8 Questions
What is a common concern for women with pelvic pain?
Fear of being told 'it's all in your head'
What is important for medical care professionals to do when managing pelvic pain?
Take the patient's pain seriously and address their fears
What can be used to allay fear of undiagnosed cancer or a life-threatening illness?
A smear test and ultrasound
What is the role of a pain psychologist in managing pelvic pain?
To provide emotional support and address underlying fears
What is a common life factor that can contribute to the overall pain experience?
A history of sexual assault
What is the benefit of encouraging the patient to remain active despite pelvic pain?
It can help to reassure the patient that they are not in danger
What is the physiotherapy adage that remains true for managing pelvic pain?
Motion is lotion
What type of cultural attitude towards the pelvis can contribute to the emotional aspect of pelvic pain?
A negative view of the pelvis as being dirty, shameful or troublesome
Study Notes
The Experience of Pelvic Pain in Women
- Women with pelvic pain often fear not being believed or being told that the pain is psychosomatic.
- Pelvic pain is associated with social, sexual, fertility, gender, and employment stigma concerns.
Managing Pelvic Pain
- Medical care can make a difference by:
- Reassuring the patient that their pain is taken seriously
- Addressing the patient's fears
- Identifying the patient's most pressing concerns (e.g., fear of undiagnosed cancer or infertility)
- A multidisciplinary team approach, including a pain psychologist, is ideal for managing pelvic pain.
Factors Contributing to Pelvic Pain
- Life factors, such as a history of sexual assault, can contribute to the overall pain experience.
- However, most women with pelvic pain have not been sexually assaulted.
Encouraging Self-Management
- Patients should be encouraged to remain active, even on days with pain.
- It is essential to reassure patients that they are not in danger and that they can still achieve positive things.
- Becoming overtired is not helpful, and giving up work rarely improves pain.
- The adage "motion is lotion" remains true, highlighting the importance of physical activity.
Cultural and Personal Attitudes
- Positive cultural, personal, and family attitudes towards the patient's pelvis can help manage pain.
- A negative view of the pelvis as dirty, shameful, or troublesome can exacerbate the emotional and physical aspects of pain.
Pelvic pain can be a complex and sensitive issue, requiring a holistic approach that considers the patient's emotional and social needs. This quiz explores the management of pelvic pain, including the importance of building self-esteem and confidence in patients.
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