Pelvic Congestion Syndrome & Pelvic Venous Disorders
What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition in which can present with:
- Chronic pelvic pain, worse after prolonged standing or exercise
- Pelvic pain during/after sexual intercourse or around menstruation
- Vulval or groin varicose veins
- Recurrent varicose veins in the legs
Pelvic pain is very common and can have many different causes.
Enlarged pelvic veins seen on a scan do not necessarily mean that the veins are responsible for the symptoms.
For this reason, careful assessment is important before considering treatment.
What causes pelvic congestion syndrome?
Blood from the pelvis normally drains through a network of pelvic, ovarian and iliac veins back towards the heart.
Pelvic congestion may occur when valves within these veins do not function properly, or narrowing or compression of a major pelvic vein interferes with the venous drainage.
Previous pregnancies can contribute to enlarged pelvic veins.
This retention of blood in the pelvis and dilated veins within the pelvis, can be responsible for your symptoms.
There may be more than one abnormal vein involved, so treatment needs to be tailored to the pattern identified.
How does Dr Wu assess for pelvic congestion syndrome?
Assessment begins with a consultation to understand your symptoms, previous treatments and medical history.
We perform specialised venous ultrasound at your appointment as part of your assessment.
Ultrasound does not always provide all the information required, further imaging such as CT venography may be recommended.
A multi-disciplinary approach
Pelvic pain can arise from gynaecological, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, urological or venous conditions.
If appropriate, we work with other specialists to ensure alternative causes of pelvic symptoms are assessed and managed.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms vary considerably between patients. They may include:
- A dull or aching pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Pelvic heaviness or pressure, particularly later in the day
- Pain that is worse after prolonged standing
- Pain during or after sexual intercourse
- Pelvic discomfort around menstruation
- Varicose veins around the vulva, perineum or buttocks
- Varicose veins extending into the upper thigh
- Recurrent leg varicose veins despite previous treatment
Pelvic pain is very common and can have many different causes.
Enlarged pelvic veins seen on a scan do not necessarily mean that the veins are responsible for the symptoms.
Not every patient with enlarged pelvic veins require treatment.