Dr. Jill Ingenito
Dr. Jill Ingenito
Dr Jill Ingenito – Endometriosis Specialist
Summary: Dr Jill Ingenito is an experienced endometriosis specialist based in Centennial, Colorado, dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr Jill Ingenito approaches endometriosis as a multifactorial disease, considering key theories such as retrograde menstruation, coelomic metaplasia, immune dysfunction, and genetic factors. This broad understanding guides her personalized treatment plans, which include excision surgery and tailored hormonal therapies like combined oral contraceptives, progestins, and GnRH modulators. Dr Jill Ingenito emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating pelvic floor therapy, dietary changes, and pain management to address persistent symptoms. For ongoing pain after surgery, she recommends NSAIDs, neuromodulators, and low-dose naltrexone to reduce inflammation and nerve-related discomfort. Her patient-focused philosophy prioritizes shared decision-making and holistic care to improve quality of life. With a commitment to staying current on emerging research, Dr Jill Ingenito combines expertise and compassion to support women through every stage of their endometriosis journey.
City: Centennial, Colorado, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: Endometriosis is a complex condition with multiple proposed theories of origin, and I approach its treatment with this multifaceted nature in mind. Here are the key theories I consider and how they influence my approach:
1. Retrograde Menstruation Theory: Endometrial-like tissue flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the peritoneal cavity during menstruation, where it implants and grows.
Influence on Treatment: This theory underscores the importance of hormonal suppression to reduce menstrual flow and mitigate disease progression. Treatments like hormonal contraceptives, progestins, and GnRH modulators can help control symptoms and prevent recurrence.
2. Coelomic Metaplasia Theory: The peritoneal lining transforms into endometrial-like tissue due to genetic or environmental factors.
Influence on Treatment: This theory supports the need for a holistic approach, including addressing potential environmental triggers and reducing inflammation through lifestyle modifications, diet, and anti-inflammatory therapies.
3. Stem Cell Theory: Stem cells from the bone marrow or endometrium migrate to ectopic locations and differentiate into endometrial-like tissue.
Influence on Treatment: This theory emphasizes the potential role of immune system modulation and ongoing research into regenerative therapies.
4. Immune Dysfunction Theory: Impaired immune surveillance allows ectopic endometrial-like tissue to implant and persist.
Influence on Treatment: I focus on optimizing the immune environment through anti-inflammatory strategies, adjunctive therapies (e.g., low-dose naltrexone), and encouraging overall immune health.
5. Genetic and Epigenetic Theories: A genetic predisposition and epigenetic modifications may make certain individuals more susceptible to developing endometriosis.
Influence on Treatment: Understanding that endometriosis is likely influenced by heritable factors helps me counsel patients on recurrence risk and tailor long-term management strategies.
6. Lymphatic and Hematogenous Spread Theory: Endometrial-like cells spread through the lymphatic system or bloodstream, explaining distant lesions.
Influence on Treatment: This theory highlights the importance of a systemic approach to the disease, particularly in cases with extra pelvic manifestations.
My Approach:
Excision Surgery: Recognizing that excision addresses the visible and tangible lesions of endometriosis regardless of origin, I prioritize this approach for definitive treatment.
Multidisciplinary Care: I integrate pelvic floor physical therapy, dietary interventions, pain management strategies, and psychological support to address the systemic impact of the disease.
Patient-Centered Care: I emphasize shared decision-making, tailoring treatment plans based on the severity of symptoms, goals, and individual patient needs.
Ongoing Education and Research: Staying updated on emerging theories and treatments is critical to providing the most effective care.
