Meet the Experts

Dr. Rafael Perez

Medical Director of the Center for Women & Infants, Fibroid Center at South Miami Hospital

Videos

Female Pelvis: Anatomy

Dr. Rafael Perez, Medical Director of the Center for Women and Infants at South Miami Hospital, explains the female pelvis contains the bladder, the reproductive organs, and the gastrointestinal tract. He highlights the importance of the pelvic floor, because it facilitates the delivery of babies.

Learning about Uterine Fibroid

Dr. Rafael Perez, Medical Director of the Center for Women and Infants at South Miami Hospital, explains uterine fibroid is a benign growth on the muscle of the uterus He also says the fibroids are compacted masses that increase the cavity, and the cavity is what creates a lining that sheds every month, known as menstruation. "The problem with this is when you make a cavity larger, you create more bleeding."

Surgical Options for Uterine Fibroids

Dr. Rafael Perez, Medical Director of the Center for Women and Infants at South Miami Hospital, says the benefit of medications based on hormonal manipulations is questionable, because they are limited in how long women can use them. He points out surgery would probably be the next step, like a uterine artery embolization to treat some other conditions in the uterus with the embolization of the artery.

Signs of Pelvic Floor Disorder

Dr. Rafael Perez, Medical Director of the Center for Women and Infants at South Miami Hospital, explains pelvic floor disorder starts with a little bit of incontinence. "You cough, you run with the kids, you are doing exercise and a little bit of urine peeks out. That begins to tell you that the floor is not as strong as it used to be." He points out it is important to know how to do Kegel exercises by contracting the pelvic floor.

Pelvic Disorders and Sexual Dysfunction

Dr. Rafael Perez, Medical Director of the Center for Women and Infants at South Miami Hospital, says pelvic disorders affect sex life, because it is embarrassing having a leak out during intercourse. He explains one of the things that happens especially after menopause is that the lining of the vagina becomes a little thinner, and that could cause pain. "The combination of factors make intercourse a little less likely, and there's no reason why that should be that way."

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions expressed in the programs on this channel and website are intended to address specific questions asked or situations described in each particular program, are for educational purposes only, and are not designed to constitute advice or recommendations as to any disease, ailment, or physical condition. You should not act or rely upon any information contained in these programs without seeking the advice of your personal physician or a qualified medical provider. If you have any questions about the information or opinions expressed, please contact your doctor or other medical professional.

A service of

in partnership with

A service of South Florida PBS

in partnership with