Pelvic varicose veins are an enlargement of the veins of the pelvis. The condition manifests with a variety of symptoms, from pain to a feeling of pressure, and requires careful diagnosis, as it can resemble other diseases.
What pelvic varicose veins are
Veins have one-way valves that help blood move toward the heart. If the valves are weakened or damaged, blood can stagnate and pool in the veins, causing them to swell and enlarge — this is how varicose veins form. Varicose veins usually occur in the legs, but they can also form in other parts of the body, including the pelvis. Hemorrhoids are also a type of varicose vein.
Why pelvic veins enlarge: causes and risk factors
The main cause of varicose veins is venous valve insufficiency, which causes blood to stagnate and the veins to enlarge. Risk factors include age, female sex, obesity, lack of physical activity, and a family history of varicose veins. Pregnancy also increases the likelihood of developing varicose veins. The causes of pelvic pain in women vary: they may include painful menstruation, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and other conditions. Pelvic pain can also occur with constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted infections. Some causes, such as appendicitis or peritonitis, are serious and require urgent surgical care.
How pelvic pain manifests
Pelvic pain varies: it may be dull or heavy, like a feeling of pressure, or sharp, stabbing, or burning, arising suddenly. It may worsen during sexual intercourse or urination. The cause of such pain is determined by a doctor, as the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
What signs and symptoms occur with pelvic varicose veins
Sometimes a feeling of a "knot" or heaviness appears. Pelvic pain may be sudden and severe or last 6 months or longer. To make a diagnosis, it is necessary to describe all symptoms to the doctor in detail, along with their nature and the circumstances in which they occur.
How pelvic varicose veins are diagnosed
The doctor may suggest an examination; varicose veins are often diagnosed by examination, and sometimes additional tests are needed, such as venography or venous ultrasound. If the cause of the pain is unclear, the doctor refers the patient for examinations or to a specialist.
Why the condition is dangerous and when to see a doctor
Pelvic pain requires evaluation: some of its causes are serious and require urgent care. Do not self-diagnose. You should see a doctor if pelvic pain does not go away, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms: abdominal bloating, weight loss, or changes in bowel movements.
- Pelvic pain that does not go away or worsens
- A feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen
- Abdominal bloating, unexplained weight loss, prolonged bowel disturbances
On its own, it is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103/112 — if pelvic pain is acute, increasing, accompanied by loss of consciousness, dizziness, difficulty breathing, severe vaginal bleeding, or confusion.
This material is for reference purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
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This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer