Management of pelvic pain

Abstract

There are numerous etiologies of pelvic pain in women. These include pain of gynecologic, urologie, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal and vascular origins. The etiologies range from infections, pregnancy, neoplasms, torsion, structures, scarring, inflammation, fibroids, endometriosis, kidney stones, irritable bowel syndrome, prolapse, painful vessels, or menstrual cramps. Pelvic pain is divided into acute, chronic, or recurrent pain. While there can be significant overlap, the initial approach in establishing the etiology and management differs among these groups. A careful history and physical exam followed up with appropriate laboratory and diagnostic studies continually narrow the list of potential diagnoses. Quickly ruling out critical or life-threating conditions is particularly important in women presenting with acute pelvic pain.