About this episode

This episode explores chronic pelvic pain, its complexities, and patient experiences with treatment and stigma.

In this episode of the Patient Innovations Podcast, Rashmi Kandwal and Mary MacCarthy explore one of the most complex and underrecognized conditions affecting millions of women: chronic pelvic pain. Defined as pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis lasting longer than six months, chronic pelvic pain can stem from a wide range of causes — from uterine dysfunction and neuropathic pain to hormonal and mood-related conditions. Because the condition is multifaceted, effective treatment almost always requires an integrated, multidisciplinary approach. The conversation begins with patient guest  Kaleigh Karlen , a high school science teacher from Denver whose personal journey highlights the day-to-day realities of navigating symptoms, stigma, delayed diagnosis, and fragmented care. Kaleigh shares what has helped her most — including  pelvic floor therapy ,  electrical therapy , and lifestyle changes talks about  Beating Endo , a book that helped her understand the link between  endometriosis, inflammation, and diet . Her story offers a candid look at how CPP affects mental health, work, relationships, and identity, and the hope that emerges when patients finally…

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