29/07/2025
Chronic Pain as a Red Flag in Female Reproductive Health
Chronic pain is not a normal part of a healthy reproductive systemâespecially in women on their fertility journey. While temporary discomfort can accompany hormonal fluctuations, persistent or cyclical pain lasting more than three to six months often signals an underlying pathology. Research shows that chronic pelvic pain is strongly associated with conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and fibroidsâall of which are known contributors to infertility.
Endometriosis alone affects approximately 1 in 10 women and is present in up to 40% of women experiencing infertility. Chronic pain can also be a sign of autoimmune dysfunction, central sensitization, or unresolved inflammationâall of which may compromise fertility by disrupting hormonal balance, ovulation, implantation, or pelvic anatomy. Unfortunately, women are often socialized to normalize their pain or have it dismissed by healthcare providers, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing chronic pain as abnormal and worthy of investigation is essential not just for quality of life, but for safeguarding fertility and improving the chances of conception.