Join Dr Genesta Nicholson, Clinical Psychologist, for this CPD session exploring the relationship between neurodiversity and pelvic pain.

Neurodivergent people may experience differences in sensory processing, interoception (awareness of internal bodily sensations), proprioception, executive functioning and information processing. These differences can influence how pelvic pain is experienced, communicated and managed, as well as how people engage with healthcare professionals.

This session will explore how these differences may shape the pelvic pain experience and consider practical ways to provide more individualised, patient-centred care. Topics include trauma-informed practice, flexible goal setting, awareness of gender dysphoria, and recognising and reflecting on our own assumptions and biases as healthcare providers.

The session will also consider the emotional and cognitive demands of working with this population, including the importance of professional reflection, debriefing and self-care.

By the end of this session, participants will be better equipped to:

• Recognise biological, sensory, social and executive functioning differences that may influence the pelvic pain experience.

• Understand how neurodivergence may affect communication, assessment and engagement with healthcare.

• Identify opportunities to adapt clinical approaches through individualised, patient-centred and trauma-informed care.

• Reflect on their current practice and identify strategies to improve care for neurodivergent people experiencing pelvic pain