Pain Education Makes a Difference
Pain education helps manage pain and improve quality of life
CHRONIC PAIN CONDITIONS IN VETERANS
Anyone can get chronic pelvic pain, no matter their age, race, education, social or financial background. However, studies show that chronic pelvic pain is more common in Veteran women. Research shows that 1 in 4 women Veterans seek care for chronic pelvic pain compared to 1 out of 10 of non-Veterans. There are situations and conditions that can increase the chances of having chronic pelvic pain, like military sexual trauma, mental illness such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), smoking, and substance abuse.
BASIC FACTS ABOUT CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN IN VETERANS
Women Veterans are more likely to have chronic pelvic pain conditions compared to non-Veterans.
10%
1 out of 10
non-Veteran women have chronic pelvic pain
30%
3 out of 10 Veteran women have chronic pelvic pain
597,000 women Veterans treated by VA Healthcare in 2018
-
7 out of 10 had chronic pain
-
more than 94,000 women Veterans were treated for chronic pelvic pain
Veterans who experienced military sexual trauma (MST), combat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are 2-3 times more likely to report having chronic pelvic pain, compared to Veterans who do not have these traumatic experiences.
Compared to non-Veterans, women Veterans are more likely to have a hysterectomy for chronic pelvic pain.
DHHS, May 2019
Although chronic pelvic pain is common in Veterans, treatments are available. The VA has many clinical teams with special knowledge and resources to take care of Veterans living with chronic pelvic pain. Visit the 'RESOURCES' page for more information on finding a VA site near you. Check out the 'PPEP VIDEOS' page to start on your healing journey.