Central Florida Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles of the Villages
Related Articles
By Parveen Vahora, M.D.
Pelvic pain affects millions of women worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life and daily activities. Two of the most common causes of chronic gynecologic pelvic pain are endometriosis and uterine fibroids. Understanding these conditions and their treatment options is crucial for women seeking relief from persistent pelvic discomfort.
Endometriosis:
When Tissue Grows Where It Shouldn’t
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic cavity. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes during menstrual cycles, causing inflammation, scarring, and severe pain.
Women with endometriosis often experience debilitating menstrual cramps, pain during intercourse, heavy bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain that can persist throughout the month. The condition affects approximately 10% of reproductive-aged women and can also lead to fertility challenges.
Uterine Fibroids:
Common but Troublesome Growths
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. These muscular tumors vary dramatically in size, from microscopic to larger than a grapefruit. While many women have fibroids without symptoms, others experience significant pelvic pain, pressure, heavy menstrual bleeding, and frequent urination.
The location and size of fibroids determine symptom severity. Submucosal fibroids, which grow into the uterine cavity, often cause the heaviest bleeding, while larger fibroids can create a sensation of pelvic fullness and pressure.
Conservative Treatment Approaches
For both conditions, treatment typically begins with conservative management. Hormonal therapies, including birth control pills, progestin-releasing IUDs, and GnRH agonists, can help regulate hormones and reduce symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications provide pain relief and can decrease heavy bleeding.
Lifestyle modifications also play a crucial role. Regular exercise, stress management techniques, dietary changes, and heat therapy can help manage chronic pain. Some women find relief through acupuncture, yoga, or pelvic floor physical therapy.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, surgical intervention may be recommended. The choice of surgical procedure depends on the specific condition, symptom severity, and the patient’s desire for future fertility.
For endometriosis, laparoscopic surgery is the gold standard. During this minimally invasive procedure, surgeons remove endometrial implants, adhesions, and scar tissue through small incisions. This approach typically results in faster recovery times and less post-operative pain compared to open surgery.
Fibroid treatment options include myomectomy, which removes individual fibroids while preserving the uterus, and uterine artery embolization, a procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink. For women who have completed childbearing and have severe symptoms, hysterectomy may be considered.
Making Informed Decisions
The journey to finding effective treatment for gynecologic pelvic pain requires patience and often involves trying multiple approaches. Women experiencing persistent pelvic pain should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop individualized treatment plans.
Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent symptom progression and improve long-term outcomes. With proper medical care and treatment, most women can find significant relief from pelvic pain and return to their normal activities.
Expert Care for Your Pelvic Health
If you’re experiencing persistent pelvic pain and suspect endometriosis or fibroids may be the cause, don’t wait to seek expert medical evaluation. Dr. Parveen Vahora specializes in diagnosing and treating gynecologic conditions that cause pelvic pain, offering both conservative and surgical treatment options tailored to your individual needs.
Take the first step toward improving your pelvic health and quality of life by calling Dr. Vahora’s office at 727-376-1536 or visiting ParveenVahoraMD.com.
GYN VIP
Introducing our exclusive GYN VIP, Rewards Program, designed to enhance your journey to beauty and wellness! As a valued member, you’ll unlock many benefits and indulgent perks tailored just for you. Earn treatments with every visit, and watch your rewards accumulate towards exciting offerings. Enjoy VIP access to the latest advancements in skincare, rejuvenating therapies, and luxurious spa experiences. Pamper yourself with discounted services, complimentary upgrades, and priority bookings. Plus, gain insider access to exclusive memberships stay on top of the latest trends and techniques. Join GYN VIP today and embark on a path to extraordinary self-care, where the more you invest, the more you’ll be rewarded. Let us be your trusted partner on your journey to radiance and well-being.
Download our mobile app:
https://www.myprivia.com/mobile-app
DR. PARVEEN S. VAHORA, MD, FACOG: Our practice’s mission is to inspire women to live their best lives by providing compassionate and personalized care. We do everything we can to make you feel as comfortable as possible. For all your women’s health needs, we are here by your side through all phases of life.
Our gynecologist’s office is small, intimate, and welcoming. Women under our care are treated with the utmost respect, which means we offer personalized care, educating them on conditions, treatment options, and preventive measures. Our focus is on sexual health. We are proud to offer the MonaLisa Touch® for patients going through menopause as well as post-menopausal women, breast cancer survivors, and those suffering from pain during intercourse or intense dryness. We also offer genetic testing for breast, ovarian, and colon cancer. From birth control to robotic surgery, we have got you covered.
Trinity Office:
9332 State Road 54, Suite 403, Trinity, FL 34655
727.376.1536
