A little-known problem, but one that affects many women, is uterine varicose veins, also known as pelvic varicose veins1. These are dilated veins that appear in the area of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, popularly known as varicocele, which can also occur in men affecting the veins in the testicles2.
Varicose veins in the uterus usually occur in women over 30 years of age, normally after the second pregnancy, and present symptoms similar to other gynecological problems. That is why the correct diagnosis may take longer.

The common symptoms of varicocele or uterine varicose veins are:

  • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse;
  • Severe abdominal pain, similar to cramps;
  • Urinary incontinence.

An increase in blood flow and a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region are also signs of uterine varicose veins, but the body does not always warn that something is wrong. There are cases in which it appears without any symptoms or with symptoms very similar to those of endometriosis.

How to diagnose and what causes uterine varicose veins?

Studies show that uterine varicose veins are caused by the dilation of ovarian veins, which is why they occur most often in women who have been pregnant more than once. The diagnosis and referral for tests will be made by a gynecologist.
Usually, the tests ordered to confirm the condition are abdominal CT scan, transvaginal ultrasound, phlebography, and angio-MRI. There are cases of women who have no symptoms at all and discover the condition accidentally during routine exams or even in abdominal surgery.

How to treat uterine varicose veins?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for uterine varicose veins. However, there are several treatments that will help manage the symptoms. Treatment can begin with oral medication, which works directly to reduce the dilation of the veins, or surgery can be performed, which is very similar to surgery for varicose veins in the legs, where a procedure is done to remove the varicose veins and strengthen the vein walls.

In more severe cases, a procedure called embolization may be recommended by the gynecologist. This procedure removes the entire varicose block from the uterine region. It is considered a minor surgery with local anesthesia and leaves no scars3. The patient stays in the hospital only on the day of the procedure, is discharged the next day, and can resume normal activities 3 or 4 days after discharge.
Contrary to what some women believe, uterine varicose veins do not prevent pregnancy. However, treatment should be carried out beforehand. In the case of embolization, the whole uterus is preserved, and fertility is not affected.

See also: Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy  How They Appear and How to Relieve Symptoms