LUHS opens clinic to treat debilitating effects of CPP in women

Loyola University Health System (LUHS) has opened a clinic to treat the debilitating effects of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women. The clinic is located at the Loyola Outpatient Center at 2160 S. First Ave., in Maywood.

"Chronic pelvic pain can be difficult to diagnose and treat," said Mary Jo Liszek, MD, assistant professor in the Departments of General Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, LUHS. "However, our clinic brings together the expertise of several disciplines to better manage these patients."

CPP is one of the most common medical problems in women. It is characterized by pain in the pelvic region that lasts for more than six months. Twenty-five percent of women with CPP may spend two to three days in bed each month, more than half cut back on regular activities and 90 percent experience pain with intercourse.

In 60 percent of CPP patients there is no known cause. However, symptoms can begin as a result of severe menstrual cramps, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, musculoskeletal issues, pain from the bowl or bladder, infection, scar tissue or irritable bowl syndrome. CPP often can be caused by more than one of these issues.

Women often see several physicians before they get symptom relief. However, Loyola's clinic offers all of the expertise needed to treat these patients. The staff is composed of female internists, gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists, physical therapists and psychologists.

"Chronic pelvic pain can take both a physical and emotional toll on women," said Sondra Summers, MD, associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, LUHS, and medical director for OB/GYN and Women's Health. "Nearly half of the women with CPP that we see feel depressed at times, so we focus on improving their symptoms to alleviate the emotional component of this problem."

Treatment for CPP includes an extensive medical history, physical and diagnostic tests. It also can include medication, physical therapy, psychological counseling and surgery.