Pelvic Pain Disease

Pelvic pain can be classified as either acute or chronic, depending on the underlying conditions causing it. As a common problem among women, pelvic pain can fluctuate in intensity and nature, and its primary cause is unclear. Depending on the type of pain you experience, some sources of pain can result from varicose veins in the legs, leading to pelvic varicose veins or pelvic congestion syndrome. However, if you experience acute or chronic pelvic pain, our Vein Center of North Texas physicians can use various treatments to help ease your pelvic pain and relieve your symptoms.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome and Chronic Pelvic Pain

Causes of chronic pelvic pain vary depending on underlying conditions, but one condition most often associated is pelvic varicose veins or pelvic congestion syndrome. Pelvic congestion syndrome is associated with ovarian and pelvic vein dilatation, where the varicose veins in the pelvis, thighs, and buttocks cause insufficient blood flow to the pelvic area. Because of the weakened veins, blood flows backward and pools into the veins, causing them to bulge and pressure on the pelvic area.

The causes of pelvic congestion syndrome are currently unclear, but one of the possible causes of this condition is hormonal abnormalities or dysfunction. One theory notes that hormone changes and weight gain cause anatomical changes within the pelvic structure, leading to increased pressure along the ovarian veins, predisposing women to pelvic congestion syndrome. However, the reflux that occurs with insufficient blood pressure can lead to the development of pelvic varicose veins and chronic pelvic pain.

Symptoms and Treatments For Pelvic Pain Disease

Common signs of pelvic pain resulting from pelvic congestion syndrome include pelvic discomfort, pain after intercourse, irritated bladder, varicose veins along the buttocks, thighs, and vulva, and pelvic bloating beyond menstruation and menopause periods. This condition typically affects women between the ages of 30 to 50 years old and can increase with a history of pregnancy, hormonal dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries.

To effectively treat this underlying condition, our healthcare providers can provide a tailored experience according to your symptoms. These treatments may vary based on your overall health, medical history, and other factors. Some treatment options that may be provided include:

  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Drugs: These hormone medications help block ovarian function and may relieve chronic pelvic pain resulting from pelvic congestion syndrome.
  • Progestin Hormone Drugs: Another alternative for hormone medication therapy, these types of medications may potentially relieve pain.
  • Vein Procedures: Minimally invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy and embolization can be used to remove the damaged veins and prevent symptoms.
  • Ovarian/Uterus Surgery: In severe cases of pelvic varicose veins and other factors, surgery to remove the uterus and ovaries may be recommended.

For more specific treatment options for your chronic pelvic pain, contacting our practice for more information is the best recommendation to help you find answers. By calling Vein Center of North Texas, our physicians can provide diagnostic and treatment tools that can help relieve your pelvic pain and help provide long-term treatment plans to keep you healthy for life.