By addressing endometriosis as a multifactorial condition, I aim to provide comprehensive and compassionate care that not only alleviates symptoms but also improves the overall quality of life for my patients.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision
Medication: In my practice, I incorporate a range of medications tailored to the individual needs of patients with endometriosis, always balancing symptom relief with long-term management goals. Here’s an overview of the medications I use and how I recommend them:
I frequently use hormonal therapies. Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are a first-line option for mild to moderate symptoms or as a trial before more invasive interventions. These are used continuously or cyclically to suppress ovulation and reduce menstrual flow, which helps decrease inflammation and pain by reducing hormonal cycling. Progestins, such as norethindrone acetate, dienogest, or medroxyprogesterone acetate, are another option, particularly for patients who cannot tolerate estrogen or prefer non-estrogen approaches. These can be delivered orally, via injection (Depo-Provera), or intrauterine (e.g., Mirena IUD), thinning endometrial tissue and suppressing ovulation to reduce lesion activity and pain. GnRH agonists and antagonists, such as leuprolide (Lupron) or elagolix (Orilissa), are often used for moderate to severe symptoms or as an adjunct to surgery. These induce a hypoestrogenic state and are used short-term due to side effects like bone density loss, often combined with add-back therapy to mitigate these side effects. For long-term management, especially for those seeking contraception, levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs (e.g., Mirena or Kyleena) provide localized progestin release, reducing heavy bleeding and pelvic pain with minimal systemic effects.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: I often recommend NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, for acute pain or in combination with other therapies. These are most effective when taken around the clock during symptom flares to reduce prostaglandin-mediated inflammation and pain. Neuromodulators like gabapentin or amitriptyline are used for neuropathic or chronic pelvic pain that persists despite hormonal or surgical management, typically initiated at low doses and titrated as needed. Low-dose naltrexone is another option for chronic pain and inflammation, taken nightly with patient education about its gradual onset. For bowel-related symptoms, I may use antispasmodics like dicyclomine as needed during symptom flares to reduce smooth muscle spasms.
Dr. Amanda Chu
Dr. Amanda Chu
Amanda Chu MD – Endometriosis Specialist
Summary: Dr Amanda Chu MD is a highly regarded endometriosis specialist based in New York City. With a patient-centered philosophy, Dr Amanda Chu MD emphasizes that no single theory fully explains endometriosis, though she draws from retrograde menstruation, coelomic metaplasia, and emerging research in epigenetics and immune dysfunction to guide individualized care. She specializes in excision surgery, supported by thoughtful use of continuous progesterone-only medications to manage symptoms while avoiding more aggressive hormonal therapies when possible. Dr Chu takes a holistic approach to persistent pain after surgery, focusing on reducing inflammation and addressing musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain through non-invasive strategies. She acknowledges the importance of treating coexisting conditions and embraces complementary medicine as part of a broader, multidisciplinary care plan. Patients can expect compassionate, personalized treatment that integrates the latest research and whole-person care principles.
City: New York City, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: No single theory adequately explains all presentations of endometriosis, but I believe that certain theories play more of a role in individual patients. Older theories have merit, e.g., retrograde menstruation and coelomic metaplasia, but we are constantly increasing our knowledge of endometriosis, & I think that epigenetics and immune dysregulation will become increasingly important.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis?: Excision
Medication: Currently, hormonal medications are a useful and, at times, necessary adjunctive for cyclic symptoms and ovarian cyst prevention. Typically, I utilize continuous progesterone-only medications with the goal of amenorrhea/anovulation. I prefer to avoid GnRH agonists/antagonists for long-term use, given their severe side effect profile.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: Postoperatively, I prefer to focus on finding less invasive ways to decrease inflammatory, musculoskeletal, & neuropathic pain rather than repetitive procedures. I believe in treating all etiologies of pain, including often coexisting comorbidities, and well as being receptive to approaches that expand beyond traditional Western medicine. Finally, the mental & social impact of endometriosis cannot be overstated, and a multidisciplinary team is essential.
Dr. Brooke Winner
Dr. Brooke Winner
Brooke Winner – Endometriosis Specialist
Summary: Dr Brooke Winner is a compassionate and highly skilled endometriosis specialist based in Seattle, Washington. With a deep belief in the embryologic origin theory of endometriosis, Dr Brooke Winner approaches care with the understanding that many patients are born with misplaced endometrial cells, explaining why symptoms often begin with the first period. She specializes in excision surgery, providing targeted and effective treatment tailored to each individual’s needs.
