The female body undergoes numerous unfamiliar changes throughout its life cycle. These changes are often dismissed, attributed to menstrual discomfort or even considered “normal.” But at South Texas Pelvic Health, bringing awareness to issues that seem too taboo to talk about is the norm. The practice addresses various pelvic floor issues, ranging from common urinary and bowel problems to complex chronic pain conditions with diverse diagnoses. Although these symptoms can stem from a variety of causes, the most common and misunderstood is endometriosis.
Dr. Kathryn DeBerry, owner and physical therapist at South Texas Pelvic Health, realized how few and far between practices like this were after having her first child. Upon moving to Corpus Christi, she decided to become that resource for local women and their conditions that were often overlooked.
“One in 10 women are affected by endometriosis,” shared Melissa Huber, an occupational therapist at South Texas Pelvic Health. “Endo is where tissue of the lining in the uterus grows outside of it. Depending on where in the body the endo is, symptoms can vary, which makes it even more challenging to diagnose.”
For example, a person with stage 4 endo could have minimal pain compared to a person with stage 1, who may be experiencing constant pain. “Chronic pain is really complex, but for the most part, we are able to see a lot of positive change with the physical adjustments,” DeBerry said.
Many patients struggle not only with pain, but also with the high costs of treatments. The Rise Above Endo Fund was born out of a desire to remove financial barriers for women with endometriosis seeking pelvic floor therapy. The fund was inspired by the clinic’s patient, Emma, who openly shared her story about her struggles with endo, and it became clear that too many women do not have the same opportunity for care. Emma spent years battling severe pain, nausea and fatigue from endometriosis, only to be told it was “normal.” After finally receiving a proper diagnosis and undergoing surgery, she found real relief through pelvic floor therapy, which gave her hope and restored mobility.
The fund operates through community donations and proceeds from specific services and events. These contributions directly support women with endometriosis who are experiencing financial hardship by assisting with pelvic floor therapy sessions, which can cover either partial or full treatment costs at South Texas Pelvic Health.
“We want to go above and beyond to get the full picture to understand why your body is responding this way to be able to address the root cause,” said DeBerry. “It is a journey that we want to support you through, so you don’t have to do it alone.”
