Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (also known as Pelvic Congestion Syndrome) occurs when varicose veins develop around the ovaries. It is a cause of chronic pelvic pain in approximately 30% of women, usually of childbearing age. It is more common in women who have given birth to at least one child, thought to be due to compression of the ovarian vein during pregnancy.

The most common treatment for PVCS is pelvic vein embolisation. This is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that can be done as a day case. It involves the insertion of a catheter (thin tube) through the vein in either your neck or groin. This is then guided to the ovarian or pelvic veins, using imaging techniques such as X-Rays and fluoroscopy, for treatment with either Endovenous Laser Ablation treatment (EVLA/T) or foam sclerotherapy.

Dr Mark Regi has been performing pelvic vein embolisation procedures for over a decade. He has a special interest in gynaecological procedures to treat chronic pelvic pain. These appointments usually take place at Spire Nottingham Hospital.