Core Questions

1. Outline the anatomic contents of the female pelvis.
2. Describe an approach to the history in a patient with acute pelvic pain.
3. Describe an approach to the physical examination in the patient with acute pelvic pain.
4. List 10 differential diagnoses for the patient presenting with acute pelvic pain. (Box 30.1)
5. Outline an approach to ancillary testing for the patient presenting with acute pelvic pain.
6. What must be seen on bedside ultrasound to confirm a definitive intrauterine pregnancy (IUP)?

Wisecracks

1. What is the incidence of domestic violence in patients presenting with pelvic pain? 
2. What is the incidence of heterotopic pregnancy in the general population and in those that have conceived using reproductive technology?
3. Under what circumstances can a pelvic examination be omitted in a patient presenting to the ED with acute pelvic pain?
4. What is the classic triad of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?