Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

What is Pelvic Venous Insufficiency?

There are many different causes of pelvic pain, but it is often related to the existence of ovarian and pelvic varicose veins. Varicose veins are a result of valves in the veins that don’t work correctly. Valves are designed to help veins return blood to the heart by preventing back-flow of blood down the vein. When the valves don’t work, this lets the blood pool in the vein resulting in pressure and bulging veins. When these varicose veins are in the pelvis the condition is known as pelvic venous insufficiency (PVI) – also referred to as pelvic congestion syndrome.

What is the prevalence of Pelvic Venous Insufficiency?

Studies show that 30% of patients with chronic pelvic pain have pelvic venous insufficiency (PVI) as a cause of their pelvic pain. The majority of women are in their childbearing years and less than 45 years old. Risk factors for PVI include multiple pregnancies, polycystic ovarian syndrome, fullness of the leg veins, and hormonal dysfunction.

What are the symptoms of Pelvic Venous Insufficiency?

Women with PVI usually complain of a dull aching and heaviness in the pelvis that is worsened by standing, pregnancy, and menstruation. Sometimes this pain may be experienced in the lower back. There may also be visible varicose veins in the groin area, buttocks, or upper thigh.

Treatment

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome is treated with Pelvic Venous Embolization. Learn more about this treatment.