Chronic pelvic pain can be defined as intermittent or constant pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis of at least 6 months’ duration, not occurring exclusively with menstruation or intercourse and not associated with pregnancy. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Chronic pelvic pain presents in primary care as frequently as migraine or low back pain. Living with any chronic pain carries a heavy economic and social price. Aiming for accurate diagnosis and effective management from the first presentation may help to reduce the disruption of the woman’s life and may avoid an endless succession of referrals, investigations and operations. This guideline aims to provide an evidence-based framework for the initial assessment of women with chronic pelvic pain. It is intended for the general gynaecologist but may be of use to the general practitioner in deciding when to refer and to whom.
This guideline can be downloaded as a pdf by clicking the link below.
