Lactose intolerance and long-standing pelvic pain after pregnancy: A case control study

Abstract

Background. Long-standing pelvic pain during pregnancy and after delivery (PPP) is common. Its causes are not fully understood. A scientifically, undocumented, clinical observation is PPP patients often reporting unspecific abdominal pain and adverse reactions to milk. The main objective in this pilot study was to investigate if lactose intolerance, celiac disease or allergic propensity are risk factors for developing pelvic pain after delivery. Methods. A matched, case control study, where consecutive patients consulting a registered physiotherapist specialised in treating women with postpartum pelvic pain were compared to matched controls. Results. Lactose intolerance was found in 10 of 15 patients, and in 3 of 15 matched, healthy controls (p=0.05). No difference was seen between groups in the prevalence of celiac disease or allergic propensity. Conclusion. This study suggests that lactose intolerance might be a possible risk factor for pelvic pain after delivery. © 2007 Taylor & Francis.