‘Movember’ is a good time to reflect and continue to raise awareness of common men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide.
Since 2003, the funding raised through Movember has surpassed £598 million to support these causes —an incredible achievement. Testicular and prostate cancer are the most common cancers in men in the UK, whilst men account for 69% of all suicides in the UK.
These devastating men’s health causes justifiably take centre stage given their significant impact on so many.
One lesser-known issue, which is often more associated with Women’s Health issues, is Pelvic Pain. CPPS is a condition that I see in my role as a Physiotherapist, often with Men who are unsure of what is causing their symptoms. This was previously known as chronic non-bacterial prostatitis, a condition associated with long-term pelvic pain.
Pelvic pain in women impacts about 1 in 6, with estimates in men to be between 2-16% of the global population. The condition most commonly affects men aged 36-50, and it has a range of symptoms. CPPS typically presents in the absence of any other identifiable cause, such as an infection, with symptoms that can come and go over time.
Discomfort or pain can be felt in the genitals, including testicles, perineum, and lower abdomen. Often, associated symptoms such as dysuria (painful urination), urine frequency, and/or urgency changes, and sexual dysfunction. Typically, symptoms have been present for three or more of the last 6 months, with some patients experiencing symptoms for several years. The condition can understandably have a significant impact on a person’s physical and mental wellbeing, given the variety of symptoms and disturbances that CPPS can cause.
There can be several reasons that men might develop persistent pelvic pain, including:
A lot of men worry it means something serious — and sometimes it can, which is why getting checked out by your GP or healthcare professional is a smart move. Firstly, to rule out an infection or other cause, but in many cases, chronic pelvic pain isn’t dangerous — just frustrating. It’s often linked to something called pelvic floor dysfunction, where the muscles in that area stay tight or don’t coordinate properly. Think of it like a knot in your back, but in a much more sensitive place with varying symptoms.
The good news is pelvic pain is treatable, and steps can be taken to address the underlying cause. Physiotherapy can make a huge difference, especially when provided by a pelvic health specialist. Combine that with stress management, stretching, and sometimes a few lifestyle tweaks, and you can start feeling like yourself again.
Click here to learn more about how Teladoc Health UK’s Virtual Physiotherapy services can support you with treatment for many conditions.
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