.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection in the female reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries). Many women with pelvic congestion syndrome, spend many years trying to get an answer to why they have this chronic pelvic pain. Fibroids are benign growths (not cancer) in the muscular wall of the uterus. CPP is most common among reproductive-aged women, especially those aged 26-30 years. CPP is a common problem. It affects approximately 1 in 7 women Possible treatments for chronic pelvic pain include antidepressants can be helpful for a variety of chronic pain syndromes. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. Oral contraceptive pills prescribed as monthly cycles or as "long cycles."

Stopping ovulation (release of eggs from the ovary) with birth control pills. Doxycycline, an antibiotic used to treat some causes of pelvic inflammatory disease. Amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor) are the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) used most frequently for chronic pain. Psychophysiological therapy includes reassurance, counseling, relaxation therapy, a stress management program, and biofeedback techniques. Biofeedback may be helpful in some patients when combined with medications. Ultrasound may be used to exclude other problems that might be causing pelvic pain. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PT) is often helpful for women with tight and tender pelvic muscles.

Chronic Pelvic Pain - Prevention and Treatment Tips

1. Tizanidine may improve the inhibitory function in the central nervous system and can provide pain relief.

2. Biofeedback may be helpful in some patients when combined with medications.

3. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor).

4. Antidepressants can be helpful for a variety of chronic pain syndromes.

5. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen.

6. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PT) is often helpful for women with tight and tender pelvic muscles.

7. Biofeedback may be helpful in some patients when combined with medications.