Dr Brooke Winner works closely with patients to explore hormone therapy options when appropriate, always prioritizing shared decision-making. She typically avoids treatments like Lupron or Orlissa due to potential side effects, but respects that they may benefit some patients. Her approach to persistent pain after surgery is holistic and multidisciplinary, incorporating pelvic floor therapy, acupuncture, nutrition, and mental health support. Patients appreciate her thoughtful, personalized care and commitment to long-term wellness.
City: Seattle, Washington, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe in the embryologic origin theory, which basically says you are born with the endometriosis cells in the wrong place. This would explain why so many endometriosis patients say that their periods have been terrible ever since they started.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision
Medication: Some patients respond well to hormone therapy, and others do not. There is no “one size fits all” approach. We will discuss the options available, the pros and cons given your unique situation, and ultimately the decision is up to you. We typically do not use Lupron or Orlissa to treat endometriosis due to significant side effects, although there are some patients who have found these medications helpful as well.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: The persistence of symptoms postoperatively is multifaceted and requires a multidisciplinary approach. One common issue is pelvic floor muscle spasms, in which case pelvic floor physical therapy can be helpful. Vaginal suppositories, acupuncture, massage, nutrition and mental health counseling can all be beneficial as well.
Website: https://www.fullspectrumgyn.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.brookewinner/
Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT
Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT, CSCS, PCES, Cert-DN
Jillian Lipari—Endometriosis, Physical Therapist
Summary: Jillian Lipari is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist based in Bedminster, New Jersey. At Ethos Pelvic Health and Wellness, Jillian Lipari, PT, DPT, provides trauma-informed care that prioritizes each patient’s unique experience and needs. Her sessions are tailored and may include visceral mobilization, dry needling, soft tissue and cranial work, internal myofascial release, and somatic movement strategies. Jillian emphasizes nervous system regulation and patient education, particularly around the brain’s fear and trauma responses. She believes in building a strong therapeutic alliance and collaborating with the patient’s broader care team to ensure holistic, well-rounded support. Jillian Lipari’s approach is compassionate, empowering, and grounded in both clinical skill and emotional understanding, helping patients feel safe, supported, and involved in their healing journey.
City: Bedminster, NJ, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Dr. Gina Ranieri
Dr. Gina Ranieri
Gina Ranieri – Endometriosis Specialist
Summary: Dr Gina Ranieri is an experienced endometriosis specialist based in Princeton, New Jersey. Gina Ranieri’s approach to endometriosis care is rooted in the belief that the condition often originates during embryologic development, involving coelomic metaplasia or embryonic cell remnants. This perspective helps explain endometriosis in patients without menstruation and in unusual locations. Dr Gina Ranieri performs precise excision surgery to remove endometriosis lesions while prioritizing patient well-being. For those not pursuing surgery or to prevent recurrence, she prescribes hormonal treatments such as the levonorgestrel IUD and combined oral contraceptives. Post-surgery, Gina Ranieri carefully evaluates persistent pain by considering other causes, referring patients to pelvic floor physical therapy, and administering trigger point or Botox injections. She also uses non-opioid pain medications and advanced imaging to guide further treatment, always focusing on personalized, compassionate care.
City: Princeton, New Jersey, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: The theory of endometriosis that I believe makes the most sense is that endometriosis likely originates during embryologic development either through coelomic metaplasia or embryonic cell remnants. This explains how endometriosis can be seen in non-menstruating patients and areas outside the abdominopelvic cavity.
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis: Excision
Medication: I will use hormonal medications such as the levonorgestrel IUD, combined oral contraceptive pills, Depo-Provera, or norethindrone for patients who are not interested in surgical treatment or to prevent recurrence after surgical excision in select patients.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: For patients who have undergone complete surgical excision of endometriosis and continue to report symptoms, I will often explore other pain generators. I do refer patients to pelvic floor physical therapy and perform pelvic floor trigger point and Botox injections, as well as abdominal wall injections to treat myofascial pain. I will also prescribe non-opioid, centrally acting pain medications for patients with very challenging-to-treat pain. If I suspect that the patient’s endometriosis has returned, I will often order imaging in the form of an MRI and potentially offer repeat surgery in appropriate and select patients.
Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT
Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT
Abigail Daunis—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Abigail Daunis is a compassionate endometriosis physical therapist based in Nashville, Tennessee. At Peak Tempo PT, Abigail Daunis, PT, DPT, offers individualized, evidence-based care that begins with truly listening to each patient’s goals and concerns. Her treatment approach includes a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, dry needling, and, when appropriate, internal vaginal muscle release and cupping. Abigail focuses on creating a supportive, respectful environment where patients feel heard and empowered. With a deep understanding of the physical and emotional toll of endometriosis, she tailors every plan to reduce pain, improve pelvic function, and support long-term healing. Abigail Daunis is committed to helping her patients regain control over their health and feel confident throughout their physical therapy journey.
City: Nashville, TN, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital/At Home; Virtual
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Jill Cramp, PT, DPT
Jill Cramp, PT, DPT
Jill Cramp—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Jill Cramp is a compassionate and trauma-informed endometriosis physical therapist based in Poland, Maine. At Saco Bay Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, Jill Cramp, PT, DPT, provides individualized care that begins with truly listening. She understands the challenges many patients face with delayed diagnoses and seeks to create a safe, validating space for healing. Her treatment focuses on relieving bladder, bowel, and sexual symptoms through a personalized blend of breathwork, visceral and myofascial mobilization, dry needling, and targeted exercises. Jill emphasizes the power of movement and education to reduce inflammation and support long-term wellness. With deep clinical expertise and a patient-first mindset, Jill Cramp helps individuals with endometriosis feel seen, supported, and empowered in their care journey.
City: Poland, ME, USA
Visit types: Office
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT
Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT
Kelly Djernes—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Kelly Djernes is a skilled endometriosis physical therapist based in Omaha, Nebraska, offering compassionate, whole-body care at Nebraska Core + Pelvic Therapy. Kelly Djernes, PT, DPT, believes in addressing the full spectrum of systems impacted by endometriosis, using evidence-based treatments to reduce pain and restore function. Her approach blends therapeutic movement, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapy techniques—including cupping, myofascial release, dry needling, and visceral mobilization—and personalized self-care strategies. Kelly creates a warm, supportive environment where patients feel heard, informed, and empowered to make confident choices about their care. With a focus on education and collaboration, Kelly Djernes guides each patient toward long-term relief and improved quality of life. Her dedication to treating the whole person ensures that care is as individualized as the people she serves.
City: Omaha, NE, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT
Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT
Kristen Munoz—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Kristen Munoz is a compassionate and experienced endometriosis physical therapist based in New York City. At Body Harmony Physical Therapy, Kristen Munoz, PT, DPT, takes a whole-body approach to care, blending yoga, Pilates, and hands-on techniques to support patients with chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. Her treatment style is gentle, integrative, and deeply patient-centered, focusing on improving pelvic stability, relieving visceral pain, and restoring bladder and bowel function. Kristen empowers her patients through personalized movement, mindfulness, and lifestyle strategies, helping them feel supported and in control of their healing journey. Her unique blend of clinical expertise and holistic philosophy provides effective, long-term relief while addressing the emotional and physical toll of endometriosis. Kristen Munoz works closely with each individual to create a sense of harmony, reduce stress, and improve quality of life.
City: New York, NY, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English and Spanish
Interpreting services for other languages: No
Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH
Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH
Rachel Clark—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Rachel Clark, PT, DPT, MPH, is a highly experienced endometriosis physical therapist at Sana Physical Therapy in East Aurora, NY. With over 20 years in orthopedics and 9 years in pelvic health, Rachel Clark offers one-on-one, hour-long sessions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. She takes a whole-body, integrative approach, combining orthopedic and pelvic health techniques to address pain, adhesions, and movement dysfunction. Her methods include manual therapy, pelvic floor assessment and treatment, myofascial release, joint mobilizations, and Pilates-based rehabilitation. Rachel Clark also provides extensive patient education and collaborates with a dedicated team—including pelvic floor therapists and an in-house RDN—to ensure comprehensive care. Her practice addresses both bladder and bowel dysfunctions associated with endometriosis, using evidence-based strategies to improve mobility, manage symptoms, and restore function.
