“They Said It Was Just Cramps…”: The Truth About Pelvic Pain

💥 Pelvic Pain Awareness Month Is Here — and So Is the Truth

Every May, Pelvic Pain Awareness Month shines a spotlight on one of the most overlooked, misunderstood, and often dismissed health issues affecting millions of people, chronic pelvic pain. If you've ever been told "you're exaggerating," or that your debilitating cramps are "just part of being a woman," you're not alone.

And you’re not imagining things.

At KUSHIE, we believe your pain deserves to be heard, your body deserves respect, and your relief should never be up for debate. This month, we’re standing up for every person whose pain was ignored, misdiagnosed, or brushed off.

🧠 What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is any discomfort or pain felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis. It might show up as cramping, burning, aching, pressure, or stabbing sensations. It can be constant or intermittent, mild or debilitating.

For many, pelvic pain is more than physical. It’s a psychological and emotional burden, deeply tied to one’s identity, energy, and ability to participate in daily life.

❌ This Is What Pelvic Pain Isn’t:

• It isn't "just your period."

• It isn't "normal."

• It isn't "in your head."

• It isn't something you should have to "push through."

And yet, that’s the narrative too many people, especially Black, Brown, disabled, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ folks, are given.

📊 The Stats Tell the Story

• 1 in 7 women experience chronic pelvic pain [1]

• The average diagnosis delay for endometriosis is 7–10 years [2]

• Black women are less likely to be believed about their pain [3]

• Over 80% of people with pelvic pain report disruption in work, relationships, or quality of life [4]

These numbers aren’t just statistics - they’re a wake-up call.

🔎 Common Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is often caused by:

• Endometriosis

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Fibroids

• Adenomyosis

• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

• Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome)

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Scar tissue from surgery or trauma

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Chronic yeast or bacterial infections

Many of these conditions overlap, making diagnosis complex, but not impossible. You deserve thorough, compassionate care.

⚠️ Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

If you experience these symptoms, your pain may be more than "just cramps":

• Painful sex (dyspareunia)

• Sharp or stabbing abdominal pain

• Pain during urination or bowel movements

• Cramping between periods

• Excessive menstrual bleeding

• Back or hip pain with your cycle

• Bloating, fatigue, or nausea

• Anxiety or depression related to pain

If it’s impacting your quality of life, it matters. And you’re not being dramatic.

🌈 Managing Pelvic Pain While You Wait for Answers

Getting a proper diagnosis can take time. In the meantime, here are ways to support your body and soothe symptoms naturally:

1. Apply Targeted Heat + Vibration

Our KUSHIE Menstrual Relief Belt uses wearable heat and vibration to target cramps, bloating, and back pain. It’s compact, rechargeable, and discreet enough to wear under your clothes.

✨ "This belt changed the way I handle my flare-ups. I actually feel human again." — Alice H.

2. Incorporate Magnesium

Magnesium helps regulate muscle contractions and nerve function. Try our Lavender or Spearmint Magnesium Spray to ease pelvic tension and promote deeper sleep.

3. Use Plant-Based Hormone Support

Packed with essential oils like clary sage and lavender to support hormonal regulation and reduce PMS symptoms.

4. Create a Ritual of Rest

Rest is not laziness, it's resistance. Snuggle up in our Cozy Strawberry Robe, throw on your Soft Life Luxe Loungewear, and give yourself permission to slow down.

5. Track Your Symptoms

Document your cycles, pain patterns, food triggers, and flare-ups. KUSHIE’s upcoming Pelvic Pain Tracker (coming soon!) will help you advocate for yourself with real data.

🤍 Your Pain Is Real. You Deserve More.

Pelvic pain can feel isolating — but we promise, you are not alone. At KUSHIE, we’re creating a safe space where people with chronic pain, PCOS, endometriosis, and menstrual disorders are seen and supported.

You were never meant to suffer in silence. You deserve solutions. You deserve community. You deserve comfort. You deserve KUSHIE.

🚀 Take Action This May

• Share this article with a friend or family member

• Talk to your doctor and ask for pelvic health testing

• Advocate for inclusive menstrual education in your school or community

• Try KUSHIE’s curated Pelvic Pain Relief Collection

• Join the movement: #KUSHIEKrew | www.kushie.org

Pelvic Pain Awareness Month is about more than awareness — it’s about action.

Let’s flow forward, together.

🔗 Sources

1. ACOG. Chronic Pelvic Pain. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/chronic-pelvic-pain

2. Endometriosis Foundation of America. https://www.endofound.org

3. Journal of Women's Health. "Racial Disparities in Pain Management" https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jwh.2019.7767

4. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nih.gov

Written by: Team KUSHIE
Follow us on Instagram: @shekushie
Shop Relief Tools: www.kushie.org