Condition guide
Chronic pelvic pain
Understand multidisciplinary assessment and treatment pathways for persistent pelvic pain in Cape Town.
In brief
What is chronic pelvic pain?
Chronic pelvic pain is persistent or recurrent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis, commonly lasting six months or more. It can have more than one contributor, including gynaecological, bladder, bowel, nerve, muscular and psychosocial factors.
This page provides general education, not a diagnosis or personalised treatment plan. Assessment and treatment are tailored to your health, findings and preferences.
Symptoms people may notice
- Persistent lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain linked to periods, intercourse, bladder filling or bowel movements
- Pelvic floor muscle tenderness
- Symptoms affecting sleep, work, movement or emotional wellbeing
How assessment may proceed
- A structured history of timing, triggers and previous treatments
- Examination directed by symptoms and performed with consent
- Targeted tests such as ultrasound rather than repeated broad investigations
- Consideration of bladder, bowel, musculoskeletal and pain-system contributors
Conservative options
- Appropriate pain relief and hormonal treatment when relevant
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Support for sleep, stress and the wider impact of persistent pain
- A coordinated plan across relevant disciplines
Procedures and surgery
- Laparoscopy in selected cases when the result is likely to guide care
- Targeted treatment for identified conditions such as endometriosis
- Referral to pain medicine, physiotherapy or other specialists as needed
When to seek urgent care
- Sudden severe pain, fainting or dizziness
- Pain with fever or heavy bleeding
- Pain during pregnancy
- Vomiting, abdominal swelling or inability to pass stool or gas
Related care
Relevant procedure guides
Questions
Common questions about chronic pelvic pain
Clinical references
Consultation
