Can we be certain that an abnormality that is found is the cause of my symptom?

Many symptoms, such as pelvic pain, are common. Clinical examination and investigation will frequently demonstrate an abnormality. The abnormality indicates a diagnosis which in turn suggests one or more treatment options. It all seems so straightforward that it may be tempting to think that we could programme a computer to manage the investigation and treatment of patients. Medicine, however, remains as much an art as a science. During gynaecological investigation, there is a very good chance that at least one of the following will be detected but that does not necessarily mean that it is causing your symptoms.

style=" align="left">Table 4.1 Some common findings that may be detected during examination or investigation:

Disorder	Incidence	Question Number
Endometriosis	Some authorities suggest most women have some endometriosis.	23.18
Fibroids	More than 50% of women will develop fibroids.	23.14
Irritable bowel syndrome	15% of population currently; most people at some time of life.	23.36
Pelvic adhesions	Common after pelvic infection or with endometriosis. Almost 100% following surgery in the pelvis.	23.25
Physiological ovarian cyst	100 %.	23.8
Polycystic ovaries	20%.	7.6
Polycystic ovary syndrome	7%.	7.6
Premenstrual syndrome	95% some symptoms; 30% moderate; 5% debilitating symptoms	25.2
Prolapse, utero-vaginal	Most women have at least some degree of laxity after childbirth.	30.1
Retroverted uterus	20% of women have a womb that tilts backwards.	23.27

Please click on the required question.