Pain
Pelvic pain is one of the most common issues women ask their gynaecologists for help with; we're also here to relieve menstrual pains, lower back or stomach discomfort, headaches and more.
Pain is a complex issue involving a range of factors, including physiology, hormones, lifestyle, posture, past injuries and personal pain threshold. We'll consider the whole picture, and begin with a thorough medical diagnosis. Treatment combining medical care with nutritional and lifestyle support is typically very effective, and many women use complementary therapies. This is 'integrated healthcare', rated as the ideal approach by BMJ (British Medical Journal).
You begin by meeting your medical consultant , to discuss your symptoms and for an examination.
Medical diagnostic tests may include:
- ultrasound scans (can detect endometriosis, fibroids, and monitor ovarian activity and breast tissue changes in response to hormones)
- blood and stool analysis
- infection and allergy checks
- MRI and x-rays
- surgical tests hysteroscopy and laparoscopy are occasionally used to visualise the pelvic organs
- gastroscopy and colonoscopy may be used for bowel investigation
Medical treatment will reflect your needs. Analgesics (pain relievers) or other medication may be helpful. Surgical treatment is only needed when there are conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis or adhesions. The latest surgical techniques are minimally invasive and we offer you support to help a speedy recovery.
Complementary therapies may help to clarify the causes of pain and help to reduce it. Osteopathy is often used, particularly when there is muscle or ligament tension in the back or pelvis, or spasms in the uterus, bowel and bladder. Acupuncture and homeopathy can improve bowel or ovary function, and many women use them to boost their energy. Your doctor will help you choose what might suit you.
Lifestyle factors frequently make a difference. The key areas are:
- nutrition - stomach, bowel and ovarian pain often responds to changes in eating habits; your hormone balance is affected by your nutrition; for some women weight may be an issue
- relaxation - reducing stress has many positive effects, on work-life balance, emotional wellbeing, eating, sleeping and exercise habit, as well as pain perception
- exercise - is important for general health and helps to reduce pain perception; you might want to try pilates or yoga
Emotions are central - your feelings about your pain and its impact on your life; plus underlying emotions that may contribute to your pain or your perception of pain (anger and anxiety are often linked to pelvic problems). Viveka's 'Emo' team includes a personal and family therapist, a hypnotherapist, a psychotherapist and a life coach. Our team has a reputation for helping women to identify where emotions and discomfort are linked, and to deal effectively with pain when it arises, using medical support where appropriate.
