physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.
At our prestigious Private Harley Street Clinic, we are dedicated to providing expert care and tailored treatment solutions to help patients regain control of their lives.
What is Chronic Pelvic Pain?
Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is defined as persistent pain in the pelvic region lasting six months or longer. It can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal dysfunction, nerve irritation, infections, endometriosis, and conditions like vulvodynia. The pain may be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull, and can significantly interfere with daily activities, intimate relationships, and mental health.
Vulvodynia: A Closer Look
Vulvodynia is a particularly distressing form of CPP, that affects the vulva, causing burning, stinging, or raw sensations without an identifiable cause. This condition can be generalized (affecting the entire vulva) or localized (affecting a specific area, such as the vestibule).
Triggers for vulvodynia may include touch, pressure, sitting for prolonged periods, or intercourse, making everyday activities difficult.
Common Symptoms of Vulvodynia:
- Burning or stinging sensations in the vulvar region
- Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Rawness, irritation, or throbbing discomfort
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Symptoms persisting for months or even years
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of vulvodynia remains unclear, several factors may contribute to its development, including:
- Nerve impingements or irritation: Overactive nerve fibre’s in the vulvar region may amplify pain signals, leading to heightened sensitivity and discomfort.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in Oestrogen levels may impact vaginal and vulvar tissue health.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction: Tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles can contribute to pain.
- Neurological impingements: Compression or irritation of nerves in the pelvic region can lead to chronic pain and hypersensitivity.
- Paniculosis: Inflammation of the subcutaneous fat tissue can contribute to pain and tenderness in the vulvar and pelvic regions.
- Microscopic oedema: Swelling at a cellular level due to chronic inflammation may exacerbate pain and discomfort.
- Inflammatory responses: Some individuals may have an abnormal immune response that causes chronic inflammation, worsening symptoms over time.
- Anxiety and heightened ‘stress’ levels; Some individuals may carry a higher level of anxiety than others and this in turn causes ‘inner-angst’ with the Vagus forcing the neurology of the body into “Flight or Fight” mode; ie a Somatic Reflex.
- Genetic predisposition: A family history of heightened sensitivity to life stresses can drive chronic pain conditions and therefore may increase susceptibility.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Our Harley Street Clinic
At our Private Harley Street Clinic, we adopt a patient-centered approach to diagnosing and treating chronic pelvic pain, including vulvodynia.
Our leading Clinician and his team of experienced specialists conduct thorough assessments, including medical history evaluations, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests to identify potential underlying causes.
Treatment Options
Managing chronic pelvic pain requires a multidisciplinary approach. Depending on the individual’s needs, treatment options may include:
- Medications: Topical anaesthetics, nerve pain medications, or hormonal therapies.
- Pelvic floor physical therapy: Targeted exercises to relax and strengthen pelvic muscles.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Cognitive Hypnotherapy: Addressing the psychological impact of chronic pain.
- Anti-inflammatory approaches: Treatments aimed at reducing microscopic oedema and managing Paniculosis.
- Lifestyle modifications: Dietary changes, stress management, and avoiding irritants.
- Nerve blocks and injections: Last resort to provide targeted pain relief – to allow the rehab and treatments to take place and have the desired effect – before the ‘nerve blocks’ wear off.
Seeking Help for Pelvic Pain
If you are struggling with Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) or suspect you may have vulvodynia, seeking expert care is essential. At our Harley Street Clinic, we offer compassionate, results based treatments; designed to help you find relief and restore your quality of life.
Don’t let pelvic pain define your life—schedule a consultation with our specialists today and take the first step toward healing.