Warning Signs You Have Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

If you’re experiencing perplexing pelvic pain, there’s a reasonable chance you have pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). While this condition is especially common in women, it can affect men, too. About 15% of people who menstruate meet the criteria for a PCS diagnosis.

Since pelvic pain can stem from a range of conditions, understanding the symptoms and seeking professional care when they arise are key to finding relief.

At his Midtown Manhattan practice, double board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist Dr. Yosef Golowa offers minimally invasive treatments for pelvic congestion syndrome.

If you suspect you may have PCS, read on to learn about warning signs to take seriously.

You’re dealing with chronic pelvic pain

You may have pelvic congestion syndrome if you experience pelvic pain that’s lingered on for 3-6 months or longer. While there are numerous causes of chronic pelvic pain, 30% of the many gynecology visits for the symptoms stem from PCS. The pain may range from dull, heavy aches to sharp jabs in your lower torso.

Your pelvic pain isn’t caused by menstruation

Pelvic congestion syndrome is common in people who menstruate, but its symptoms don’t flare up as a result of periods. If your pelvic pain carries on or recurs in between your periods as well, you might be dealing with PCS. At the same time, menstrual cramps may exacerbate your PCS pain.

You experience pain during or after intercourse

Lying down may help ease PCS pain, but if you’re getting intimate with a partner — as you do so — you could end up with more pelvic pain. Dyspareunia, or pain that occurs during or after penetrative sex, often goes hand in hand with pelvic congestion syndrome.

You have varicose veins around your pelvis

The bulging or twisting veins you can see through your skin known as varicose veins are another potential sign of pelvic congestion syndrome. In particular, PCS fuels varicose veins in your buttocks, thighs, vagina, or vulva. In some cases, the veins are painful.

You leak urine at inopportune times

Pelvic congestion syndrome can cause stress incontinence, which leads you to involuntarily release urine during movements that affect your bladder. Coughing, exercising, laughing, and sneezing can all trigger these symptoms. Men with PCS may experience urinary urgency, or sudden needs to urinate whether they’re near a restroom or not.

To learn more about PCS or find out if you’re a candidate for nonsurgical treatment, call our office or book an appointment with Dr. Golowa through our website today. These treatments provide safer alternatives to surgeries, such as hysterectomies, and bring a shorter recovery time.