Definition

Chronic pelvic pain is defined as pain within the pelvic region that lasts longer than 6 months.  Pelvic pain may be present in both female as well as male patients.

Description

The pain may be superficial or deep-seated, and may fluctuate in severity.  Some patients report that their pain is always present; others experience pain-free intervals.  Pain may be described as sharp, dull, burning, tearing, crushing, lancinating, pressure, pins-and-needles, or any of a host of additional descriptors.  Everyone's pain represents a unique and subjective experience, and doesn't necessarily fit into simple categories.