Comprehensive review of pelvic congestion syndrome: causes, symptoms, treatment options

The purpose of this publication is to review the currently available and most up-to-date information regarding the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome.

The diagnosis of pelvic congestion syndrome is difficult to make; however, it should remain on the differential for chronic pelvic pain. The most recent available research seems to favour endovascular treatment with interventional radiology over surgical management, with high success rate and low occurrence of complications.

High-level evidence on the diagnosis and management of pelvic congestion syndrome is lacking. Only a small number of randomized controlled trials exist. More high-quality research is needed, particularly involving practicing obstetrician and gynecologists as the majority of these patients, and the clinical outcomes of any interventions implemented for pelvic congestion syndrome are ultimately managed by OB/GYN providers.