Holistic Care

At Kardinia Health Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis Clinic, we emphasise a multidisciplinary, biopsychosocial approach as the most effective way to address an individual’s pain experience. This means using a range of healthcare professionals who not only assess the biological (physical) factors, including conditions like endometriosis, but also consider the psychological and social factors that influence a person’s symptoms.
1.
PSYCHOLOGICAL

Consider influences such as attitudes and beliefs, mental health conditions, coping strategies and past trauma*

2.
BIOLOGICAL

Assess physical contributors such as disease (eg endometriosis, adenomyosis), hormones and menstrual cycle, tissue injury, nervous system hypersensitivity, pelvic floor tension, sleep and nutrition

3.
SOCIAL

Explore factors such as cultural identity, family life, sexuality, peer support, work and/or school and how these relate to your symptoms

*As you can see in the diagram above, previous trauma can play a role in pain and it can be helpful if your care team are aware of this in order to provide you the best and most sensitive care. It is entirely up to you how much you wish to share and if you prefer not to disclose sensitive information that is also okay.

The issue

Persistent pelvic pain

We know that persistent pelvic pain often encompasses various types of pain and associated symptoms, including pain originating from pelvic organs (such as painful menstruation, endometriosis, painful bladder, or irritable bowel), musculoskeletal discomfort (including tense pelvic floor muscles and spasms), sensitised nerve pathways (resulting in pain spreading, sleep disturbances, and fatigue), and the effects of chronic inflammation (such as fatigue and bloating). These symptoms can go on to impact personal relationships, professional endeavours, academic pursuits, and emotional well-being.

A Multidisciplinary team for pelvic pain

While everyone will be unique in their symptoms and needs, the following primary care specialists may be helpful. If you are not attending our clinic/in the Greater Geelong region we recommend you find local providers who have experience in pelvic pain and endometriosis.

General practitioner

A GP is an integral part of your team as they can help you to navigate any medical management including referring for investigations, prescribing medications, providing contraceptive options (including IUD insertions) and sexual health management. They also refer to specialist services and can arrange care plans for subsidised allied health referrals

Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

A Pelvic Health Physiotherapist works with the muscles and nerves that make up the pelvic floor, the bladder, the bowel as well as the muscles that are around the pelvis such as the gluteal, abdominal muscles and hip flexors. Pelvic Health Physiotherapists understand the multiple influences on your pain and the often-associated issues that may come with your pelvic pain such as bladder issues, bowel issues or sexual function concerns. To find a physio with additional pelvic health qualifications see https://cfaphysios.com.au/.

Pain Educator

Pain Educators have advanced understanding in the science of pain and advanced skills in what to do about it. They can be helpful to develop your understanding about what is contributing to your pain and strategies to support you managing and treating your pain. They can help to develop pain flare plans and develop and achieve your goals. To find a pain educator near you see https://www.painrevolution.org/find-a-lpe.

dietitian

Dieticians specialise in the power of harnessing food and eating to support our wellbeing. They work with you to translate nutrition science into practical advice, coming up with a plan to support you to improve your symptoms and move toward your health goals.

Psychologist

A psychologist can help you to navigate and address any psychological symptoms you may be experiencing. They can help you to understand how stress and our thoughts can influence your pain as well as provide you with strategies to support your recovery. They may use specific techniques to address unhelpful thought patterns, trauma, stress management and developing skills to empower and support you. ‘We recommend finding a psychologist with some experience in chronic pain, or the issues specific to you – you can search psychologists via https://psychology.org.au/find-a-psychologist.

Sexologist
A sexologist can be a helpful member of your team if sexual pain or dysfunction is a concern for you. They can help you to navigate sex in the presence of pain, understand arousal and desire and help you find enjoyment in sex. You may see a sexologist individually or with a sexual partner. ‘To find a sexologist see https://societyaustraliansexologists.org.au/directory.
Chinese Medicine/ Acupuncture
Acupuncture is just one method under the umbrella of traditional Chinese Medicine, and has been utilised for thousands of years to promote body healing mechanisms. Acupuncture can help with pelvic pain by reducing inflammation in the pelvis, improving blood flow and making the brain feel safe. Acupuncture gives the brain and nervous system a signal – each time this signal is reapplied you can get longer relief in terms of pain and retrain your body. You can search for registered Acupuncturists through the AHPRA website https://www.chinesemedicineboard.gov.au.
Tertiary support

The following non GP specialists may also form part of your management team. Your GP can help guide and arrange referrals to access these specialists


  • Gynaecologists
  • Colorectal surgeons/gastroenterologists
  • Urologists
  • Sexual Health Physician
  • Pain physicians