Women's perspectives on pelvic pain: insights into the emotional and diagnostic journey in primary care

BACKGROUND: Pelvic pain is a common presentation in general practice and can significantly affect women's quality of life. Ensuring that women feel heard and their concerns acted upon is integral to accurate diagnosis and early management in primary care. AIM: To explore patient perspectives on the emotional and diagnostic journey of pelvic pain. METHOD: A survey was distributed to 550 female patients aged >18 at a GP practice in West Bridgford, Nottingham. It explored the physical and emotional impacts of pelvic pain and interactions with healthcare professionals using multiple-choice questions, 10-point Likert scales, and open-ended responses. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data thematically. RESULTS: Between July and September 2025, 81 responses were received and 45 (55.6%) reported pelvic pain (mean age 41.9 years, range 18-90). Of these, 22 (48.9%) had a diagnosis explaining their symptoms. Pain descriptors frequently reflected physical and emotional trauma ('stabbing', 'agonising', 'crippling'). Average impact scores were high: 7.5 out of 10 for quality of life; 7.9 out of 10 for emotional well-being. Disruptions were reported in physical functioning (20 mentions), work and education (18), and social restrictions (13), alongside relationships, fertility, and mental health. Thirty-eight sought GP advice; 7 did not, citing normalisation of pain and fear of dismissal. Experiences in GP consultations were mixed: some felt validated and supported (15 mentions), others described dismissal or patronisation (20), confusion (8), and frustration (7). CONCLUSION: Pelvic pain has profound physical, psychological, and social impacts. Patient accounts highlight the need for timely recognition, empathetic listening, and clear communication in primary care.