What You Need to Know About Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Living with pelvic aching, heaviness, and pain can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally. If you have pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), it’s important to know that you don’t have to suffer. Understanding PCS is the first step in finding relief.

At the Vascular Institute of Virginia, we provide compassionate support and guide you toward treatments like ovarian vein embolization to help you feel better as quickly as possible. This blog tells you what you should know about PCS and explains how we can provide relief.

What Causes Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?

Pelvic congestion syndrome occurs when blood pools in pelvic veins, causing them to grow larger. These enlarged veins (varicose veins) may develop for a few different reasons.

For many women, ovarian varicose veins develop during pregnancy, when vein size grows by 50%. If the veins never return to normal after giving birth, PCS can develop.

Experts also believe that other factors, particularly estrogen fluctuations, may play a role in PCS. Women who have gone through menopause (a time when estrogen levels drop sharply) rarely experience PCS, which seems to reinforce this theory.

In addition, unhealthy vein valves can potentially lead to PCS.

Treatment for PCS: Ovarian Vein Embolization

Ovarian vein embolization is a minimally invasive procedure to treat PCS by closing off the problematic veins. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia with light sedation, so you’ll remain comfortable throughout.

During the procedure, your doctor creates a tiny incision and inserts a slim catheter into it to access the ovarian vein. They use ultrasound guidance to position the catheter perfectly, then inject sclerosants (chemicals that irritate the walls of the unhealthy vein) and metal coils (blockers that disrupt the vein’s blood supply).

This reduces the pressure in the veins and, in turn, eases symptoms like dull aches, pain, and pelvic heaviness.

Ovarian vein embolization is nonsurgical and offers a much faster recovery than surgery. You can expect mild pelvic cramping, which typically subsides within a few days. Full recovery usually takes about a month, but you’ll start feeling relief from your symptoms shortly after the procedure. 

Ovarian Vein Embolization in Woodbridge, VA

At Vascular Institute of Virginia, our compassionate experts are here to help you conquer the symptoms of PCS using state-of-the art techniques. Call us at 703-763-5224 to schedule a consultation at our Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, or Fairfax locations.