Online Education for Chronic Pelvic Pain

This trial aims to understand how people with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) perceive different treatment options and whether an online program can change these perceptions. The program, called My Pelvic Plan, includes self-guided activities such as cognitive and behavioral strategies, acupressure, and basic pelvic floor exercises. It is designed for individuals who have experienced moderate to severe pelvic pain for at least six months and have pain at least 14 days a month. Participants must be new patients at the University of Michigan's Chronic Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis Referral Clinic and have internet access. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could improve future treatment options for CPP.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on an educational program rather than medication changes.

Research shows that the My Pelvic Plan website helps people manage chronic pelvic pain (CPP) through self-guided lessons. These lessons include techniques such as changing thought and behavior patterns, acupressure, exercise, and simple pelvic floor exercises.

Studies have indicated that digital programs for pelvic health, like My Pelvic Plan, are generally easy to use. Most participants reported few or no side effects and noticed improvements in pain, anxiety, and depression over time. The program emphasizes self-management, allowing users to decide how to use it.

"My Pelvic Plan" is unique because it offers a web-based, self-guided program specifically designed for managing chronic pelvic pain. Unlike traditional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or surgical interventions, this online platform provides easy access to educational resources and personalized management strategies from the comfort of home. Researchers are excited about its potential to empower patients with knowledge and tools to manage their condition independently, which could lead to improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life without the side effects often associated with conventional treatments.

Research has shown that online programs can help people manage chronic pelvic pain. One study found that many women want to learn more about their condition, including diagnosis and treatment options. Another study examined a digital program for women's pelvic health and found it reduced pelvic pain, anxiety, and depression after 4 and 12 weeks. These results suggest that using a web-based program like My Pelvic Plan, which participants in this trial will use, could aid in managing chronic pelvic pain.¹²⁶⁷⁸