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Pelvic Varicose Veins Treatment
in Laurel, MD

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What Are Pelvic Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen blood vessels that do not function efficiently. While the most frequently appear on the legs, they may also develop in the pelvic region, in the lower abdomen or around the genitals, thighs, or buttocks. Patients with pelvic varicose veins, or pelvic congestion syndrome, may be asymptomatic or may also experience troubling symptoms.

Women suffer more frequently with pelvic varicose veins, but men are also susceptible to the condition. Pelvic varicose veins may be invisible, particularly when the patient is lying down.

What Causes Varicose Veins in the Pelvis?

Varicose veins form when vein walls weaken, known as venous insufficiency, and when valves within the vein deteriorate and allow blood to flow backward, known as venous reflux. Risk factors for pelvic varicose veins include:

  • Family history of the disorder
  • Repeated pregnancies
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle

What are the Symptoms of Pelvic Varicose Veins?

Research has shown that approximately one-third of women suffer from pelvic pain during their lifetime. Pain caused by pelvic congestion syndrome is often experienced as dull and aching. Such pain tends to be worse at the end of the day and is exacerbated by long periods of standing.

Pain may be worse just before a menstrual period, during, or after sexual intercourse. Women with this disorder may also experience one or more of the following symptoms:

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  • Enlarged uterus
  • Thicker endometrium
  • Ovarian changes
  • Stress incontinence
  • Back pain
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Severe menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue

How are Pelvic Varicose Veins Diagnosed?

Pelvic varicose veins are not the only cause of pelvic pain. These causes, such as ovarian cancer, must be ruled out before a definitive diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome can be made. Since varicose veins in the pelvic region are not always visible even on sophisticated imaging devices, a Doppler ultrasound may be used. The most effective diagnostic test for pelvic varicose veins is usually a CT venogram using contrast dye. The dye is used so that the affected veins can be better visualized on X-ray.

How Are Pelvic Varicose Veins Treated?

If venography makes it clear that varicose veins exist in the pelvic region, they are removed through a process called embolization. Embolization, which is a minimally invasive procedure, may be performed in one of two ways. One method is performed with a metal coil that is inserted into the diseased vein, typically the femoral vein or the ovarian vein, causing a clot to form and blocking blood flow. In the other, a sclerosant, or a solution, which irritates the vein is used. In either case, the affected vein slowly collapses and other, healthier veins take over its circulatory role. Embolization is performed while the patient is under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation.

Embolization is necessary for the treatment of varicose veins in the pelvic region since these veins are deep within the body and cannot be easily reached surgically. Laser treatment is not used in the pelvic region since the heat generated by the laser would put adjacent organs at risk.

What is the Recovery from Pelvic Varicose Veins Treatment?

A large majority of patients experience significant pain reduction after the embolization procedure. This procedure may be performed in an outpatient setting. The patient will be prescribed pain medication for the first few days. After that time, over-the-counter medications should be all that is needed. In rare instances, the patient may need to have a second embolization procedure.

Are There Risks Associated With Varicose Veins Treatment In The Pelvis?

Although widely considered a very safe and effective form of treatment, ovarian vein embolization does carry some risks. These risks, while rare, may include:

  • Blood vessel damage
  • Bruising
  • Infection
  • Bleeding at the treatment site
  • Allergic reaction to the contrast dyes

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Schedule A Consultation For Pelvic Varicose Veins Treatment in Laurel, MD

If you’re interested in learning more about pelvic varicose veins please contact us for a consultation at (855) 803-6482 or fill out our contact us form below. We will discuss your needs and concerns, and determine your best course of action.

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Schedule a Visit with a Vascular Specialist

At Minimally Invasive Vascular Center in Laurel MD, your care and treatment is our top priority. If you any questions or concerns and would like meet with a consultant, please call us at (855) 803-6482 or contact us with your information. We look forward to providing you with the best solutions for your vascular needs.

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Our Location

9201 Cherry Lane
Laurel, MD 20708

Office Hours

Monday – Thursday: 9am – 5pm
Friday: 9am – 1pm
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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