Pelvic Congestion Syndrome 101: Varicose Veins in the Pelvis
Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain. It’s often described as an aching or sharp pain in the pelvic area that doesn’t go away. In most cases, the pain only occurs on one side of the body and can be worse in the evening.
PCS can also lead to large swollen veins known as varicose veins. While these are most common in the legs and feet, it’s also possible for PCS to cause varicose veins in the pelvis, thighs, buttocks area, or vaginal area.
Thankfully, there is hope for those suffering from PCS. Let’s talk about this syndrome, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. If these issues sound familiar to you, reach out to a trusted pelvic pain specialist for an assessment!
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome: What It Is and What Causes It
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a very common but underdiagnosed condition affecting an estimated 10 million women. It is characterized by what’s called ovarian and pelvic vein dilation. Simply put, that means the blood vessels in and around your reproductive organs are widened. Valves in the widened veins then fail to close, resulting in a backward flow of blood that can pool within the pelvis.
We know that vein dilation happens when the walls of your veins weaken and relax. What’s less clear is what causes this relaxation to happen. PCS tends to affect women between 20 and 45 who have had multiple pregnancies, so hormonal changes, especially excess estrogen, and weight gain could be risk factors.
Symptoms of PCS
The most prevalent symptom of PCS is a dull or aching pain in the pelvis or lower back. This pain may be accompanied by a sense of heaviness, pressure, or fullness in the abdomen. These symptoms may get worse in the evening, when you’re standing, or around the time of your period.
Other common symptoms may include any of the following:
Irritable bladder and urine leakage that happens when you cough, sneeze, or perform physical activities
Pain or discomfort during sex
Vaginal or vulvar varicose veins (bulging veins around the front of the vagina)
Varicose veins on the upper legs or buttocks
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Many doctors have trouble diagnosing PCS, since pelvic pain is a common issue with many possible causes. Thankfully, a specialist healthcare provider like Dr. Sullivan can diagnose PCS using the advanced resources available at Statesboro Women’s Health’s state-of-the-art facilities. With a full consultation, physical exam, on-site lab tests, and the latest diagnostic tests, we can determine the cause of your pelvic pain and implement a treatment plan.
Treatment for PCS may include one or more of the following:
Hormone treatments such as gonadotropin, which blocks ovarian function, or progestin, which eases pain.
Ovarian embolization and sclerotherapy, both of which are procedures that shut off damaged veins in the ovaries and block the backflow of blood.
Surgical vein removal
Total hysterectomy (removal of uterus and ovaries)
What to Do If You Think You Have Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
No matter what is causing your pelvic pain, know that pain is not a normal part of being a woman. You deserve to live a life free of constant heaviness in your pelvic floor, pain during intercourse, trouble standing, and all the other discomforts of PCS. If you think you may have PCS or are experiencing chronic pelvic pain, call Dr. Sullivan today!
Find Treatment for Pelvic Pain in Statesboro, GA, with Dr. Gary B. Sullivan, FACOG, FACS
Dr. Gary B. Sullivan is an award-winning OB/GYN with a mission to help women find relief from endometriosis and other causes of pelvic pain. Operating within the state-of-the-art Statesboro Women’s Health Specialists & Surgery Center, Dr. Sullivan has the expertise and cutting-edge technology to accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Call 912-642-3279 or contact us online today!