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What Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

Pelvic congestion syndrome (also known as pelvic vein reflux) is a condition where the veins in the pelvis become unusually enlarged, causing blood to pool inside them. This commonly occurs in women between 20-45 and can cause pelvic pain that other pelvic abnormalities cannot explain. At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, our board-certified doctors are trained to treat this condition with state-of-the-art equipment at our facility in Houston, TX. Pelvic congestion syndrome is treatable, so you do not have to live with the pain and discomfort.

doctor during surgery

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Symptoms

Multiple factors contribute to pelvic congestion syndrome, including hormonal abnormalities, multiple pregnancies, weight gain. The symptoms range, but the most common and obvious is a dull pain that persists for several months, qualifying it as a chronic condition. It will worsen as the day goes on, especially for women who sit or stand all day. The discomfort usual goes away after a night of sleep. The pain can also worsen during or following intercourse, around menstrual periods, and after some exercises and activities, such as bicycling and horseback riding. Some additional symptoms include vaginal discharge and pain during intercourse, plus backaches and a frequent urination. Many patients experience swollen veins in the vagina or vulva.

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The Risk Factors of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

There are several risk factors associated with PCS, including pregnancy, which causes structural changes to a woman’s pelvis. The changes can impact their blood vessels and cause the twisted varicose veins that cause the condition. Another way pregnancy affects a woman’s body is the fluid and weight gain that accompanies pregnancy. The veins cannot always cope with the increased fluid volume and become engorged to the point that the valves become damaged. Lastly, pregnancy increases estrogen levels, and some studies have demonstrated that increased estrogen can weaken the blood vessel walls. As a result of these risk factors, pregnant women or have had past pregnancies are most at risk of developing the condition.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment

While there is no cure for PCS, our treatment options can vastly improve your quality of life. The most effective treatment method available to us is called a pelvic vein embolization (PVE) procedure. During this procedure, you can expect one of our specialists to insert a catheter into a vein in the groin and up into the pelvic veins. It won’t hurt because it only requires a small nick in the skin. From there, we take x-rays for guidance and deliver coils that seal the faulty vein.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Diagnosis Methods

There are several ways to diagnose pelvic congestion syndrome. One popular method is ultrasound. CT Scans, MRIs, and venograms are also common medical tests that can diagnose PCS. At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, we always start with the least invasive and uncomfortable methods and work from there.

Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment With Us

Nobody should have to suffer from chronic pain. If you are living with pelvic pain, then we may have answers for you. Pelvic congestion syndrome might cause intense pain and discomfort, but it is treatable. Our medical professionals understand the condition and how to treat each patient on an individualized basis. We are a team of board-certified doctors dedicated to treating vein and vascular conditions like pelvic congestion syndrome. We are ready to deliver pain relief to you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Premier Vein & Vascular Center.

Call Premier Vein and Vascular Center to Schedule Your Appointment Today!