Endometriosis and Female Pelvic Pain
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York.
Abstract:
Endometriosis is a nonmalignant gynecologic disorder that can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life with pelvic pain and possible lasting effects on one's fertility. Symptoms, when present, can be severe and affect many organ systems including the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. Other etiologies of pelvic pain must be ruled out and/or need to be addressed concurrently for optimal patient care. There are numerous medical and surgical treatment options available that have been shown to be beneficial for endometriosis-related pelvic pain. Recurrence is common when medications are discontinued and even after surgical therapy. Ultimately, the treatment approach will be dependent on the needs of the patient, taking into consideration the patient's desire for fertility, symptoms, past treatment, and patient preferences.
Related Concept Videos
Infertility in Females
Endometriosis, a condition characterized by abnormal growth of...
Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
External Female Genitals
Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
Pain
Analgesia and Pain Management


