Chronic
pelvic pain (
CPP) is a highly prevalent clinical condition and is recognized as a public health problem. Although the number of qualitative studies related to the topic is increasing, it is essential that this knowledge be presented in a synthesized manner, grounded in the context of the care provided to patients with
CPP, in order to increase the clinical and research applicability of the findings. Little attention is given to
CPP in undergraduate courses and in meetings for the continuing education of health professionals, the approach to
CPP typically being based on the biomedical model. We believe that qualitative research can provide insights into
CPP and form the basis for a biopsychosocial approach to the condition, which can in turn lead to better results, including resolution of the
pain and greater patient/health professional satisfaction. Therefore, we conducted a metasynthesis of seven qualitative studies of
CPP, the principal themes of which were as follows: (a) coping with
CPP versus secondary gain; (b) the great importance of determining the cause of the
pain; (c) expectations regarding the doctor-patient relationship; and (d) gender issues. We hope that the present study can aid in restoring the humanistic aspects of
CPP treatment.