Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that causes pelvic or abdominal pain in women.
It tends to occur in younger women who have not undergonemenopauseor have previously given birth.
This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome.
FatCamera / Getty Images
FatCamera / Getty Images
What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
The primary symptom of PCS is pain.
Thepaincan occur on one side of the pelvis or both sides.
It is generally a dull, achy pain but can vary from person to person.
The pain can feel worse:
Pregnancy can also cause pain to worsen.
The symptoms tend to get better after lying down.
Less commonly, the pain can occur suddenly in the lower back, hips, legs, or abdomen.
What Causes Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
The cause of PCS is pelvicvenous insufficiency.
The slow-flowing blood pools in the veins, causing pain.
What causes the veins to work improperly is not entirely understood.
They are:
How Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will ask health history questions and perform a physical exam.
Making a firm PCS diagnosis will require special imaging:
How Is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treated?
There are many treatment options for pelvic congestion syndrome.
Pelvic congestion syndrome can be misdiagnosed or undiagnosed.
But when a person receives the proper diagnosis, the condition is treatable.
Can You Die From Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
PCS is not considered a life-threatening condition.
Summary
Pelvic congestion syndrome is a condition in which veins in the pelvis do not function correctly.
The blood moves slowly through the veins, causing blood to pool.
This results in pelvic pain.
This condition is typically diagnosed with ultrasound.
Treatment varies and can include medication or venous embolization.
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