CPP Among Somali Women in Norway: SCED

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is a condition associated with negative cognitive, behavioral, sexual and emotional consequences. Although multimodal physiotherapy is recommended for women with CPP, it is unclear whether evidence can be adopted to Somali women living in Norway. This study aims to evaluate a culturally adapted multimodal physiotherapy intervention consisting of pain education, physical activity, pelvic floor muscle training, and self-management strategies among Somali women with CPP. The study uses a single-case experimental design with a nonconcurrent randomized multiple baseline. The design allows each participant to serve as their own control while all participants receive the intervention. Repeated quantitative outcome measures will evaluate changes in pain-related outcomes, perceived change in condition, treatment satisfaction, quality of life, health literacy, and self-efficacy. Qualitative interviews will explore feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, and the participants' experiences of chronic pelvic pain, and understanding and management of their own health.

Inclusion Criteria: * Biological females, aged between 18 and 45 years * Chronic pelvic pain symptoms \>3 months * Moderate to severe pain intensity (≥4/10) * Somali background and currently residing in Norway * Able to understand simple Norwegian * Able to perform physical activity of low to moderate intensity * Able to travel to physiotherapy appointments for participation * Able and willing to give informed consent to participate. Exclusion Criteria: * Surgery during the past 12 months and any medical conditions that would interfere with the ability to participate * Severe pathology (malignancy) * Pregnancy, as well as childbirth within the last 12 months and breastfeeding * Severe psychiatric disorders * Exercising regularly including pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) more than once per week.