Pelvic Congestion Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Chronic pelvic pain is a common occurrence among people assigned female at birth, affecting an estimated 15% of people of childbearing age in the United States. One of the causes of pelvic pain is pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). PCS occurs when varicose veins develop around the ovaries. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that most often appear on the legs because standing and walking cause the blood to engorge the leg veins. Most of the time, varicose veins are completely benign and painless but when they appear on the ovaries, they can cause pain and discomfort. The exact cause is still unknown but pregnancy and estrogen can both play key roles in making the veins structurally unsound. Any type of chronic pain can be disruptive to your life so it is important to learn about the cause of your pain and what your treatment options are. This article will cover the symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome, how it affects one’s sex life, and the treatment options that exist. 

What are the symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome?

Dull and achy pelvic pain is the primary symptom of PCS, but it can manifest as a sharp pain as well. The pain can be exacerbated after standing or sitting for a long time, before and during menstruation or sexual activity. Additional symptoms include varicose veins in other places like the pelvis, buttocks, and vulva, an irritable bowel, stress incontinence, and pain with urination.   

How does pelvic congestion syndrome affect one’s sex life?

As mentioned above, pelvic congestion syndrome and the associated pain tends to be exacerbated by sexual intercourse. This not only poses physical obstacles to having sex, especially penetrative sex, but chronic pain can also cause a low libido. That does not mean that you can never achieve a fulfilling sex life though. In addition to the PCS treatment options below, there are ways to have great sex without penetration. You can engage in alternative forms of intimacy, like mutual masturbation, give and/or receive a sensual massage, or cuddle skin-to-skin. There are also ways to try to boost your libido, if you so desire. None of these options provide a permanent solution, but there are treatment options that can make it easier to live with PCS. 

   What are the treatment options for pelvic congestion syndrome?

Diagnosing pelvic congestion syndrome is not easy because the symptoms are easily conflated with other conditions and there is no test that will outright prove that PCS is the culprit. For this reason, doctors will typically run tests to rule out similar conditions, as well as use imaging like ultrasounds. Ultrasounds provide a view of the soft tissue; if more detailed imaging is required, a doctor may opt for an MRI or CT scan. The goal of diagnosis and treatment is to reduce or relieve pelvic pain, but there is unfortunately no known cure for PCS. The treatment you and your doctor pursue will depend on factors such as the severity of your symptoms and your medical history.

Treatment options for PCS may include: 

• Gonadotropin hormone drugs. Gonadotropins are hormones that regulate ovarian function; they are essential for growth, development, and reproduction functions. These drugs can block ovarian function and therefore relieve some pain.  

• Progestin hormone drugs. Similarly to gonadotropins, progestin drugs are hormonal drugs that serve to relieve pain by assisting the regulatory function of your reproductive system. 

• Sclerotherapy or embolization. A sclerotherapy is a typical treatment option for any varicose veins, including pelvic veins, such as is the case for PCS. It involves a needle that injects a solution which causes the damaged vein to scar and eventually fade as blood is rerouted to healthier veins. A similar concept but different execution is gonadal vein embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that involves a small incision for a tube that is used to dispatch a sclerosant that blocks the vein, therefore guiding the blood to healthier vessels, similar to how sclerotherapy works. 

• Oophorectomy or Hysterectomy (to remove your uterus and ovaries). An oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) and hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) are reserved for the most severe cases of PCS after milder treatments have failed. However, these procedures have been shown to be a very effective treatment for PCS pain in treatment-resistant cases.

The Bottom Line

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a taxing condition that has the potential to significantly impact your quality of life, particularly your sex life. However, with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, you can find relief. If you suspect you have PCS, you should consult with a healthcare professional to explore your options. Additionally, if you need extra support for your mental health and/or your libido and sex life due to the chronic pain, consider reaching out to a therapist.   

I Think I Have ADHD, Now What?

If you suspect that you may have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults, and it can significantly impact various aspects of life, including work, school, relationships, and daily functioning. If you suspect you have ADHD, take proactive steps to seek assessment, diagnosis, and appropriate interventions. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate next steps and offer resources for those who experience ADHD symptoms.

