Chronic pelvic pain is a common problem presenting a major challenge to healthcare professionals. This is partly due to the lack of understanding of the aetiology and natural history of the disease. This condition is best managed using a multidisciplinary approach. In recent years, the emphasis in the clinical management has tended towards psychosocial or psychosexual involvement after organic disease has been excluded. (Sex Transm Inf 2000;76:419-425) Keywords: pelvic pain Introduction Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a serious problem aVecting the lives of many women during their child bearing years. It is a recognised long term morbidity of sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease. The diVerential diagnosis of the underlying aetiology often involves both psychological and organic factors. The management of CPP constitutes a major challenge to the clinician mainly because of our lack of understanding of its natural history, aetiology, and pathogenesis.The aim of this descriptive review is to identify the wide range of aetiological factors for CPP in order to illustrate the dilemma facing clinicians in investigating and managing this condition.

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