title: Genitourinary emergencies in the nonpregnant woman.
abstract: Lower abdominal and pelvic pains are common symptoms in women who present to the emergency department (ED). Once pregnancy has been ruled out, attention should focus on other potential life or fertility threats. Ultrasound remains the most helpful initial diagnostic modality. Time-sensitive and serious conditions, such as large ovarian masses or abnormal vaginal bleeding, need gynecologic consultation. Because many patients do not have access to primary care, ED physicians should be familiar with the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. However, most nonpregnant women with pelvic complaints can safely be managed in the outpatient setting after ED evaluation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA. gillianmd@gmail.com
authors.forename: Gillian
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Schmitz
authors.forename: Carrie
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Tibbles
mesh_terms: D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005260:Female; D052776:Female Urogenital Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology