Mental Health Care Providers: Resource Rather Than Last Resort in Patients With Chronic Pelvic Pain

Therapeutic effects of antidepressants and Kampo medicines on chronic pelvic pain in women

“…Therefore, it is of importance to listen carefully to patients' complaints and to describe a patient's medical condition as clearly as possible. Previous clinical studies have reported that chronic pain disorder may cause depression and markedly worsen the quality of life of the patient [9]. In addition, women with chronic pelvic pain could have a higher incidence of sexual abuse than women without the pain [10,11].…”

Integrated Care for Persons With Persistent Gynecologic Conditions

“…37 This process has the potential to reveal trauma history, including childhood sexual abuse or intimate partner violence. 17 There is a 31% to 64% prevalence rate of childhood sexual abuse in patients with chronic pelvic pain. 17 If these issues have not been previously addressed by a mental health provider, a patient may be triggered or have an exacerbation of psychological and physical symptoms.…”

“…17 There is a 31% to 64% prevalence rate of childhood sexual abuse in patients with chronic pelvic pain. 17 If these issues have not been previously addressed by a mental health provider, a patient may be triggered or have an exacerbation of psychological and physical symptoms. For many individuals, symptoms have gone untreated or undiagnosed without previous interaction with mental health providers.…”

“…In addition to treating traditional mental health issues, BHCs may be effective in addressing pain management issues, health promotion/disease prevention, as well as health behavior changes, including smoking cessation, weight management, substance misuse, stress reduction, and treatment adherence. 17 BHCs may support patients in preparing for examinations and interventions, including injections and surgery, as well as coping during recovery. They have the ability to follow along in a patient's care to ensure patients feel validated and involved in treatment decision-making.…”

“…Patients are introduced to the model of brief behavioral intervention during the first visit to understand the benefits and increase patient engagement. Being able to educate patients about the role of behavioral health in providing whole-person care can lead to de-stigmatization, increased participation with BHCs, and decreased barriers to connecting with care which leads to decreased health care costs and improved treatment outcomes 17 . Exploring contextual factors with patients can help them begin to develop insight into the ways in which biopsychosocial variables influence one another.…”