Pelvic Adhesive Disease (PAD) occurs when bands of scar tissue, known as adhesions, form between pelvic organs such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and intestines. These adhesions develop as a response to inflammation or trauma, often caused by surgery, infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or conditions such as endometriosis. In some cases, adhesions can be thin and filmy, while in more severe cases, they may be thick and dense, binding organs together and restricting their normal movement.
Women with Pelvic Adhesive Disease often experience chronic pelvic pain, especially if the adhesions pull on nerves or restrict organ function. Other symptoms may include painful periods, pain during intercourse, and digestive issues like bloating or constipation, particularly if adhesions involve the intestines. In many cases, PAD can contribute to infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or interfering with normal ovulation and implantation. The severity of symptoms varies—some women may have significant adhesions with little pain, while others experience severe discomfort even with minor scarring.
Diagnosing Pelvic Adhesive Disease can be challenging because adhesions do not typically appear on standard imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the abdomen, is often required for a definitive diagnosis. Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms and may include pain management, physical therapy, or laparoscopic surgery to remove adhesions. However, because surgery itself can trigger new adhesions, careful post-surgical management—such as physical therapy or anti-inflammatory treatments—is essential to reduce recurrence and improve long-term outcomes.
Pelvic adhesive disease (PAD) is a complex condition characterized by the formation of scar tissue (adhesions) in the pelvic area. These adhesions can bind together organs such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, and rectum, leading to various complications. At Clear Passage Physical Therapy, we specialize in non-surgical treatments for PAD and related […]
