Health, Women's Health

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Rachel Studebaker
William B. Harris, DO, FACS, RPVI
Last Updated October 3, 2022
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This vascular condition can cause chronic pelvic pain in women.

Understanding Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that affects women and occurs when dysfunctional veins cause blood to pool within the pelvis, creating pressure and causing pelvic pain. Studies estimate that PCS accounts for up to 30% of visits for chronic pelvic pain.

Risk Factors and Symptoms

PCS most often affects premenopausal women and has several risk factors, including multiple pregnancies, polycystic ovary syndrome, and a family history of PCS. Symptoms include pelvic pain and pressure that persists for more than six months, feelings of heaviness in the pelvis, and atypical discomfort during menstrual cycles. Pain may worsen when sitting or standing and is relieved when lying down.

Treatment and Outlook

If you suspect you may have PCS, visit your doctor to rule out conditions that cause similar symptoms. An ultrasound scan can assess and check the blood flow in the vessels to aid in diagnosis. Compression hose or shorts can be worn to help alleviate pain and pressure, and if symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend an endovascular procedure.

Ovarian vein embolization is a common endovascular procedure that addresses PCS symptoms caused by an abnormal ovarian vein producing a backward flow of blood, known as reflux. It involves placing a coil to block the vein and prevent pressure and pain. This procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to resume normal activities in only a few days.

An Expert Weighs In

“Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a chronic condition seen frequently in women of childbearing age. It is characterized by dull, aching pelvic pain that worsens after standing, during menstruation, or after sexual activity, as well as bloating and varicose veins in the buttocks or thighs. Malfunctioning veins in the pelvic region cause impaired blood flow resulting in pain. Diagnosis is commonly made with noninvasive abdominal ultrasound, while most treatment options include minimally invasive outpatient procedures that provide lasting and effective symptom relief. Unexplained pelvic pain is not normal. If you have these symptoms, talk to your primary physician or gynecologist or see a vascular provider for evaluation.”

William B. Harris, DO, FACS, RPVI Vascular Surgeon, Vascular Institute of Chattanooga

Meet the Author

Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude

Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.