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Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin) Treatment Near Richmond, VA
Obtain thorough care and effective relief for pelvic congestion syndrome
What Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome / Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin?
Pelvic congestion syndrome, also known as PCS, is a condition caused by varicose veins in the pelvic region. The term is increasingly being referred to as Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin. These enlarged veins develop due to weakened vein walls and damaged valves that normally prevent blood from flowing backward. This condition can cause ongoing pelvic pain that intensifies when standing, sitting for long periods, or during sexual activity. Other common symptoms include fatigue, a sense of heaviness in the pelvis, and bloating.
Poorly functioning veins can lead to persistent discomfort and impact the pelvic organs. Although pelvic congestion syndrome or pelvic pain of venous origin is more frequently seen in women who have had multiple pregnancies, it can affect anyone with certain risk factors.
Why Does Pelvic Congestion Syndrome / Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin Occur?
Pelvic congestion syndrome, also known as pelvic pain of venous origin, develops when the pelvic veins, including the ovarian veins, do not circulate blood efficiently. This results in blood pooling or backflow, forming varicose veins that create pressure and pain.
Factors that contribute to this condition include:
- Hormonal changes that weaken vein walls
- Increased blood flow and vein damage during pregnancy
- Compression of pelvic veins
- Genetic predisposition or multiple pregnancies
The accumulation of blood in the pelvic veins leads to the congestion and discomfort characteristic of this condition.
How Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome / Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pelvic congestion syndrome, also known as pelvic pain of venous origin, involves multiple steps. Your provider will start with a thorough review of your medical history and a detailed discussion of your symptoms. Imaging methods, such as vaginal ultrasound, pelvic venography, or magnetic resonance imaging, are commonly used to examine the pelvic veins and detect varicose veins or irregular blood flow.
In the past, pelvic venography, a specialized X-ray that highlights the pelvic veins, was the standard for confirming the diagnosis. Today, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans that focus on blood flow are often sufficient. These diagnostic tools allow your provider to identify the underlying cause of pelvic pain accurately.
One of the more complex aspects of pelvic pain of venous origin is determining whether the enlarged pelvic veins are truly responsible for your symptoms rather than being incidental findings. Simply identifying dilated veins on imaging is not enough to confirm the diagnosis. Researchers and clinicians continue to explore more precise methods for identifying which patients are most likely to benefit from treatment.
How Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome / Pelvic Pain of Venous Origin Treated?
Treatment for pelvic congestion syndrome, also called pelvic pain of venous origin, aims to relieve discomfort and address the underlying vein problems. Common strategies include:
- Ovarian vein embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that blocks affected veins to restore proper blood flow and reduce symptoms
- Medications to control pain and support healthy circulation
- Lifestyle modifications, such as limiting prolonged periods of sitting or standing
- Surgical closure of pelvic varicose veins
Your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to manage your symptoms effectively and enhance your overall quality of life.
What To Expect During Your Appointment
During your visit, your provider will review your symptoms, including how long you have been experiencing pelvic pain and its intensity. They may perform a physical examination and use a pelvic ultrasound or other imaging tests to assess the pelvic veins.
If a diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome, also known as pelvic pain of venous origin, is confirmed, initial treatment usually involves conservative approaches such as medications, including progestins, or lifestyle adjustments. If symptoms continue, your provider may refer you to an interventional radiologist for procedures like ovarian vein embolization or other targeted treatments to address the underlying cause of the congestion. Throughout your care, your provider will work with you to determine the most effective options for relieving your symptoms.
Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology
The Center for Advanced Gynecology, founded in 2018, is committed to supporting your health by providing expert care across a wide range of gynecological services, with a particular focus on advanced surgical techniques when surgery is necessary.
Our team offers in-depth expertise in non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and discomfort in the vaginal, vulvar, and bladder regions.
Since opening, we have recognized the importance of offering more than specialized care alone for Richmond, VA patients. Our practice has expanded to include comprehensive services such as routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap tests, menopause management, treatment for hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast health care, contraceptive guidance, management of urinary incontinence, and treatment for pelvic organ prolapse, ensuring a full spectrum of care for women’s health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical symptoms include chronic pelvic discomfort, lower abdominal pain, and increased pain after standing, sitting, or sexual activity. Other signs may include bloating, fatigue, and in some cases, visible varicose veins in the vulva or labial area. Some individuals also notice pain that worsens during their menstrual cycle.
Although it may not be possible to completely prevent pelvic congestion syndrome, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying active, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing can promote better blood circulation and may help reduce the risk of developing vein-related issues.
Treatment options can include ovarian vein embolization, medications to manage pain, and lifestyle adjustments aimed at improving blood flow. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered to address persistent symptoms.
Ovarian vein embolization is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat pelvic congestion syndrome / pelvic pain of venous origin by blocking affected veins, improving blood circulation, and relieving symptoms. It is typically recommended for patients experiencing ongoing or severe pelvic pain caused by varicose veins.