Exploring Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain with Dr. Teale Muir

Summary:In this inaugural episode of Let’s Talk Chronic Pelvic Pain, Dr. Annie Apple introduces the mission behind the podcast: providing clear, evidence-based, and accessible education for people navigating chronic pelvic pain. Joined by Dr. Teale Muir, a fellow in Complex Benign Gynecology, we define chronic pelvic pain, discuss how common it is, and review the wide range of conditions that can contribute to it. From reproductive causes like endometriosis and fibroids to bladder, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, neurologic, and pelvic floor conditions.We also walk through what patients can expect during a pelvic pain evaluation, including the importance of a thorough history, pelvic floor assessment, and multidisciplinary care.This episode lays the foundation for future conversations and aims to empower listeners with knowledge, validation, and direction for next steps.Outline:What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain?Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis lasting 3–6 months or longerMay be constant or intermittentSignificant enough to impact daily lifeNot limited to period pain or pain with intercourseAffects up to 1 in 4 reproductive-age women worldwidePossible Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain, pelvic pain can involve multiple body systems:Reproductive: endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory diseaseUrinary: bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis, urethral conditionsMusculoskeletal: pelvic floor dysfunction, myofascial pain, SI joint dysfunction, tailbone painVulvovaginal: vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, vaginismusVascular: pelvic congestion syndromeNeurologic: pudendal neuralgia and other nerve-related painGastrointestinal: IBS, IBD, functional abdominal painWhat to Expect at a Pelvic Pain VisitA detailed medical and pain historyPelvic and abdominal examination (including pelvic floor assessment)Possible imaging or referralsA multidisciplinary, team-based approach to care