Clinical Updates in Women's Health Care

Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders

ABSTRACT: Disorders of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract can be a major determinant of quality of life, particularly for women. Many women turn to their obstetrician–gynecologists for primary and preventive care or with vague GI concerns that overlap with many gynecologic disorders. As such, knowledge of current screening recommendations is essential. Lower GI tract disorders can affect and be affected by pregnancy and fertility. Common GI tract disorders, including colorectal cancer, motility and functional disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease, are reviewed in this monograph. Because most obstetrician–gynecologists will encounter these entities in their practices, their context in women’s health will be addressed.