chronic pelvic pain CPP

Did you know?
Estimates suggest that 1 in 7 women in the United States is affected by Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP).

Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)

Researched by:

  • Karen Pendergrass ID
    Karen Pendergrass

    User avatarKaren Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.

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July 7, 2025

Chronic Pelvic Pain (PP) is persistent pain in the pelvic region lasting six months or longer, often multifactorial, impacting physical and emotional well-being, and associated with various medical conditions.

research-feed Research feed

Researched by:

  • Karen Pendergrass ID
    Karen Pendergrass

    User avatarKaren Pendergrass is a microbiome researcher specializing in microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs). She systematically analyzes scientific literature to identify microbial patterns, develop hypotheses, and validate interventions. As the founder of the Microbiome Signatures Database, she bridges microbiome research with clinical practice. In 2012, based on her own investigative research, she became the first documented case of FMT for Celiac Disease—four years before the first published case study.

    Read More

Last Updated: 2025-07-07

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Overview



Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) presents as persistent, non-cyclical pelvic pain lasting over six months, significantly impairing physical and emotional well-being [1]. It commonly links to conditions like endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and major depressive disorder. Symptoms of CPP vary, including sharp, dull, heavy, or burning sensations. The pain can be continuous or sporadic, with varying intensity levels. Unlike a single disease symptom, CPP is a complex, multifactorial syndrome. The microbiome plays a critical role in influencing immune responses and inflammation pathways. Alterations in gut and urogenital microbial communities may heighten inflammation and disrupt immune regulation, intensifying pain. CPP’s complexity categorizes it as both a symptom, and a unique condition. Diagnosis and treatment pose challenges due to its intricate nature, necessitating a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

What conditions are associated with chronic pelvic pain?
Conditions Associated with Chronic Pelvic Pain

Some of the most common conditions associated with CPP include:

ConditionDescription
EndometriosisA condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus (endometrium) is found outside the uterus, causing pain, especially during menstruation.
Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder SyndromeA chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, characterized by urinary frequency and urgency.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)A disorder affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)An infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, leading to pelvic pain.
Pelvic AdhesionsBands of scar tissue that form between pelvic organs and tissues, causing pain by binding organs that are normally mobile.
FibromyalgiaA condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues, which can include pelvic pain.
Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome in MenA chronic condition in men involving pain or discomfort in the pelvic region and genital area, often associated with urinary symptoms.

The link between CPP and various conditions underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint underlying causes. Treatment strategies must address the physical and psychological impacts of the condition. These include pain management, physical therapy, medication, and sometimes surgery.

Research Feed

The role of the vaginal microbiome in distinguishing female chronic pelvic pain caused by endometriosis/adenomyosis
May 9, 2021
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Endometriosis
Endometriosis

Did you know?
Gut microbiota predict endometriosis better than vaginal microbiota.

Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)
Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)

Did you know?
Estimates suggest that 1 in 7 women in the United States is affected by Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP).

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Endometriosis

Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.

References

  1. The role of the vaginal microbiome in distinguishing female chronic pelvic pain caused by endometriosis/adenomyosis.. Chao X, Liu Y, Fan Q, Shi H, Wang S, Lang J.. (Ann Transl Med. 2021)
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