PELVIC PAIN: CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN: GETTING HELP

While pelvic pain is difficult to diagnose, there are doctors who understand and know how to treat it. Ideally, the doctor should have expertise in pain and gynecology, but such individuals can be difficult to find. Be aware that many doctors and other health-care practitioners call themselves pain specialists, but may not be as well trained or experienced in treating chronic pain conditions.

Here are some places and people that can help manage pelvic pain:

· Comprehensive Pain Centers. Such centers provide multi-modal, interdisciplinary treatment, but may not have pelvic programs or specialists. Be sure to check first.

· Pain Medicine Physicians. Pain medicine has become a medical specialty in recent years. Pain medicine physicians specialize in treating many different pain conditions. Depending on background and interest, many treat pelvic pain; however, inquire about their experience and interest in treating pelvic pain and whether they incorporate a variety of therapeutic (multi-modality) approaches.

· Pelvic Specialists/Obstetricians/Gynecologists/Urologists/Physical therapists/Colorectal specialists/Sex and Pain Counselors: These health care providers have special skills, training and education in women's health care, but they may not be well versed in chronic pain. Be sure to ask about their experience with treating chronic pelvic pain.