May is Pelvic Pain Awareness Month

Pelvic pain is when you experience discomfort in the lower part of your body, below your belly button. This pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as endometriosis, vulvodynia, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Pelvic pain can affect anyone, but it's more common among women. It can make it hard to do daily activities, work, and enjoy life.

Pelvic Pain Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevalence of pelvic pain and its impact on people's lives. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider about any pelvic pain you experience. They can help diagnose the cause and provide treatment options that can relieve your pain. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause.

There are also steps you can take to manage pelvic pain at home. These may include practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, using heat or ice therapy, and doing gentle exercises like yoga or stretching. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or treatment regimen.

We can all play a role in promoting pelvic pain awareness and advocating for comprehensive care. By sharing resources, supporting organizations that raise awareness and provide support, and speaking up about the importance of accessible and inclusive healthcare, we can work towards improving the lives of those who experience pelvic pain.

Join us in recognizing Pelvic Pain Awareness Month and learning more about this important issue. Let's work together to ensure that everyone has access to the care and support they need to manage pelvic pain and live their best lives.

To learn more, find ways to take part, or donate to improve access and care for those living with chronic pelvic pain, visit the International Pelvic Pain Society.