PCS - For Women Only

What Is It & How Did It Get There?

Chronic pelvic pain is not uncommon for women.  As a matter of fact, more than 30% of women have experienced and complained about lower abdominal pain at some point in their lives.  Pelvic Congestion Syndrome is sometimes the cause of this chronic pain and it is believed that the condition is related to varicose veins in the lower abdomen and groin areas.  A constant dull ache and pain in the region, accompanied by pressure and heaviness mark this syndrome. The women most prone to developing PCS are between the ages of 20 and 45 and have had multiple pregnancies.

While there is no exact cause, there are possible explanations and contributors.  Physiologically, it is thought that the weight gained and excess fluid accumulated during pregnancy causes engorgement of the veins which, over time become distended.  The valves which control the flow of blood from the heart to the limbs are destroyed allowing the condition to progress.  Estrogens can weaken the walls of the vein.  The increase of estrogens during pregnancy may have a part to play in the common development of varicose veins.  This could be why men don't have PCS.  There is also the consideration that changes in the anatomy of pelvic veins may make them more susceptible to forming varicose veins.

PCS Signs and Symptoms

The most common complaint associated with pelvic congestion syndrome is the dull pain which is not cyclical. However, there are times when the pain is definitely worse than others.  A woman may experience increased discomfort just before her menstrual cycle.  If she's been on her feet a lot she may feel increased pain as well as end-of-the-day discomfort.  During or after intercourse seems to be another point of distress as is the later stages of pregnancy.  Along with these complaints, there are some other symptoms which are non-specific and vary in their intensity, appearing to be more common at the end of the day or after having been on the feet for long periods of time.  There are times when the pain can interfere with the normal flow of life sending women on a quest for relief.

Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion syndrome may include swelling of the vulva and/or the vagina and varicose veins in the buttocks, upper legs and vulva.  Abnormal menstrual bleeding, pelvic tenderness, painful menstrual periods and backache are some other symptoms.  A woman may experience a feeling of malaise or general lethargy and depression.

What To Do

Many of these signs and symptoms are present in other disorders such as endometriosis, fibroid tumors and a prolapsed uterus.  Because PCS is difficult to diagnose, all other conditions have to be ruled out first.  There are several tests which can be run to determine whether PCS is the issue. After having done the diagnostic testing the doctor can prescribe the best course of treatment.  The best way to handle PCS is to see the doctor, become informed and strive for a solution which will work best for you.