Chronic pelvic pain in Lausanne: understanding, relieving and reclaiming your body
What is chronic pelvic pain?
Chronic pelvic pain occurs in the lower abdomen, pelvis or perineal area. It has lasted for at least six months and is not directly related to menstruation. It may be constant, occur in fits and starts, or vary in intensity. In some cases, it occurs for no apparent reason, at rest or in motion.
This pain affects around one woman in four during her lifetime. It is still too often misunderstood, or even downplayed. Many women seek help several times before obtaining a clear diagnosis. This can lead to feelings of incomprehension and isolation. Yet this pain is very real and deserves specific attention.
In Lausanne, chronic pelvic pain can be effectively managed. In particular, thanks to perineal rehabilitation, which is part of a global and personalized approach. (source: NIH - Chronic Pelvic Pain)
Where does the pain come from? Possible causes
There is no single cause of chronic pelvic pain. It can be gynecological (endometriosis, fibroids), urological (painful bladder), digestive (irritable bowel syndrome) or musculoskeletal in origin. Often, several causes combine and reinforce each other.
A common but under-diagnosed factor is pelvic floor hypertonia. This means that the deep muscles of the pelvis are over-contracted, even at rest. This permanent tension becomes painful. It interferes with sexual intercourse, urination, bowel movements or certain positions.
Up to 85% of women with chronic pelvic pain have a muscular component. This is the finding of a recent study (source: PubMed). It is therefore essential to assess the perineum, its tone and any imbalances. This can be done during a perineal rehabilitation assessment.
What impact does this have on everyday life?
Chronic pelvic pain has a major impact on quality of life. It limits movement, sometimes prevents sitting for long periods or makes walking difficult. Some women avoid sport or long journeys for fear of the pain. This can lead to progressive isolation.
Intimate life is often disrupted. Fear of suffering during intercourse dampens desire. This can lead to frustration, withdrawal and even tension within the couple. Added to this is the fear of not being understood or believed.
Emotionally, chronic pain is exhausting. It alters sleep, generates anxiety, irritability and sometimes a feeling of discouragement. The body becomes a source of discomfort. But there are solutions to help you feel better. And perineal re-education is one of them.
(source: PubMed - Pelvic Pain & Quality of Life)
How does perineal rehabilitation work?
Perineal rehabilitation is a specific, personalized approach. It aims to relax the pelvic floor muscles when they are too contracted. These muscular tensions are common in chronic pelvic pain. They create a vicious circle: pain → contraction → more pain.
During sessions, the therapist uses gentle techniques such as internal massage, stretching, myofascial relaxation, biofeedback and breathing exercises. The aim is to help the patient identify her tensions and gradually release them.
This work is progressive, respectful and always adapted to the patient's tolerance threshold. Not only does it reduce pain, it also helps the patient regain better mobility, a more serene sexuality, and a calmer relationship with her body.
(source: Pelvic Floor PT Review)
What the studies say
The benefits of perineal rehabilitation are well documented. A review published in 2020 reported a significant improvement in pain in over 70% of cases. This includes pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), which is common in chronic pelvic pain.
This improvement is not limited to pain. Many patients also report an overall improvement in well-being: better quality sleep, reduced anxiety, resumption of physical or intimate activities.
These results are long-lasting, provided the treatment is regular. It's not a miracle treatment, but a solid support program. It helps to break the pain-tension-anxiety cycle that can sometimes last for years.
(source: PMID 31222691)
Being accompanied in Lausanne
In Lausanne, the Centre Philae offers specialized care for chronic pelvic pain. The team is trained in pelvic floor re-education and support for patients suffering from complex pain conditions.
Solen is appreciated for her gentle, caring approach. Attentive and present, she adjusts each session to your needs and progress. Complete, she remains available for patients who have already been treated and for recommendations (doctors, midwives, patients...).
Clara offers a warm, committed presence. Always on the lookout for ways to improve, she doesn't hesitate to network with other therapists and supports you every step of the way.
Amélie, dynamic and attentive, accompanies each patient with precision and commitment. Committed, she finds solutions and encourages you throughout your sessions.
An initial appointment enables us to carry out a complete assessment. An individualized treatment plan is then proposed. Sessions take place in a confidential, caring environment, always respecting each woman's body.
This approach can complement medical care (gynecologist, urologist, gastroenterologist, etc.). It helps you regain control over your pain, regain comfort and, above all, stop suffering alone.
