How Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treated?

Dr.Abhishek Bansal, 3 mins read

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a treatable condition. There are medications to suppress the estrogen level and, thus, the symptoms. If medications don’t work, there are minimally invasive and non-surgical procedures which can give you relief. This guide will briefly discuss the condition and its treatment options. So, let’s start!

What Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

Pelvic congestion syndrome, also known as pelvic venous insufficiency, is characterised by chronic pelvic pain. Sometimes, this pain also occurs due to menstruation or pregnancy. If these are not the reasons, it is most probably PCS. This pain usually lasts over a few months, causes a range of symptoms, and often the diagnosis may be missed. 

Symptoms 

• Worsening pain after standing or sitting for long periods. However, you may feel better when you lie down. 
• The pain usually starts during or after pregnancy and may worsen gradually during future pregnancies
• The pain can be dull, achy or heavy
• The pain may be felt on the left side only, on the right side or on both sides
• Pain may feel worse in the evening or before or during periods
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Swelling in the pelvic area
• Varicose veins in the buttocks, thighs, pelvis, vulva, or vagina
• Stress incontinence (Involuntary urine leakage)
• Pain while peeing 
• Frequent diarrhoea or constipation 

Causes 

The exact cause of pelvic congestion syndrome is unknown. However, experts believe PCS is linked to interrupted blood flow to the ovarian and pelvic veins. 

The veins in the ovaries and pelvis carry the deoxygenated blood to the heart. These veins have small valves that prevent the backflow of blood. When these valves malfunction due to any reason, the blood starts accumulating in the veins, causing them to inflate and twist. This causes chronic pain in the pelvis.  

There are many risk factors for vein valve dysfunction. Some of them are as follows:

• Hormonal changes (Such as increased estrogen levels)
• Pregnancy-related vein enlargement
• Weak vein walls and valves
• Varicose veins
• A family history of varicose veins 
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Who Is At Higher Risk? 

• Between the ages of 20 and 45 years and have given birth more than once.
• Having varicose veins or a family history of varicose veins.
• Having polycystic ovarian syndrome. 

Please note that PCS rarely occurs after menopause. However, it is still possible in post-menopausal women if vein valves are severely dilated before menopause. 

Treatment 

Treatment for PCS depends on the severity of symptoms. The treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome focuses on easing the symptoms. Your gynaecologist or interventional radiologist may recommend you: 

Lifestyle Changes & Home Remedies

• Exercise regularly to improve circulation
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting
• Wear compression garments to support blood flow
• Maintain a healthy weight

Medications

Medications that suppress estrogen levels may help ease the symptoms of PCS. But don’t take any medication without a prescription. 

Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Ovarian/pelvic vein embolization or sclerotherapy: A non-surgical procedure where a small catheter is used to inject a solution to close off problematic veins. This improves blood flow and reduces pain.
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Another non-surgical procedure that uses a catheter and heat energy to close off abnormal veins. It has a high success rate and can provide you with impactful results. 

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing chronic pelvic pain that doesn’t improve with basic treatments, consult us at Aakash Healthcare. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the quality of life. We have a team of India’s best interventional radiologists for the treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome with no-surgical, safe, and effective techniques. These procedures are usually done on a daycare basis and offer significant relief from the symptoms within a few hours of the procedure.