An IPPS Pelvic Pain Specialist is an individual with extensive experience in the field of pelvic pain, recognized by peers for their knowledge and achievements, distinct from public recognition. Objective achievements include national/international invited lectures, academic appointments, peer-reviewed publications, and contributions to medical education. Specialists must demonstrate collaboration within IPPS and a commitment to compassionate patient care.

Requirements for IPPS Pelvic Pain Specialist Designation

• Membership: Active IPPS membership
• Meeting Attendance: Attend IPPS Annual Scientific Meeting and Pelvic Pain Clinical Foundations course
• Completed Application 
  • Letters of Support: Two letters evaluating accomplishments, reputation, clinical competence, and ethical values. One letter must be from an IPPS member, and another from a community colleague, academic, or institutional leader
  • Curriculum Vitae: An up-to-date CV
  • A 500-word statement detailing qualifications and contributions to the field.
  • License: Current license in their designated field.
  • Continuing Medical Education: 50 hours of CME/CE credits in pelvic pain-related topics over the last 5 years.
  • Acknowledgment of having reviewed the IPPS Ethics, Professionalism and Equality Policy
  • Application Fee: $300 non-refundable fee (to make this payment, please call the IPPS Executive Office at 612-474-4140)
• Test: Pass the IPPS Pelvic Pain Designation Test with a score ≥ 85%

Duration of Designation

The IPPS Pelvic Pain Specialist designation is valid for 5 years, with the possibility of renewal by meeting requirements. Renewal fee is $200.

Who Can Apply?

Physicians and non-physician healthcare professionals with at least 5 years of clinical, research, or educational experience in pelvic pain. Students, fellows, or trainees are ineligible.

Application Process

Step 1: Submit an application*. Please note: you will need to have the following materials ready in order to submit your application (See requirements for more detail):

• Two letters of support
• Up-to date CV (Curriculum Vitae)
• Prepared statement
• Documentation of 50 CME/CEU/CE credits

*Send completed application to the IPPS Executive Office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Step 2: IPPS will initially review to verify that the application is complete.

Step 3: A link to take the test will be sent to you for completion.

Step 4: Once both the application and test have been verified and completed, both will be sent to the Membership Committee and the Executive Board for final review.

Step 5: A recommendation will be made to the Board of Directors, that must make the final determination, approving the applicant by a majority vote.

Benefits for IPPS Pelvic Pain Specialists

Applicants approved for this designation receive:

• Certificate of designation (mentioning years of designation).
• IPPS pelvic pain specialist pin.
• Recognition on IPPS platforms (website, find a healthcare professional, social media, spotlight).
• Proposal submission for IPPS Annual Scientific Meeting presentations (subject to committee approval).
• Recognition logo for use on personal marketing materials.

This is a benefit of IPPS membership. Not a member? Join today!