Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) Connect Program

We understand that your pain is real. Living with pelvic pain can be stressful, confusing and exhausting.

That’s why we have invited you to take part in a 5-week program to help you better understand and manage your symptoms, while you wait for your appointment with the Gynaecology doctors at the Women's. 

You will have face-to-face appointments, to get advice and support from:

  • specialist pain doctors
  • pelvic floor physiotherapists
  • nurses, psychologists and dieticians who specialise in treating pain.

We also run a monthly Q and A session, where you can ask our gynaecologist (and other members of the team) any questions about pelvic pain or related issues. 

In your first meeting, our nurse coordinator will discuss the program in more detail with you. This is the document they will discuss with you at that session: Connect Program - introduction. 

Benefits of taking part in the CPP program

Education and care for people who experience pelvic pain helps with improving quality of life.

The benefits to you of participating in this program may include: 

  • a better understanding of pain and what is causing the pelvic pain you experience
  • trusted information about endometriosis and your treatment options
  • what you can do to reduce pain and the impact it has on your life
  • how to manage the stress of having pelvic pain
  • how to get back to physical activity when you have pain
  • how dietary changes can help pelvic pain 
  • if you go on to have surgery, the skills and techniques you learn from this program may improve your recovery and long-term health. 
What do I need to do before my 1st appointment?

1. Sign up to Health Hub by scanning the code below: 

2. Complete two questionnaires about your pain. Once you have signed up to Health Hub (see above), the CPP Connect team will send you links to these two questionnaires. Please complete both questionnaires before your 1st appointment.

Where and when

Where

Your appointments will be held at:

Women's Health Clinics
Level 1
The Royal Women's Hospital (20 Flemington Road, Parkville). 

The online Q and A session will be held via Webex.

When

Monday mornings between 9am-12pm.

Please note: sessions will not run for the full three hours instead they will be held within this three hour window. 

Frequently Asked Questions
What if I need to change an appointment?

Please contact us, as soon as possible, by calling (03) 8345 2756.

We know life is unpredictable, but we don't like being stood up! Please give as much notice as possible so others can use the limited appointment times we have.

If you fail to attend or cancel on the day twice, we won't book any further appointments until we hear from you (but you will stay on the waiting list to see the Gynaecologist).

Can I do Telehealth?

We recommend coming in for medical and physiotherapy appointments, face to face.

Other appointments can usually be done via Telehealth, preferably with video.

How do I join for Telehealth?

For Telehealth, we will send you a link on the day, via email or SMS.

How do I log into the online Q and A session?

The link to join your online Q and A session can be found in your Health Hub account, in the Messages section.

These sessions will be held via Webex. Before your sessions, please check your device to ensure you are able to join the sessions via video. 

For more information, see Join a Webex meeting

Can I choose when my appointments are?

Most of the appointments are on Monday mornings. 

When you book, our admin assistant will try to arrange times that work for you. 

How many appointments will I have?

We recommend you see each of our team at least once. Each clinician will discuss with you whether a follow up appointment is indicated. 

If I'm unable to complete the CPP program, will I still be on the waiting list to see the Gynaecology doctor?

Yes. It is your choice whether or not to participate in this program. For people who choose not to be involved, there will be no impact on your position on the waiting list. 

Videos to watch before your appointments
Understanding pelvic pain
Medication for pelvic pain
Nutrition for pelvic pain
Physiotherapy for pelvic pain
Psychology for pelvic pain

Links to more resources

Resources 

We have compiled a list of resources which may assist you during this time. Please visit: Resources - CPP Connect Program.

Need help?

For questions about your appointments, contact the CPP Connect program on (03) 8345 2756.

For general questions about the CPP program, contact the CPP Connect Nurse by sending a message using your Health Hub access.

Related information