Pelvic Congestion Embolization
for Chronic Pelvic Pain
Minimally Invasive Relief for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS)
Joint & Vascular Institute
What is Pelvic Congestion Embolization?
At Joint & Vascular Institute, we offer pelvic congestion embolization (PCE), a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure for women suffering from chronic pelvic pain caused by pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS).
PCS occurs when weakened or refluxing veins in the pelvis cause blood to pool. This leads to dull, aching pain that is often worse after long periods of standing, during menstruation, or after intercourse. For women who have struggled without answers, pelvic congestion embolization provides a safe and effective path to lasting relief without major surgery or extended downtime.
Get Help for Pelvic Pain Symptoms
How Pelvic Congestion Embolization Works
Pelvic congestion syndrome is caused by pelvic venous insufficiency, which happens when valves in the gonadal or internal iliac veins no longer function properly. This allows blood to flow backward and create varicose veins around the uterus and ovaries. During PCE, our interventional radiologists:
- Use advanced imaging to locate refluxing pelvic veins contributing to pain
- Insert a tiny catheter through a vein in the groin or neck
- Deliver safe embolic materials such as coils or plugs to seal off the abnormal veins
- Redirect blood flow into healthy veins, relieving pressure and reducing pain
This precise and targeted approach alleviates symptoms while preserving normal circulation.
Benefits of Pelvic Congestion Embolization
Pelvic Congestion Embolization offers several advantages over traditional treatments:
Minimally
Invasive
No large incisions or hospital stay. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.
Targeted
Pain Relief
Treats the exact veins causing pelvic pain and varicose changes.
Quick
Recovery
Most patients return to light activity within days.
Long-Lasting
Results
Studies show durable relief from chronic pelvic pain with improved daily function.
Non-Surgical
Option
A proven alternative to hysterectomy or invasive surgery for pelvic pain.
Joint & Vascular Institute
Am I a Candidate for Pelvic Congestion Embolization?
You may be a good candidate for PCE if you:
- Have chronic pelvic pain lasting more than six months
- Experience symptoms that worsen with standing, during menstruation, or after intercourse
- Have not found relief with medications, hormone therapy, or other treatments
- Want a non-surgical solution with minimal downtime
Schedule a consultation with our team to find out if this advanced treatment is right for you.
Proven Clinical Success with Pelvic Congestion Embolization
Extensive clinical research confirms the effectiveness of embolization for PCS. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies involving 1,426 women ages 31 to 49 found that all patients reported significant pain reduction after embolization.
- On average, pain scores dropped by more than 5 points on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
- Related symptoms also improved:
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) improved in 79.8% of women
- Painful urination (dysuria) improved in 77.3%
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) improved in 46.7%
- Clinical success rates reach 70% to 85% with durable symptom relief reported up to five years after treatment
- Clinical success rates reach 70% to 85% with durable symptom relief reported up to five years after treatment
- Complications are rare, with the most common being minor and temporary
These results highlight PCE as a safe, effective, and lasting solution for women with PCS, helping restore quality of life when other treatments have failed.
Academic Level Care.
Just Next Door.
From diagnosis through recovery, our providers bring advanced expertise in vascular and interventional care. We deliver personalized treatment plans that prioritize your comfort and long-term wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pelvic congestion embolization, and how does it work?
PCE is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks abnormal pelvic veins causing pain and varicose changes. Using a catheter, our specialists deliver embolic materials that seal off diseased veins while preserving normal blood flow.
What results can I expect?
Most women experience meaningful relief within weeks, with continued improvement over months. Studies show 70% to 85% of patients achieve lasting pain reduction, with benefits sustained for years.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery is usually quick. Patients often return to work and daily activities within a few days, with gradual symptom relief over time.
Are there risks or side effects?
Risks are low. The most common complications include minor soreness or bruising at the catheter site. Rarely, coil migration or vein irritation may occur, but these events are uncommon.
Personalized, Expert Care at Joint & Vascular Institute
We understand how deeply chronic pelvic pain affects daily life. Our team is here to provide compassionate, cutting-edge care, helping you reclaim your comfort, mobility, and peace of mind.
Take the Next Step
Schedule a Consultation Today
If pelvic pain is interfering with your life, pelvic congestion embolization may be the solution you have been searching for. Contact our Libertyville office today to schedule your consultation.
Regain strength. Restore mobility. Live pain-free.