Initial assessment: the history in women with pelvic floor problems

History-taking from women with pelvic floor problems becomes easier with practice. In the time it has taken you to read this chapter, the histories of several patients could have been ascertained. Efficiency during the focused history will assume increasing importance as time constraints tighten. Combined use of written and verbal assessments provides maximum information in a concise fashion. This technique allows the treating physician to educate the patient while being sensitive to her individual concerns, such as her specific preferences for treatment and her social/lifestyle considerations. Efficient medical and/or surgical recommendations can be given within this context. These recommendations can reflect the preferred treatment given the milieu of the entire pelvic floor anatomy and function after physical examination and any appropriate testing.