Frequently Asked Questions

Does your multidisciplinary program work well for treating chronic pelvic pain?

A internal quality review (October 2003), revealed among all - comers patients with chronic pelvic pain, the average time for >50% pain relief was 208 days. Seventy percent of patients were able to reach this level.

Are the doctors available after hours if I have an emergency?

Yes, either our in house physicians or another physician is on call 24 / 7. Call (646) 290 -9560 leave a message on the after hours line. The covering physician will be paged immediately.

The doctor suggested I see a psychologist who specializes in pain management? Does he or she think I am crazy?

No, most pelvic pain specialists who practice evidence based medicine, understand the need for multidisciplinary care. They also understand that it is a normal response to have depression and anxiety when you have chronic pain.

I have a complex problem, should I get a second opinion?

We encourage you to get a second (and possibly even a third opinion). Remember, that it is very often the case that physicians will disagree on the best treatment for complex problems. These differences may be based on experience, education, and understanding of current literature. When 2 physicians disagree it is still possible they are both correct. Having a second opinion may expand your understanding of your disease and inform you about additional treatment options.

I see a doctor who specializes in either herbal medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, or another form of complimentary and alternative medicine? Should I tell my doctor about this?

Yes, we take the whole picture into account and enjoys working with other practitioners. Remember, there is evidence in the scientific literature that some remedies may actually be harmful and others may have negative interactions with Western medications. It is best if we knows about everything you are taking.

How are antidepressants used in the treatment of pain?

The tricyclic antidepressants can provide relief for some neuropathic pain, particularly pain that the patient describes as burning, tingling, numb, painful to a light touch or like pins and needles. Amitriptyline (Elavil), desipramine (Norpramin), and nortriptyline (Pamelor) are the most commonly used. Start with 25mg per day. Typically, these medications are increased by 25mg every 3 days until the patient has pain relief or encounters unacceptable side effects. The maximum dose is 150mg per day.The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g. Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft.) do not appear to be effective for neuropathic pain. However, if patients are depressed, relieving depression may also help to relieve their pain.The tricyclic antidepressants may also be helpful for neuropathic pain that is lancinating, shooting, or radiating, and can be tried if anticonvulsants prove ineffective.

Do the providers at your office participate in research?

Yes, as physicians in an academic center, we do research that will ultimately lead to more effective therapies for patients with chronic pelvic pain. You may be asked to participate in such a study. You have no obligation to do so. Click here if you would like to learn more about our current research .

Do your doctors operate with other doctors?

We will be performing your procedure or surgery with the assistance of a resident physician. If you are having an in- office procedure such as the Thermachoice, Essure, or hysteroscopy, then your doctor will be the only doctor in the room. Additionally, we work in a multidisciplinary fashion in the operating room for complex surgeries such as advance endometriosis. We may be working with a colo-rectal surgeon, general, surgeon, or urologist.

I have fibroids and my gynecologist told me I need a hysterectomy - are there other options?

Of course there are other options. In my experience, most women who are told they require a hysterectomy for fibroids would actually benefit from medical therapy or a safer and less invasive surgical option that preserves their uterus.

I have heavy bleeding and nothing seem to work - what can I do?

There are always options for heavy uterine bleeding. These do not have to include hysterectomy. Our surgeons are national experts in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding and can work with you to find the safest and best medical or surgical option.

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