Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
If you’re experiencing chronic pelvic pain, discomfort, or heaviness, you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Manish Taneja at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and tailored treatments to address the unique needs of pelvic congestion syndrome.
Overview
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition that causes chronic pain in the pelvis. This is caused by congestion of veins in the pelvis or lower abdomen caused by weakening of venous valves.
Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
The pain associated with PCS presents as a dull ache or a sensation of heaviness in the pelvis. It can last 3 to 6 months and can be one or both sides of the pelvis with left side more frequently affected . However, the pain can switch from one side to the other. Any factor increasing the abdominal pressure (walking, postural changes, lifting, and longtime standing position) can increase the intensity of pain. It is often exacerbated before or during the menstrual period. The intensity of pain worsens with each subsequent pregnancy, and during or after sexual intercourse. The time of the day also affects the intensity with pain being worse at the end of the day.
This condition typically affects women in the age group of 20-50 years after multiple pregnancies. There are two types
- Primary PCS: no cause is found.
- Secondary PCS: due to compression of veins by adjacent blood vessels with congestion.
How Is a Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Diagnosed?
- Clinical evaluation
- CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment Options
Ovarian Vein Embolization
This is a nonsurgical day surgery procedure done under light intravenous sedation. It involves inserting a small 2 mm tube called catheter from the groin and advancing into pelvic veins selectively under guidance. The procedure takes about one hour. There is no pain post-procedure with some patients describing mild discomfort for a day or two. Most patients are back to full activity within a couple of days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pelvic congestion syndrome?
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a pelvic venous disorder associated with abnormal blood flow and enlarged veins within the pelvis. It may contribute to chronic pelvic pain, pelvic heaviness and pressure in some patients.
What does pelvic congestion syndrome feel like?
PCS may cause a dull, aching or heavy sensation in the pelvis. Symptoms may become worse after prolonged standing or towards the end of the day and may sometimes be associated with lower back discomfort or pain during or after sexual intercourse.
What causes pelvic congestion syndrome?
PCS is associated with abnormal blood flow or venous reflux within the pelvic veins. Pelvic venous insufficiency, ovarian vein reflux, pregnancy-related changes and changes in pelvic venous drainage may contribute.
How is pelvic congestion syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves assessing symptoms and medical history together with appropriate imaging. Depending on the individual situation, ultrasound, CT, MRI or venography may be used to evaluate pelvic veins and blood flow.
Does having enlarged pelvic veins mean I have pelvic congestion syndrome?
No. Enlarged pelvic veins can occur in people who do not have symptoms. The imaging findings need to be considered together with symptoms, blood flow characteristics and other possible causes of pelvic pain.
Which specialist treats pelvic congestion syndrome?
A vascular and interventional specialist can assess whether pelvic venous abnormalities may be contributing to symptoms and discuss appropriate management options where a vascular cause is suspected.
Can pelvic congestion syndrome be treated?
Yes, selected patients with symptomatic pelvic venous disease may be considered for treatment. Management depends on the individual’s symptoms, venous anatomy and clinical findings.
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