Anatomy of the Abdomen and Pelvis

Chronic pelvic pain is a common problem that has been poorly understood for decades. It is defined as pain that occurs below the umbilicus to mid-thigh and lasts for at least 6 months. The pelvis encompasses the reproductive, urogenital, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems. In addition to pain arising from dysfunction of these organs, the etiology of the pain can also be neuropathic or myofascial. Earlier theories attributed this pain to visceral organs or somatic structures in the pelvis, in combination with a psychological component. The unclear etiology presents a unique challenge for treatment of the pain. Recent clinical investigations have shed more light on the importance of understanding pelvic floor anatomy and physiological function in order to diagnose and appropriately treat pelvic floor dysfunction. This chapter reviews the pelvic anatomy and its clinical correlations, with special attention to the female.