Pelvic Venous Disorder (PeVD) or Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) can affect almost 20-30% of all women. Too often dismissed by family, friends and even doctors as just period pain to live with, this condition has only recently been understood to be caused by varicose veins in and around the uterus, the ovaries, the vagina, and other tissues in the pelvis. While usually seen in women between the ages of 18 and 50 years who have had two or more children, it is also seen in some post-menopausal women and in those who have had multiple cycles of IVF.
Painful periods. Heavy menstrual bleeding. A constant gnawing ache in the pelvis. Legs that swell as the period approaches. The lower back hurts, making it uncomfortable to sit or stand for long periods of time. An urge to pee at odd times. An irritable bowel. Pain-killing pills in the day and hot water bottles at night. Sex is painful and it hurts even more after the intimacy. These are symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) or now better termed as Pelvic Venous Disorder (PeVD). The inability to enjoy exercise and leisure, guilt from time off work or away from children and strained personal relationships are the emotional baggage many of these women carry.
The symptoms of Pelvic Venous Disorder (PeVD) or Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) are due to the pooling of low oxygen containing blood in the deeper veins of the pelvis. But they can also occur in some common gynaecological conditions like endometriosis and fibroids. This often leads to years of confusion with missed diagnoses and failed treatments. We see many patients who have had repeated doctor visits, Ultrasound examinations without the veins being assessed, CT and MRI scans that fail to show the underlying problem and even surgery without improvement.
The Venus Clinic is a one-of-a-kind clinic in the region for the management of this distressing condition. It brings together a unique team with expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, physio and psychological support needed to provide comprehensive care for patients with Pelvic Congestion Syndrome or Pelvic Venous Disorder, as it must now be called.