Chronic Primary Pelvic Pain Syndromes in Women: A Comprehensive Review

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is a multifactorial and complex condition. It often remains undiagnosed or inadequately treated. Despite its high prevalence, CPP continues to be a taboo subject, leading to delays in seeking medical care. Chronic primary pelvic pain syndromes (CPPPS) are pain conditions without an obvious underlying diagnosis, including painful bladder syndrome, vulvodynia, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax, myofascial syndrome, pudendal neuralgia, and coccyx pain syndrome. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to understand the most common forms of CPPPS in women, focusing on diagnostic criteria, pathophysiology, and treatment options. Due to the complexity of CPPPS and varied treatment responses, management requires a multidisciplinary approach. Although various treatment modalities exist, no single strategy is universally effective, emphasizing the need for individualized care. Future research should prioritize refining diagnostic criteria and investigating new therapeutic strategies.