Gynecology

Our practice offers a full range of gynecologic services including well-woman care, comprehensive patient education, management of hormonal and menstrual problems, management of menopause, hormone pellet therapy, assistance with sexual problems, contraception, and sterilization. We offer conservative treatments and minimally invasive surgery when necessary. Cookeville Gynecology & Urogynecology provides excellent medical care to support women through the different stages of their lives.

Chronic pelvic pain

Chronic Pelvic pain is a general condition or symptom that is characterized as pain in your lower abdomen (below the belly button and between the hips) that lasts 6 months or longer. This disorder can have many causes and may actually be a symptom of another underlying medical condition. The most common sources of chronic pelvic pain are:

• Endometriosis — Tissue that is supposed to be found only inside the uterus grows outside the uterus. Every month, this tissue responds to the monthly menstrual cycle by thickening and breaking down each month, but because it is outside the uterus it cannot leave the body through the vagina (like what normally happens during menstruation). Instead, it remains in the abdomen, which may develop into painful cysts or scar tissue.

• Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease — This can develop when a long-term infection of the pelvic organs (usually sexually transmitted) goes untreated.

• Fibroids — These smooth muscle tumors in the uterus are noncancerous, but may cause pain and pressure if they become too large.

• Crohn’s Disease or Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — Symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea can cause pelvic pain and pressure.

• Painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis)

• Undiagnosed cysts in the ovaries

 Though it can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of pelvic pain in certain cases, the disorder can be effectively managed with the right treatment.

 Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is abnormal bleeding from the vagina due to fluctuating hormonal cycles. This condition is generally more prevalent among teenagers and women approaching menopause, though it can potentially afflict a woman at any time during her reproductive years.

Signs that you may be suffering from dysfunctional bleeding include:

• Bleeding or spotting between periods

• Irregular periods

• Menstrual cycles are shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days

• Unusually heavy bleeding (such as having to change tampons or sanitary napkins once an hour for several hours in a row)

• Bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days

Fortunately, this condition can be easily treated with birth control pills, hormone therapy, or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.