City: East Aurora, NY, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
As a physical therapist practicing for 20 years in orthopedics and 9 years in pelvic health, I treat with a variety of treatment strategies that are patient-specific. I currently co-own Sana Physical Therapy, where treatment and evaluation are an hour in length and one-on-one with the physical therapist, never using aides or assistants to provide care. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and as both an orthopedic and pelvic health specialist, I utilize my expertise by examining the whole body pertaining to pain and movement dysfunction. I perform manual therapy, soft tissue, and myofascial release techniques, and joint mobilizations as necessary. I perform pelvic floor physical therapy for both bladder and bowel dysfunction associated with endometriosis. I am trained to perform internal manual therapy treatment and assessment to address adhesions and restrictions within the pelvic floor. I use down-training and up-training principles along with neuromuscular education and pain science education. I employ exercise prescriptions for my patients needing to regain ROM, improve tissue mobility, and decrease restrictions and adhesions. I spend a long time educating each of my patients on their physical therapy plan of care, home exercise program, and pain and symptom management techniques. I work alongside 2 additional pelvic floor physical therapists, and we collaborate with case management and provide monthly in-service and clinical skill enhancement workshops. We also treat male pelvic floor disorders at our clinic. We have a strong referral source and collaboration from the local physician community treating patients with endometriosis, and we also have an RDN working at our clinic.
I am also yoga and Pilates certified and employ Pilates-based rehabilitation principles as necessary, with patients benefiting from this type of movement-based training and care.
Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT
Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT
Brynn Patterson—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Brynn Patterson, PT, DPT, is an experienced endometriosis physical therapist and co-founder of Sana Physical Therapy in East Aurora, NY. With over 20 years in physical therapy and specialized pelvic health training from the Herman & Wallace Institute, Brynn Patterson offers personalized, one-on-one care focused on relieving pain and improving pelvic function. Her approach includes manual therapy techniques like visceral mobilization and myofascial release to address adhesions and soft tissue restrictions in the abdomen and pelvic floor. She also guides patients through therapeutic exercises to restore strength and mobility, alongside education on self-care and symptom management. Committed to comprehensive care, Brynn Patterson collaborates with other health professionals to support each patient’s unique journey toward improved wellness.
City: East Aurora, NY
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
Dr. Patterson is passionate about providing the highest level of care to all her patients, especially those with endometriosis. She provides personalized, one-hour-long treatment sessions without the use of aids or PT assistants. She uses several strategies for alleviating pain and reducing inflammation by providing manual therapy to address adhesions and restrictions in soft tissue in both the abdomen and pelvic floor, including visceral mobilization and myofascial release. She provides therapeutic exercises to promote full ROM and strength in the pelvic floor muscles, including relaxation and stretches to down-train areas as appropriate. She educates patients on self-care, symptom management, and how to advocate for their medical care. She refers patients to the appropriate health professionals, i.e.,. Nutritionists and specialized OB-GYNs provide appropriate pre- and post-op care as necessary.
Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
Erika Darbro—Endometriosis Physical Therapist
Summary: Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC, is a dedicated endometriosis physical therapist at Envision Pelvic Health & Wellness in Chicago, Illinois. Erika Darbro embraces a holistic approach to care, beginning with patient education to help individuals better understand their condition. She employs a range of hands-on techniques, including visceral manipulation, myofascial release (both external and internal), therapeutic cupping, and dry needling. Erika also incorporates vagus nerve upregulation and yoga-based stretching to promote mobility and overall wellness. Her compassionate care focuses on empowering patients with effective tools and personalized treatments to improve quality of life and manage endometriosis symptoms naturally.
City: Chicago, IL, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
