Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) is a chronic condition that causes persistent pelvic pain in women, often due to varicose veins in the pelvis. At IYA Medical, our interventional radiologists offer minimally invasive treatment to provide lasting relief.
What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome occurs when varicose veins develop in the pelvis, similar to the varicose veins that can occur in the legs. These enlarged, dysfunctional veins cause blood to pool in the pelvic region, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. PCS is one of the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain in women, affecting up to 30% of women with this complaint.
Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
- Chronic pelvic pain: A dull, aching pain that worsens throughout the day, especially after standing or sitting for long periods
- Pain during or after intercourse
- Pain before or during menstruation
- Lower back pain
- Leg pain or heaviness
- Visible varicose veins on the thighs, buttocks, or vulva
- Bladder symptoms: Frequent urination or irritable bladder
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
Risk Factors
- Multiple pregnancies (most common risk factor)
- Hormonal dysfunction
- Full retroverted uterus
- Polycystic ovaries
- Family history of varicose veins
Diagnosis
Because PCS symptoms overlap with many other conditions, diagnosis can be challenging. At IYA Medical, we use advanced imaging techniques including:
- Pelvic ultrasound with Doppler to visualize blood flow
- MRI or CT venography to see the pelvic veins in detail
- Diagnostic venography (the gold standard) to confirm the diagnosis
Treatment: Ovarian Vein Embolization
IYA Medical specializes in Ovarian Vein Embolization, a minimally invasive procedure performed by our board-certified interventional radiologists. This outpatient procedure offers significant advantages over surgical alternatives:
How the Procedure Works:
- Using local anesthesia and light sedation, a small catheter is inserted through a tiny incision in the neck or groin
- Using real-time X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy), the catheter is guided to the affected pelvic veins
- Small coils and/or a sclerosing agent are placed to close off the dysfunctional veins
- Blood flow is redirected to healthy veins
Benefits of Ovarian Vein Embolization:
- Minimally invasive: No large incisions, just a small nick in the skin
- Outpatient procedure: Go home the same day
- Quick recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within a few days
- High success rate: 85-95% of patients experience significant pain relief
- Preserves fertility: Does not affect ability to have children
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 45-90 minutes. Patients may experience mild cramping or discomfort for a few days afterward, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most women notice improvement in their symptoms within 2-4 weeks, with continued improvement over several months.
Why Choose IYA Medical?
Our experienced interventional radiologists have successfully treated hundreds of women with PCS. We provide comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up, ensuring you receive personalized attention and the best possible outcomes.
Ready to find relief from chronic pelvic pain? Schedule a consultation with our specialists today.
