How Should Intensity and Duration of Pain Inform Standard of Care for Pain Management in Non-Labor and Delivery OB/GYN Procedures?

Pain experienced during gynecologic exams and procedures is dismissed, not recognized, and undertreated by some clinicians. This article considers how duration and intensity of pain experienced can be used to direct care. This article also discusses possible consequences of undertreating pain and suggests pain management standards that can be used by clinicians to provide individualized, trauma-informed care and promote shared decision-making.