Pelvic Disorders & Treatments in Portland, OR

Problems may include one or more of the following:

• Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, grows in abnormal places in the abdominal cavity. The most common sites for endometriosis to grow are the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, and the lining of the pelvis, especially behind the uterus. It is characterized by pain during periods and intercourse and is also a frequent cause of infertility.
  Pearl Women’s Center is a national referral center for high-level endometriosis care, offering advanced excision surgery to women with all levels of endometriosis.
• Pelvic Pain. Pelvic pain is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed conditions in gynecology. Pearl Women’s Center practitioners are experts in diagnosing the often elusive cause of this debilitating condition. We emphasize the importance of a thorough evaluation which includes a comprehensive history and physical exam, possible laboratory studies, and, oftentimes, imaging. We offer treatment of painful periods, pain with intercourse, vaginismus, painful bladder syndrome, myofascial pain syndrome with trigger points, pudendal neuralgia, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. Treatment for pelvic pain must be individualized to the patient’s unique circumstance and may include medication, therapeutic options, alternative therapies, or surgical intervention.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID is an infection of the upper reproductive organs. It occurs when bacteria move upward from the vagina and cervix to the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. Most cases stem from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), generally gonorrhea and chlamydia. When the STD goes untreated, the bacteria that caused it can lead to PID. PID can cause serious long-term problems like infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Although PID can threaten your health and cause infertility, it can be prevented and treated.
• Pelvic Floor Disorders Pelvic floor disorders occur when the pelvic muscles and connective tissues that hold the pelvic organs in place are weakened or injured. Because of the great stress pregnancy and childbirth exert on the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor disorders are very prevalent in women who have had multiple childbirths. The most common type is prolapse or a dropping down of the uterus or bladder. Vaginal prolapse occurs when the top of the vagina loses support and can drop through the vaginal opening. Prolapse can affect the bladder, the uterus and cervix, the vagina, and the rectum. Treatment can range from exercise to surgical intervention depending on the type and severity of the disorder. Symptoms can include urinary or fecal incontinence and feelings of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis. Pearl Women’s Center practitioners are experts in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical correction of pelvic prolapse. We offer the least invasive options available to achieve the highest chance of success.

What are the symptoms of a pelvic disorder?

Symptoms may include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during intercourse, pelvic pressure or heaviness, urinary or bowel problems, abnormal vaginal discharge, or difficulty becoming pregnant. Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition.

How are pelvic disorders diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include a detailed review of your symptoms and medical history, a pelvic exam, laboratory testing, and imaging studies such as an ultrasound. Because pelvic disorders can be difficult to diagnose, a comprehensive evaluation is often necessary.

What causes pelvic floor disorders?

Pelvic floor disorders can develop when the muscles and connective tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weakened or injured. Pregnancy, childbirth, aging, menopause, chronic straining, and previous pelvic surgery may increase the risk.

What treatment options are available for pelvic disorders?

Treatment depends on the specific condition, symptom severity, and your individual needs. Options may include medication, pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle changes, minimally invasive treatments, or surgery. Your provider will recommend a personalized treatment plan after a thorough evaluation.