What You Should Know About Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS)
Specialized treatment for chronic pelvic pain.
Pain in the lower abdominal (pelvic) region is a common disorder experienced by people of all ages. However, the causes of pelvic pain can vary significantly and might interfere with your quality of life if left unaddressed. One cause of pelvic pain is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome.
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) primarily affects women of childbearing age. While the symptoms are often mistakenly attributed to bone or muscle issues, it is considered a vein disease.
Vein diseases affect the blood vessels, which play a vital role in the functioning of our body. These conditions can contribute to serious health complications if left unaddressed, making it essential to seek the expertise of highly trained vascular specialists.
At Georgia Endovascular, we are dedicated to helping patients relieve painful symptoms caused by vein diseases. Our advanced, minimally invasive solutions can help resolve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
We'll examine pelvic congestion syndrome, its causes, complications, and available treatments.
What causes Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
The exact cause of PCS has yet to be fully understood, but multiple factors are thought to influence its development. These factors may include hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or structural abnormalities in the veins of the pelvis.
Experiencing multiple pregnancies is thought to raise the risk of PCS.
While PCS is often experienced by women who have borne more than one child, pregnancy is not believed to be the root cause. Men can also develop PCS.
PCS occurs when chronic congestion or blood pools in the pelvis's veins. This abnormality is commonly caused by the development of varicose veins in the pelvic area, leading to pain and discomfort.
What symptoms are associated with Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
The most prevalent symptom of PCS is chronic pelvic discomfort, mainly experienced as a dull, aching pain that intensifies after prolonged standing or sitting. Additional symptoms might include:
- Heavy feeling or pressure in the pelvic region.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Severe menstrual discomfort and cramps.
PCS can also cause the following:
- Chronic pelvic pain that lasts for more than six months
- Pain that is relieved by lying down
- Atypical vaginal secretions or discharge
- Varicose veins in the pelvic region
- Increased pain during or after exercise
- Pain in the lower back or buttocks
- Increased urinary frequency or urgency
- Painful bowel movements
- Swelling or bloating in the lower abdomen
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Mood swings or irritability
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
PCS symptoms mimic other conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroid cysts. However, several diagnostic tests can be used to establish the presence of PCS. These tests may include pelvic ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or venography, which involves injecting a contrast dye into the veins and taking X-ray images.
Who has a high risk for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
The following issues can raise the risk for PCS:
- Multiple pregnancies
- Hormonal changes
- Family history of pelvic congestion syndrome
- Uterine fibroids
- History of blood clots
- Obesity
- Chronic constipation
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Pelvic surgery or trauma
How is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome treated?
While various treatment options are available for PCS, pelvic vein embolization has emerged as one of the most influential and beneficial treatments for this condition.
Pelvic vein embolization is a minimally invasive approach that can help alleviate the symptoms of PCS. The technique works by blocking the abnormal veins in the pelvis.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that embolization significantly relieves pelvic pain in most patients with PCS.
However, pursuing the best treatment for your needs is essential. The team at Georgia Endovascular offers caring, individualized support for patients experiencing debilitating symptoms from various vascular disorders.
Superior Care for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
PCS doesn't have to impact your lifestyle and goals negatively.
The Georgia Endovascular specialists provide highly effective, advanced treatment options for diverse patients, helping them overcome painful vein disorder symptoms with minimal downtime.
For additional information about PCS or to schedule an evaluation, please contact us in Atlanta today at 678-915-2000.
