Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Pelvic Pain

Abstract Chronic pelvic pain in women is defined as noncyclical and persistent pain lasting more than six months perceived to be related to the pelvis. There are many etiologies that can cause chronic pelvic pain, including gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, neurologic, and psychosocial. There is a strong association between psychological factors and chronic pelvic pain. It has been noted that almost half of women being treated for chronic pelvic pain report a history of sexual, physical, or emotional trauma. Women with chronic pelvic pain have been noted to have higher rates of psychological disorders in comparison to their peers. For men, the most common etiology for chronic pelvic pain is chronic prostatitis and there are also correlations with psychological disorders. There are many different treatment options for chronic pelvic pain: surgical, pharmacological, non-pharmacological (alternative therapies). Cognitive-behavioral therapy may be another option when treating chronic pelvic pain syndrome and should be considered.