Prevalence of chronic pelvic pain and primary dysmenorrhea in women of reproductive age in Ecuador

Abstract

Background Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and primary dysmenorrhoea are debilitating conditions that can impair the quality of life of affected women. These conditions are frequently neglected, delaying proper diagnosis and healthcare provision. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of CPP and primary dysmenorrhoea in Ecuador and identify potential variables associated with their occurrence. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey in an urban neighbourhood of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. A total of 2397 participants of 14–49 years of age were included. The data were collected through questionnaires administered by trained interviewers.The crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were calculated using a log-binomial regression model. The correlation between pain intensity catastrophising of symptoms were statistically analysed. Results The prevalence of CPP and primary dysmenorrhoea was 9.8% and 8.9%, respectively. Irritative urinary symptoms, primary dysmenorrhoea, and underlying mental disorders were associated with CPP, while smoking, irritable bowel syndrome, sleep disturbance, dyspareunia, and mental disorders were associated with primary dysmenorrhoea. Conclusions The prevalence of CPP and primary dysmenorrhoea in Ecuador was similar to that in other Latin American countries. Primary dysmenorrhoea is a risk factor of CPP, and less than a quarter of women are undergoing treatment for the condition. Our findings reinforce the importance of healthcare interventions in anticipating the diagnosis of these conditions in women of reproductive age.

Validation of the Brazilian version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule in women with chronic pelvic pain

“…This data points out that the item deserves attention, as some women avoid sexual activity because of pain, sexual dysfunction, or the absence of a partner. It corroborates what the literature suggests, namely that women with CPP have higher dyspareunia rates 32 , sexual dysfunction is more common, and they have worse rates in most domains of the FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) 33 , generating a negative impact on female sexual function 34 . The WHODAS 2.0 showed excellent reproducibility indices in the studied population.…”

Prevalence of chronic pelvic pain and associated factors among indigenous women of reproductive age in Ecuador

“…In our study, the prevalence of non-cyclical pelvic pain was similar to that observed in Latin American countries such as Brazil, where it's close to 10% (61, 62), and in urban communities of Ecuador, where it is 8.9% (50). It was positively associated with various other painful conditions, reinforcing the link between the condition and nociplastia (63), and perhaps re ecting the clinical expression of central sensitization that commonly occurs in this group of patients (64).…”

“…The observed prevalence of dyspareunia in this population was signi cantly lower than that previously reported in the urban population of Ecuador (50). The exact reason for this difference remains uncertain.…”

“…The prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea identi ed falls within the range reported worldwide, but interestingly, it is nearly double the rate we previously identi ed in the non-indigenous population living in an urban area in the capital of Ecuador (50). In that population, the observed rate of hormonal contraceptive use was considered low, at around 25%, while in this indigenous population, the usage rate is only 5.5%, ranging from 3% among those with primary dysmenorrhea to 6% among those without this condition.…”

Validação da versão brasileira do World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule em mulheres com dor pélvica crônica

“…A pontuação média da END no dia da avaliação foi de 6,03±3,02; n=86, e a média do último mês foi de 7,49±2,17; n=57 (Tabela 1). 32 , a disfunção sexual é mais comum e elas têm piores índices na maioria dos domínios do FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) 33 , gerando um impacto negativo na função sexual feminina 34 . O WHODAS 2.0 apresentou excelentes índices de reprodutibilidade na população estudada.…”