Pelvic pain can be very different from one patient to the next, but all pelvic pain is uncomfortable and distressing. Often this type of pain is difficult to diagnose, and many patients are left without answers. At Suffolk Pelvic Medicine, our all-woman staff specializes in identifying and treating pelvic disorders that others may overlook or misdiagnose.
We offer a wide range of treatments to our patients in Riverhead and Long Island, NY, that can help you overcome your pelvic pain and start your recovery. We are a Center of Excellence for Axonics® bladder stimulator therapy, and we also specialize in various other surgical and non-surgical methods of treating pelvic pain.
What Is Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain is any type of discomfort felt in the lower abdomen and pelvic region, varying in intensity and duration. This pain can be experienced differently for everyone, with pain that is sharp and stabbing, dull and throbbing, and much more. Because each patient’s experience is unique, practitioners need to consider a wide range of treatments and therapies to help.
Axonics Stimulator Therapy
Axonics therapy offers a way to address different types of pelvic pain and bladder control problems. This treatment utilizes a compact, implantable device that delivers gentle electrical pulses to the sacral nerves, which play a crucial role in bladder and bowel regulation.
By stimulating these nerves, the Axonics device aids in normalizing functions and reducing symptoms related to overactive bladder, fecal incontinence, and urinary retention. Being minimally invasive, this therapy provides patients with adjustable, ongoing relief, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
What Can Axonics Stimulator Therapy Treat?
Axonics therapy is effective for a range of pelvic pain treatment options and conditions. It is helpful for chronic pelvic pain that has not responded well to other treatments. This includes pain associated with interstitial cystitis, known as painful bladder syndrome, and certain types of pelvic floor dysfunction. Axonics therapy can also provide relief for patients suffering from overactive bladder, urinary and fecal incontinence, and non-obstructive urinary retention.
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Vaginal rejuvenation is a type of non-surgical treatment that treats various issues related to vaginal health. It can improve symptoms of pelvic pain and discomfort while rejuvenating tissues. By enhancing the overall function and appearance of the vaginal area, we can offer a better quality of life for our patients.
What Can Vaginal Rejuvenation Treat?
Vaginal rejuvenation can treat a variety of conditions affecting women’s health. It is particularly effective for reducing pelvic pain associated with vaginal laxity, dryness, and atrophy. It can also improve symptoms such as urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction, providing comprehensive relief from discomfort and enhancing sexual health.
Types of Vaginal Rejuvenation
We offer vaginal rejuvenation using Viora’s advanced technology, including the V-VR, V-FR, and V-ST handpieces. The V-VR handpiece addresses internal vaginal tightening and improves elasticity. The V-FR handpiece focuses on resurfacing the vaginal tissue to reduce wrinkles and enhance texture. The V-ST handpiece is used for external treatments, tightening the skin and improving overall appearance. These treatments use radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or reduces the size of the labia minora and/or labia majora. This procedure can provide significant vaginal pain relief for women experiencing discomfort due to elongated or irregular labial tissue, and it can also offer aesthetic benefits.
What Can Labiaplasty Treat?
Labiaplasty can treat various conditions contributing to pelvic pain in women. This includes irritation and discomfort caused by excess labial tissue, which can interfere with activities such as exercise, intercourse, and wearing tight clothing. Labiaplasty can also address issues related to hygiene, reducing the risk of infections and improving overall vaginal health.
Who Can Benefit From Labiaplasty?
Women who experience chronic discomfort or pain due to the size or shape of their labia are ideal candidates for labiaplasty. This procedure is beneficial for those whose labial tissue causes chafing, irritation, or discomfort during physical activities. It is suitable for patients who have room in their schedules for downtime after surgery, are in good health, and do not smoke.
Botox® Injections
Botox injections for pelvic pain involve injecting Botox directly into the bladder muscle, which helps to relax the muscle and reduce involuntary contractions. By doing so, Botox can alleviate the painful pelvic cramps associated with an overactive bladder, offering patients a non-invasive method to manage their symptoms.
What Can Botox Treat?
Botox offers pelvic and vaginal pain relief for patients dealing with discomfort due to bladder overactivity. It helps reduce the urgency and frequency of urination, which are common symptoms of an overactive bladder. By relaxing the bladder muscles, Botox injections can improve the overall quality of life for patients and allow them to experience less pain and more control over their urinary functions.
Pelvic Floor Prolapse
Pelvic floor prolapse occurs when pelvic organs descend into or outside of the vaginal canal due to a weakened pelvic floor. This condition can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Pelvic floor exercises and other treatments can strengthen these muscles and support the affected organs, helping alleviate some symptoms.
Types of Prolapse and Their Symptoms
Pelvic floor prolapse can present in various forms. Cystocele, or bladder prolapse, leads to urinary incontinence and a feeling of fullness in the bladder. Rectocele, or rectal prolapse, causes difficulty with bowel movements and a sensation of rectal pressure. Uterine prolapse, where the uterus drops into the vaginal canal, results in pelvic pain, lower back pain, and a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis.
Methods of Treatment for Prolapse
Treatments for pelvic floor prolapse include non-surgical options like physical therapy and pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles. Surgical interventions may be necessary in certain cases to restore the proper position of the pelvic organs. These pelvic pain treatments focus on alleviating discomfort and improving function.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises strengthen the pelvic muscles and the core, which support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These exercises help improve muscle tone, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall pelvic function. Regular practice of pelvic exercises can lead to benefits in overall pelvic health.
What Types of Pelvic Pain Can Exercises Treat?
Pelvic exercises can treat various types of pelvic pain, including discomfort from pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and post-surgical pain. Strengthening the pelvic muscles can alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like painful bladder syndrome and pelvic organ prolapse, providing a non-invasive way to manage chronic pain.
Types of Pelvic Floor Exercises for Pelvic Pain
Effective pelvic floor exercises for pelvic pain include Kegel exercises, which involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles. Biofeedback and physical pelvic therapy can also be beneficial, helping patients learn to control and strengthen their pelvic floor. Incorporating these exercises into a daily routine can lead to improved pelvic health and reduced pain.
Managing Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
Pelvic issues during pregnancy are a common issue that many women face, often caused by the added weight and pressure on the pelvic muscles. This discomfort, known as pelvic girdle pain, can range from mild to severe, affecting daily activities and overall comfort. Managing this pain involves a combination of exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and professional guidance.
Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today
Effective management of pelvic pain involves understanding the various treatments available and how they can improve quality of life. At Suffolk Pelvic Medicine, we offer comprehensive solutions for women in Riverhead and Long Island, NY. To learn more about how we can help, contact us at (631) 405-0898 or fill out our online form.