PELVIC CONGESTION

WHAT IS PELVIC CONGESTION?

Pelvic congestion occurs when blood pools in the veins (varicosities) of the uterus and ovaries. It can cause pain after long periods of standing, deep penetration with intercourse, and pain after intercourse. With this condition, pain seems to improve by lying down and resting.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

A radiologic procedure called a Tilt Table Venogram is used to help diagnose pelvic vein varicosities. The Tilt Table Venogram is a procedure where the radiologist introduces a catheter through the femoral vein (major vein of the leg) and guides it to the pelvic veins under visual guidance by radiologic imaging to identify dilated pelvic veins.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

A radiologic procedure is recommended to block the veins of the pelvis if they are dilated on the Tilt Table Venogram. If surgery is scheduled, these veins can be identified and transected.