Knowledge | Vulvar Varicosities: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments
Vulvar varicosities are enlarged, swollen, or twisted veins in the vulvar area, commonly on the labia majora and labia minora. They are most common after a first pregnancy, and many women do not notice them during pregnancy and remain undiagnosed. They usually resolve within 6 to 8 weeks after delivery. Some patients may develop clot-related complications such as venous thromboembolism (VTE), including serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis.
Causes
During pregnancy, increased blood volume and slower blood flow in the lower body can cause vulvar varicosities. Blood pools more easily in vulvar veins, causing swelling. Contributing factors include:
Increased pelvic blood flow: More blood is directed to the pelvis during pregnancy, swelling vulvar veins.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy hormones affect vessel walls, allowing them to stretch and enlarge.
Enlarging uterus: The growing uterus compresses the pelvis and makes venous return to the heart more difficult.
Recognizing symptoms
Vulvar varicosities can be difficult to recognize, especially during pregnancy. Signs include:
Swollen, twisted veins in the vulvar area
Pain or pressure while standing or walking
Vulvar heaviness, itching, or pain during intercourse
Nighttime calf cramps and frequent urination
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis is usually made by physical examination. The doctor may ask the patient to stand so swelling can be observed, and ultrasound is also useful. If a complication such as pelvic congestion syndrome is suspected, further imaging such as CT or MRI may be recommended.
Treatment differs during and outside pregnancy. Many women manage symptoms by changing position frequently, applying ice to the vulva, and wearing supportive garments. If the veins do not resolve within several months after delivery, medical options include:
Sclerotherapy: A sclerosant is injected to close the vessel until it disappears.
Phlebectomy: Affected veins are removed through small skin incisions.
Catheter embolization: Medication or material is placed in the vein to block blood flow.
Ligation: Small skin incisions are used to tie off affected vein segments.
Prevention
Vulvar varicosities are difficult to prevent during pregnancy, but risk may be reduced through regular exercise, a healthy diet, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, wearing loose clothing, and maintaining a healthy weight.
When to seek care
Seek prompt medical care for redness over a vein, a blood clot, or pain. A doctor can help manage symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.
Knowledge | Vulvar Varicosities: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments
Knowledge | Vulvar Varicosities: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments
Vulvar varicosities are enlarged, swollen, or twisted veins in the vulvar area, commonly on the labia majora and labia minora. They are most common after a first pregnancy, and many women do not notice them during pregnancy and remain undiagnosed. They usually resolve within 6 to 8 weeks after delivery. Some patients may develop clot-related complications such as venous thromboembolism (VTE), including serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis.
Causes
During pregnancy, increased blood volume and slower blood flow in the lower body can cause vulvar varicosities. Blood pools more easily in vulvar veins, causing swelling. Contributing factors include:
Increased pelvic blood flow: More blood is directed to the pelvis during pregnancy, swelling vulvar veins.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy hormones affect vessel walls, allowing them to stretch and enlarge.
Enlarging uterus: The growing uterus compresses the pelvis and makes venous return to the heart more difficult.
Recognizing symptoms
Vulvar varicosities can be difficult to recognize, especially during pregnancy. Signs include:
Swollen, twisted veins in the vulvar area
Pain or pressure while standing or walking
Vulvar heaviness, itching, or pain during intercourse
Nighttime calf cramps and frequent urination
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis is usually made by physical examination. The doctor may ask the patient to stand so swelling can be observed, and ultrasound is also useful. If a complication such as pelvic congestion syndrome is suspected, further imaging such as CT or MRI may be recommended.
Treatment differs during and outside pregnancy. Many women manage symptoms by changing position frequently, applying ice to the vulva, and wearing supportive garments. If the veins do not resolve within several months after delivery, medical options include:
Sclerotherapy: A sclerosant is injected to close the vessel until it disappears.
Phlebectomy: Affected veins are removed through small skin incisions.
Catheter embolization: Medication or material is placed in the vein to block blood flow.
Ligation: Small skin incisions are used to tie off affected vein segments.
Prevention
Vulvar varicosities are difficult to prevent during pregnancy, but risk may be reduced through regular exercise, a healthy diet, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, wearing loose clothing, and maintaining a healthy weight.
When to seek care
Seek prompt medical care for redness over a vein, a blood clot, or pain. A doctor can help manage symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.
Story source:
Collected online