Functional anorectal and pelvic pain

Functional anorectal and pelvic pain syndromes represent a diverse group of disorders that affect the quality of life and about which many physicians possess little understanding. Nongynecologic causes include levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax, and coccygodnia, which can often be distinguished by careful history and physical examination. In women, chronic pelvic pain may arise from the uterus, cervix, ovaries, or from endometriosis and pelvic adhesions. This article reviews these diverse disorders and the approach to diagnosis and management.