Transition from pediatric and adolescent gynecology to complex benign gynecology - who, what, and when?

aDepartment of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University bDepartment of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA Correspondence to Darington Richardson, MD, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Suite 700, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of recent literature addressing diagnoses and conditions that intersect pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) and complex benign gynecology (CBG) to inform which patients should make the transition from PAG to CBG care, as well as when and how that transition should occur. Recent findings Recent literature lacks data on formalized transition processes for pediatric gynecology patients who require ongoing management of benign conditions, including, but not limited to, disorders of sexual development, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain. CBG specialists are well positioned to assume care for many of these individuals. Evidence suggests that delays in diagnosing conditions like endometriosis and failure to refer to appropriate subspecialists are linked to disease progression and worse long-term outcomes, underscoring the need for timely referral. Summary Transition from PAG to CBG care is a critical juncture for patients with chronic and surgically complex conditions. Structured referrals, clear communication, and multidisciplinary collaboration are key to maintaining continuity of care, preserving fertility, and optimizing outcomes. Given the lack of standardized transition frameworks in gynecology, further research is needed to develop evidence-based protocols and reduce care fragmentation. Plain Language SummaryThis review summarizes recent research on when and how patients should move from pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) to complex benign gynecology (CBG) care for chronic and surgically complex conditions. The literature shows a lack of formal transition processes for patients with disorders of sexual development, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain who need ongoing management. CBG specialists are well suited to assume care, but delayed diagnosis and referral, especially for endometriosis, are linked to disease progression and worse outcomes. The authors highlight the need for structured referrals, clear communication, multidisciplinary care, and evidence-based transition protocols to preserve fertility and reduce care fragmentation. Text is machine generated and may contain inaccuracies. FAQ