Chronic headaches and sexual pain
Female pelvic/genital pain is more common in women with chronic Headache, according to a study presented by Canadian neurologists.
The study was carried out by researchers and clinicians at the Wasser Pain Management Centre, Mount Sinai Hospital and the Centre for Headache at Womens College Hospital in Toronto, Canada. During the study period, every adult English speaking female patient at the Centre for Headache at WCH was asked if they would consent to complete a specifically devised questionnaire. Of the 72 completed questionnaires, 32 (44%) of patients reported that they had pelvic region or genital pain brought on by sexual activity. Thirteen (18%) admitted to having pelvic pain that prevents them from engaging in sexual activity. 46% of these women had not had treatment, 39% were currently being treated, and 15% said they had received treatment in the past. All but one said that she would be interested in receiving treatment if available. The researchers concluded that it is important to ask women with chronic headache about sexual pain and, if present, be able to offer a management option.
Art credit: JulieMauskop.com
The treatment would depend on the specific cause (usually diagnosed by a gynecologist) if it can be found. Many women with chronic pain (about 40%, according to several studies), including chronic migraines have a history of being abused in childhood, not only sexually, but also physically or emotionally. This abuse might have resulted in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cognitive behavioral therapy could be very beneficial for both the sexual dysfunction and headaches. There are different types of cognitive behavioral therapy, but often it is the therapist, rather than the type of therapy that makes the biggest difference. So, finding a very good therapist is crucial. Word of mouth or a referral by a doctor is the way to find one.
History of abuse does not mean that the chronic migraines, headaches, or other chronic pains are purely psychological. The pain is real and it needs to be treated as any other physical illness, along with the psychological approaches. In case of chronic migraines, the treatment might include the use of magnesium and other supplements, triptans for abortive therapy, preventive drugs (anti-epileptic, anti-depressant or anti-hypertensive drugs) or Botox injections.