Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment in Arizona

Pelvic congestion syndrome also known as vulvar varicosities or ovarian reflux is a common cause of chronic pain in up to 40% of women. 10 to 14 percent of gynecologist referrals are due to this syndrome. It is caused by dilation of the ovarian and/or pelvic veins in the lower abdomen. The typical age range when a woman develops PCS is from age 20-45 years old.

If you are suffering from pelvic congestion syndrome, it is important that you schedule an appointment with Western Vascular. With over three offices located in Florence, Mesa, and Payson, AZ we are able to offer hospital-based surgical & endovascular care to patients in the area. Our board-certified vascular surgeons will take the time to answer any questions you may have and help discover the best treatment plan for you.  For more information, call one of our vein and vascular clinics in Arizona at (480) 668-5000 and schedule an appointment with one of our vascular surgeons today!

What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

According to Cedars-Sinai the main symptoms that is associated with pelvic congestion is pelvic pain that last up to 6 months, the article also mentioned several more symptoms that can be experienced:

• Pelvic or low back pain that increases after long periods of sitting or standing.
• Pelvic or low back pain that increases after long periods of sitting or standing
• Pain after intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Pain before the menstrual cycle
• Visible varicose veins around the vulva, vagina, inner thigh, and sometimes the buttocks and legs
• Painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
• Abnormal bleeding during menstruation
• Fatigue, depression
• Swelling of the vagina or vulva
• Abnormal tenderness, increased urination, hip pain, and dragging sensation

What Are the Risk Factors of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

How is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Diagnosed?

• Transvaginal Ultrasounds (the Gold-Standard test).
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Computed Tomography (CT) will provide visualization of incompetent veins and allow for the proper treatment plan.
• Pelvic Venography-Used to provide a definitive diagnosis and provide treatment at the same time.

How is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treated?

Medications such as NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, chronic pain medications such as gabapentin and amitriptyline.

Ovarian / pelvic vein coil embolization: A catheter is placed into the vein wherein coil emboli (Small medical-grade spheres) are placed into the affected vein blocking the flow of blood in that area allowing the blood to reroute through healthier veins. This procedure can be done in an outpatient setting and has a 98% success rate. Shows a decrease in pain of 83% of patients in long-term follow-up.