Urogynecologic conditions: pelvic organ prolapse

Chronic pelvic pain is a commonly encountered condition that often is multifactorial. Etiologies include gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal, and neurologic conditions. Laboratory tests, imaging, and surgical intervention are not always helpful in identifying the etiology of pelvic pain. For appropriate management of this complex disease process, a detailed history and physical examination, and a multidisciplinary approach are needed. Pelvic pain may be caused by endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis, interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome, or other factors. Evaluation may include keeping a pain diary; laboratory tests, such as a pregnancy test, urinalysis, or tests for sexually transmitted infections; ultrasonography of abnormalities detected on physical examination; and laparoscopy. Specific first-line treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives for endometriosis; progestins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs, aromatase inhibitors, or hysterectomy for adenomyosis; and education, food avoidance, and behavioral modifications for interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. Surgical options include nerve transection procedures, laparoscopic uterosacral nerve ablation, and presacral neurectomy, although data on effectiveness are limited.