Pelvic Venous Compression

Pelvic Pain at Washington Township Medical Foundation

Pelvic venous compression may also be known as ovarian vein reflux, and is a condition experienced by anywhere from 13% to 40% of women. This form of chronic pelvic pain occurs in the lower abdomen. It is typically caused by dilatation of the pelvic veins and / or ovarian veins. These are like varicose veins that can be found in the pelvis.

Varicose veins occur when veins loose their elasticity and valve function stops, causing blood to pool and flow backwards, which make the veins bulge out and appear enlarged and gnarly. Occasionally, these veins can be quite painful. The same thing happens in the pelvic veins in a case of pelvic venous compression. Occasionally, this condition can result in apparent varicose veins that may occur the vagina, vulva, inner though, buttock, and / or legs.

Symptoms of Ovarian Vein Reflux

Some of the following symptoms may be signs of pelvic venous compression:

• Pelvic pain or dragging sensation
• Sensation of fullness in the legs
• Stress incontinence getting worse
• Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms getting worse
• Aching and pain in the pelvis and / or lower abdomen

This condition is not well understood. In most cases, it is younger women who have had two to three children who experience pelvic venous compression. The condition can begin during pregnancy. Other causes may include polycystic ovaries. If you experience pain or symptoms associated with this condition, see a vascular specialist at Washington Township Medical Foundation for help.