Pelvic Congestion
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a painful condition caused by enlarged or varicose veins in the pelvis. It can result in chronic pain, which becomes more pronounced when standing up, during/after intercourse, or just before your period. Other symptoms include cramping, back pain, abdominal bloating, vaginal discharge, depression, mood swings and fatigue.
It is thought that pelvic congestion is the result of pregnancy, and/or possibly estrogen, that can weaken the walls of the veins and cause them to become enlarged. Approximately 15% of all women have varicose veins in their abdomen.
Ovarian vein embolization (OVE) is performed by an interventional radiologist using image guidance and a catheter to seal off the faulty veins to prevent them from becoming enlarged and cause pain. Like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), ovarian vein embolization is a safe and effective outpatient procedure that is an effective alternative to open surgery.
OVE is effective at providing relief for about 80% of those who undergo the procedure.1
- Society of Interventional Radiology
