About the Pelvic Pain Clinic

Who we see

We see any woman who is experiencing pain in her pelvis (the region between the lowest rib and tops of the thighs) that has been present for six months or longer.

This includes women that have been previously diagnosed with conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis and interstitial cystitis.

We also offer a service to women who have been diagnosed with vulval pain or vaginismus, and any woman who might experience dyspareunia (pain with intercourse) once simple medical causes have been ruled out.

For many women a clear diagnosis may not be possible, but having a diagnosis is not necessary to access the team, or to benefit from the interventions we offer. Our multidisciplinary team will assess and offer treatment to any woman with pelvic pain, whether the cause is known or unknown.

What we do

Assessment

The first clinic visit involves an assessment with a doctor and includes a detailed history and usually an examination. We may suggest an assessment with a specialist physiotherapist either during this clinic or at a later date. We can also arrange assessments with counsellors, psychologists or other specialists if appropriate.

Treatment/management

By the time pain has been present for a long time there are usually multiple contributing factors, so we normally offer a treatment and/or management package.

This may include:

• painkillers
• hormonal therapies
• physiotherapy
• help with lifestyle modifications
• psychological therapies
• surgery.

Suggestions for this may be made at your first appointment. Our approach is in keeping with evidence from research and clinical guidelines which shows that most people benefit from a combined approach to managing pain.