Prevalence of depression and anxiety in women with chronic pelvic Pain: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to present the prevalence of depression and anxiety in women with Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) and their associated factors. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using the PubMed, Embase, and SciELO platforms, focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. Results: Eight studies were evaluated and demonstrated a significant prevalence of anxiety and depression in women with CPP, ranging from 22.8% to 79.0% and 14.0% to 56.9%, respectively. The HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) was the most used tool for screening anxiety and depression (37.5%), the PHQ (Patient Health Questionnaire) was used by 25.0%, one study used the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), and another relied on self-reporting of these disorders. In the meta-analysis, patients with CPP were found to be twice as likely to have anxiety disorders but not depression. The studies varied in their healthcare context, and only two specifically focused on evaluating mental disorders in women with CPP. Conclusion: An increased prevalence of anxiety was observed in women with CPP, while the prevalence of depression was elevated but not statistically significant. Significant associations were found with physical and sexual abuse, early emotional trauma, endometriosis, and surgical trauma.