DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Back to Globe
Gynecologic Condition

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

MODERATE

Chronic pelvic pain caused by varicose veins in the pelvis. Often underdiagnosed and associated with incompetent valves in ovarian and pelvic veins.

Global Affected

800.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Dull, aching pelvic pain (>6 months)
Pain worse when standing or sitting
Pain worse before menstruation
Pain during/after intercourse
Visible varicose veins on thighs/buttocks
Back pain
Vaginal discharge

Treatment Options

Ovarian vein embolization
Internal iliac vein embolization
Medroxyprogesterone acetate
GnRH agonists
NSAIDs for pain
Laparoscopic vein ligation
Hysterectomy with oophorectomy (refractory cases)

Risk Factors

1Multiple pregnancies
2Full, bulky uterus
3Polycystic ovaries
4Hormonal dysfunction
5Retroverted uterus
6Family history of varicose veins
7Age 20-45 years

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Transvaginal ultrasound with Doppler
  • 2Pelvic venography (gold standard)
  • 3CT or MR venography
  • 4Laparoscopy
  • 5Dilated pelvic veins on imaging

Prognosis

Fair to good with treatment. Ovarian vein embolization provides relief in 70-85% of patients. Pain recurrence in 15-30% within 5 years. Hormonal therapy effective in 50-60%. Hysterectomy with oophorectomy curative in 70% of refractory cases. Symptoms may persist despite treatment in some women. Multidisciplinary approach improves outcomes.

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Early diagnosis to prevent chronic pain
  • Compression garments may help symptoms

Research Status

Embolization of ovarian and pelvic veins, hormonal therapy (GnRH agonists, progestins), NSAIDs, and hysterectomy with oophorectomy as last resort. Laparoscopic vein ligation.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaSouth KoreaSouth Africa

Sources

  • https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/03/chronic-pelvic-pain
  • https://www.sirweb.org/patient-center/conditions-and-treatments/pelvic-congestion-syndrome
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559182

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.