Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

What Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) is a condition where varicose veins develop in the pelvis, causing chronic pelvic pain that lasts six months or longer. Just as varicose veins can develop in the legs, the veins in the pelvis can become enlarged and engorged with blood, leading to a persistent dull, aching pain.

PCS is more common than many people realize — research shows it affects approximately 13-14% of women and is one of the leading causes of chronic pelvic pain. It's frequently underdiagnosed because the symptoms overlap with many other conditions, and standard imaging doesn't always reveal pelvic varicose veins.

Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

PCS symptoms can vary in severity but typically include:

• Chronic dull pelvic pain — A persistent ache in the lower abdomen and pelvis, often described as heaviness or fullness
• Pain that worsens with standing or activity — Symptoms often increase throughout the day, especially after prolonged standing or walking
• Pain during or after intercourse — Known as dyspareunia, this is one of the hallmark symptoms
• Varicose veins on the vulva, buttocks, or thighs — Visible enlarged veins in these areas may indicate pelvic vein problems
• Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
• Lower back pain
• Urinary urgency or irritable bladder
• Hip pain

Diagnosing PCS

Because PCS symptoms mimic many other conditions, diagnosis often begins by ruling out other causes of chronic pelvic pain. Your specialist may use pelvic ultrasound (including transvaginal ultrasound), MRI, or CT scan to visualize the enlarged pelvic veins. A venogram — where dye is injected into the veins under imaging guidance — provides the most definitive diagnosis.

Treatment: Pelvic Vein Embolization

Pelvic Vein Embolization (PVE) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Using image guidance, a thin catheter is inserted through a small incision and directed to the enlarged pelvic veins. Small coils or a sclerosing agent are used to block the abnormal veins, redirecting blood flow to healthy vessels.

The procedure typically takes about an hour, requires only local anesthesia and mild sedation, and most patients go home the same day. Recovery is usually 1-2 weeks, with many patients noticing symptom improvement within the first few weeks after treatment.

Studies show that PVE provides significant symptom relief in approximately 80% of patients, with long-lasting results.

Why Choose Preferred Fibroid for PCS Treatment?

Our interventional radiologists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating pelvic congestion syndrome. We understand that chronic pelvic pain can be frustrating — especially when previous doctors couldn't identify the cause. We take time to listen, evaluate thoroughly, and explain your options clearly.