LET'S TALK ABOUT
Pelvic Congestion
Did you know that approximately one third of women in the U.S. will suffer from chronic pelvic pain at some point in their life? According to Cleveland Clinic, roughly 40 percent of gynecological visits involve chronic pelvic pain complaints from patients. It is estimated that up to 30 percent are related to pelvic vein disease.
Have you noticed any of the following symptoms?
Chronic Pain In Pelvis and Abdomen
Pain During Intercourse
Tenderness In Abdomen
Bloating or Pelvic Fullness
Varicose Veins Around Vagina, Scrotum, or Anus
Frequent Urination
What is Pelvic Vein Disease?
Pelvic vein disease, otherwise referred to as pelvic congestion disease, is a fairly common condition that can result in disability. The pelvic pain experienced is chronic, meaning that it lasts for 6 months or more. Unfortunately, pelvic vein disease can sometimes be difficult to diagnose, as there are a number of issues that could be causing pelvic pain.
Pelvic vein disease occurs when varicose veins become enlarged in the pelvis region. Healthy veins contain valves that help keep blood pumping toward the heart. In the case of pelvic congestion disease, the valves within the veins become weakened and blood begins to pool, leading to swelling and enlargement of the vein. While pelvic vein disease can affect both men and women, it is most common for women who have birthed more than one child. During pregnancy, pelvic veins increase in size to accommodate blood flow. Following pregnancy, some veins may not return to the pre-pregnancy size, which leads to weakened veins and a backflow of blood. This pooling of blood within the pelvis leads to varicose veins, heaviness and pain in the area.
If pain becomes worse when sitting or standing, but is relieved when laying down, pelvic congestion disease should be considered. Pain may also occur when urinating, and during or following sexual activity. Other symptoms include an achy or dull sensation in the lower back or pelvis, which may be worse during the menstrual cycle, varicose veins on the back of or inner thighs, as well as vaginal varicose veins, irritable bladder or irritable bowel.
ARE YOU TIRED OF DEALING WITH PELVIC CONGESTION?
We know how much Pelvic Congestion can affect you daily life. Things that you enjoyed before are now painful or limited due to the pain that you feel around your pelvis and abdomen. Our team understands the journey you have been through to find answers. At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, we specialize in using the most advanced, least invasive, treatment options for Pelvic Congestion. We are here to listen to your specific needs and help you get your life back.
How To Treat Pelvic Vein Disease?
The first step in determining if you have pelvic vein disease is to get a medical evaluation. There are several diagnostic tests that can be used to confirm pelvic congestion disease. A pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound may be used to identify dilated pelvic veins. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) may additionally be required to provide the physician with a visual on the abnormal vein structure within the pelvis. The most precise diagnostic imagining available for pelvic vein disease is called pelvic venography. This is a minimally invasive test that is performed by a vascular specialist. A small catheter is placed inside a vein via the groin area. Dye is injected into the vein to obtain images of the weakened pelvic veins.
Once a medical professional has determined that you have pelvic vein disease, ovarian vein embolization may be recommended. In this treatment, a catheter is used within the pelvic veins to disperse a chemical that causes inflammation. Tiny metal coils are then placed in order to prevent blood flow into the ovarian vein. This method blocks the reverse flow in the abnormal vein, which in turn reduces the pressure on the enlarged vein. This treatment is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Patients can resume normal activities within a few days. Roughly 75% of ovarian vein embolization patients experience improvement in their symptoms.
THE ANSWER YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR...
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE SAVI?
MULTI-SPECIALTY PRACTICE – Our practice consists of both vascular interventionalists and vascular surgeons to allow us to completely treat our patients when it comes to vascular care.
OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER – Our facility is equipped with an outpatient surgery center that allows us to perform minimally invasive procedures in office.
ACR ACCREDITED ULTRASOUND FACILITY – We are proud to say that our office is an accredited ultrasound facility through the American College of Radiology
OUR #SAVISTAFF – From the time you walk in the door to the time you leave, our team is dedicated to making your experience here the absolute best.
Let Us Help!
At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, we realize that pelvic vein disease can great affect your life. We are a multi-specialty practice that offers the latest, least invasive options for diagnosing and treating pelvic congestion disease. Our outpatient surgery center allows for minimally invasive procedures to be performed directly onsite by our experienced physicians.
If you’re tired of dealing with chronic pelvic pain, contact us today to schedule an appointment to address your concerns with one of our vascular specialists!