Anorectal Disorders: Clinical Updates in Women’s Health Care Primary and Preventive Care Review

Anorectal disorders can have overlapping symptoms, which sometimes can make it difficult to establish a diagnosis. Obtaining a detailed history and performing a physical examination are vital to establish the correct diagnosis and to outline appropriate treatment for anorectal disorders. Obstetrician–gynecologists often are the primary care providers and may be the only medical professional a woman sees; therefore, they should be knowledgeable regarding anorectal pathology, recommended dietary and lifestyle changes, and appropriate referral guidelines. This monograph reviews benign and malignant anorectal conditions to aid obstetrician–gynecologists in diagnosis and management of anorectal disease and to provide guidance regarding a referral to a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon.