Chronic pelvic pain and a healthy sex life: How to achieve pleasure through the pain

If you suffer from chronic pelvic pain (CPP) you are not alone. In fact, millions around the world deal with this under-researched, frequently neglected, and complex condition. CPP includes a host of problems, from endometriosis, musculoskeletal diseases, and discomfort in the pelvic region. And no matter the reason, CPP is a massive disruption and can affect your ability to have a healthy sex life, a vital part of your life.

Before getting into the details of how to manage both pain and pleasure for your wellbeing, let’s start with an overarching definition of CPP. With CPP, you experience pain consistently and constantly below the belly button and above the legs. It can even get worse over time. Usually, it lasts for three months or longer.

Pelvic pain symptoms can include bloating, cramps, spotting between periods, lower back pain, muscle spasms, low libido, and can also lead to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and irritability. Current treatments include NSAIDS, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, opioids, physical therapy, interventional procedures, in addition to more holistic methods like acupunture, massage, reiki, herbal supplements.

Common causes of CPP

This can be caused by a number of things, from cysts to digestive problems. CPP as such may go un- or misdiagnosed. The following are a few of the more serious medical conditions that can cause CPP.

1. Endometriosis is the presence of estrogen-sensitive endometrial glands associated with an inflammatory response outside of the uterus in which tissue similar to the uterus lining grows in other parts of the body. It has no known cure, is painful and can feel more sever during periods. Symptoms include painful intercourse, painful periods, urinary issues, painful bowel movement and diarrhea.
2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome involves a slew of symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, gas,. Bloating and cramping. IBS is linked to celiac disease, crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis as well.
3. Vulvodynia is chronic pain and discomfort at the entrance of the vagina. With no identifiable cause, the condition cases pain, burning, stinging, painful intercourse when touched. It can lead to bladder or yeast infections.
4. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) and Vaginismus causes the pelvic floor to spasm as a protective response to any triggers, making penetration very painful. Sexual or physical trauma, or even childbirth, can cause PFD and is worsened with stress or increased activity.

Sexual health is for everyone

It is easy to dismiss your sexual health and activity due to pain and discomfort. But, a healthy sex life has been proven to support your entire body and mind and can help you feel better. The rush of endorphins from feeling pleasure can relieve pain, improve sleep, and decrease anxiety and stress.

We encourage people who suffer from chronic pelvic pain to self-advocate, re-assess ay shame associated with these conditions, and practice listening and responding to their bodies before all else, because sexual health is for everyone. Here are our tips for nurturing a healthy sex life with CPP.

1. Communicate with your partner(s)

Over 100 million adults are treated for chronic pain annually, one of the biggest hurdles people suffer from sexual conditions and anxiety is their reluctance to seek help or communicate their experiences due to embarrassment, frustration with the lack of medical response, and fear of judgment.

Being open and vulnerable can be uncomfortable at first, but clear communication as you explain what your chronic pain means to you can help you feel seen and also put your partner’s mind at ease because they are more informed.

Discuss how severe and frequent the pain is, where on your body you experience the pain, as well as an open communication protocol before, during, and after sex. And, on days when your body is feeling severe pain, feel comfortable about communicating that.

2. Be gentle with yourself

Listen to your body. Fight a natural inclination to push through the pain to focus on the activity.

You might want to take a less active role on days when you’re experiencing more pain than usual. If you’re feeling up for sexual activity, incorporate pillows, toys, and accessories help get you feel more comfortable while keeping the pleasure quotient high. Find positions that don’t exacerbate pain symptoms and take the pressure off your joints or areas of pain.

3. Redefine Sex

The focus should be on pleasure, however way that’s achieved, rather than just an orgasm.

Many people define sex as penetration, but sexual enjoyment can be derived from other activities. Dedicate time to exploring and experimenting with pleasure. Activities like outercourse, or dry humping can genuinely feel great and strengthen intimacy. Breath and sensual touch techniques and massage can shift the focus back to our bodies and increase sensation. Solo activities like exploring your body’s erogenous zones and self-massage are effective ways to feel pleasure and release pain without the need for a partner because after all, this is about you.

4. Take time to get relaxed

Chronic pain can cause neurological symptoms such as anxiety and depression, so it’s important to approach sexual activity in a relaxed state.

To start, a hot bath can soothe sore muscles and joints. Following that with a gentle massage by your partner is not only intimate but can help relax your body for the other activities you have planned. This also lets your partner feel where you’re hurting so they can be more mindful. Sure, taking the time to relax may require a bit more planning, but also helps both your mind and body get into the activity and feel prepared.

5. Cannabis can help

According to a new study called Use of Cannabis for Self-Management of Chronic Pelvic Pain, almost 25% of patients with CPP report regular cannabis use as an adjunct to their prescribed therapy. People with endometriosis who use cannabis for their pain management reported an 80% efficacy in pain reduction, and 56% reported decreasing their pain prescription medications by at least half.

Our Medical Advisor, Dr. June Chin shares that cannabinoids found in cannabis prevent the release of inflammatory signals and work on the body’s pain receptors. Cannabis acts similarly to NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, but without potentially wreaking havoc on your gastrointestinal system.

Here are some tips when selecting products.

1. To decrease pain and reduce inflammation, Dr. Chin recommends the following cannabinoids and terpenes: THC, THC, CBD, CBC, CBGA, CBG, pinene, beta-caryophyllene, geraniol, humbleness, limonene, myrcene, terpinoel, and valencene.
2. Depending on the consumption method you choose, cannabis can be fast-acting and/or sustained over a long period of time. Inhaling cannabis by smoking or through a vape provides faster relief, whereas edibles and tinctures process through your body’s digestive system and liver for a slower but longer release. Topicals, like Om’s Love Balm (Ca) and Oshihana’s salve (OR) and suppositories like Foria’s Explore, can be used to relieving pain, muscle cramps and spasms, and inflammation directly throughout the reproductive system, including the uterus. Lubricants can help combat vaginal dryness as well as aid in relaxing the pelvic floor muscles and increase arousal.

When dosing, remember that more is not always better as high doses can actually increase pain levels as your body becomes more aware of it. Moderate doses have been found to provide good relief. It is always best to start low, go slow, and document your process over the course of weeks, not just a single day.

Despite all of this planning and research, remember that your sexual health should be pleasant and fun. Enjoy it and approach it as a way to explore and express your love for yourself and a partner(s) as you grow and pursue pleasure.

 

 

HiVi is intended as an educational resource and makes no medical claims. The information provided is NOT intended to assist anyone in violating federal law and is not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease. Representations regarding the efficacy and safety of cannabis consumption have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not consume cannabis if you are taking medications until you’ve researched all potential interaction. Do not discontinue any medications you are currently taking in favor of cannabis without trusted, professional guidance by a physician or someone knowledgeable about cannabis.