PELVIC ADHESIONS

WHAT ARE PELVIC ADHESIONS?

They are scar tissue formed from an inflammatory process that distorts the normal pelvic anatomy limiting its natural mobility. The inflammatory processes include endometriosis, chronic infection, bowel disease, or previous surgery. The adhesions may cause organs to stick together.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms include bowel obstruction, urinary bladder dysfunction, pain during a bowel movement, pain during walking or sitting/ lying in some positions, and sometimes infertility.

HOW ARE THEY DIAGNOSED?

A pelvic exam will help to determine your pelvic organs’ mobility because adhesions or scar tissue limit the natural mobility of the organs. Occasionally, a transvaginal ultrasound may see displacement of the pelvic organs due to adhesions.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

Laparoscopic surgery to remove the adhesions may be recommended, however, surgery itself can cause reformation of scar tissue. A discussion with your physician is recommended to evaluate the benefit of surgery.