Chronic pelvic pain

Chronic pelvic pain is a common and important gynecologic problem. The causes are diverse but can usually be categorized by the astute clinician. Gynecologic causes can often, although not always, be pinpointed for specific management protocols. Highlights of helpful areas are described in terms of history, physical examination, and laboratory and endoscopic diagnosis. Therapy may be medical, surgical, psychologic, or supportive. If specific, treatment is likely to be effective in some patients whereby a cause cannot be found, yet the patient may be helped. Some patients improve without treatment.