Education and Self Assessment

The first step is to educate yourself about ADHD and assess your symptoms. You can start by taking a reputable self-assessment tool, such as the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), to understand your symptoms and their severity. Remember that self-assessment tools are not diagnostic but they may provide valuable information to be further discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

Seek Professional Evaluation

If you suspect you have ADHD, it's crucial to seek a professional evaluation from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or neurologist who is experienced and qualified in diagnosing ADHD. A comprehensive evaluation typically includes a thorough clinical interview, a medical and psychiatric history review, and an assessment of ADHD symptoms. It may also entail other evaluations, such as cognitive testing or rating scales.

Educate Yourself about Treatment Options

ADHD is a treatable condition, and various evidence-based treatment options are available, including medication, therapy, and behavioral interventions. Educating yourself about these options is essential, and working with your healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and preferences. It's also important to understand the potential benefits, risks, and side effects of ADHD medications and to carefully follow the prescribed treatment plan.

Locate an ADHD Specialist

If you receive a diagnosis of ADHD, it may be important to you to work with qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in ADHD to develop and execute a treatment plan. ADHD specialists may include psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, or other mental health professionals with expertise in ADHD treatment. They can provide tailored interventions, such as medication management, therapy, or behavioral strategies to address your unique needs and challenges associated with ADHD. Sometimes, you may find professionals that provide both diagnostic and treatment services.

Develop Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Modifications

Developing coping strategies and lifestyle modifications can help manage ADHD symptoms. Coping strategies may include time management techniques, organization skills, creating a structured routine, setting realistic goals, and managing stress. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep can also support overall well-being and help manage ADHD symptoms.

Seek Support and Connect with Others

ADHD can be challenging to manage on your own, and seeking support from others is important. This may include talking to trusted friends or family members, joining support groups or online communities for individuals with ADHD, or working with a therapist to address the social-emotional and psychological challenges associated with ADHD. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide validation, understanding, and valuable tips for managing ADHD symptoms.

Learn to Advocate for Yourself

Advocacy and self-empowerment are paramount to effectively managing ADHD. Educate yourself about your rights, accommodations, and available educational, work, or community resources. Develop self-advocacy skills to communicate your needs effectively and assertively, and seek resources and support services to help you navigate challenges and access appropriate accommodations or services. It's important to be proactive in advocating for yourself and seeking the support you need to thrive with ADHD.

Takeaways

If you suspect that you have ADHD, it's essential to take proactive steps to seek evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate interventions. Educating yourself and developing a way to manage your ADHD in a way that resonates with you can bring lasting impacts on you and your interpersonal relationships. Remember, you are not alone; resources and support are available to help you with ADHD.

Disclosing an STI: Tips on How to Tell Partners

Beginning a new romantic relationship can be an exciting and nerve-racking experience. As you get to know someone on a deeper level, it's natural to consider when and how to disclose personal information, including your sexual health status. If you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI), the question of when to disclose can feel daunting. This blog will discuss some considerations for navigating disclosure and finding the right time to share your STI status with a partner. Here are some things to consider before disclosing:

Understand the Importance of Disclosure  

The first step in navigating disclosure is understanding the importance of being honest and transparent with your partner about your STI status. Some people may wonder, do I legally need to disclose my STI? In some jurisdictions, disclosing your STI status is an ethical responsibility and a legal requirement. It allows your partner to make informed decisions about their sexual health, such as choosing a partner, understanding potential health risks, and taking necessary precautions, like using condoms or other barrier methods and keeping an eye out for sores, redness, or other STI symptoms. Additionally, open and honest communication about sexual health fosters trust and intimacy in a relationship.

Educate Yourself about Your STI

Educating yourself about your STI before disclosing your status is important. Understand how it's transmitted, the potential symptoms, treatment options, and ways to reduce the risk of transmission. This will enable you to have an informed conversation with your potential partner and answer any questions they may have.

Consider the Timing

When it comes to disclosure, timing is crucial. There's no one-size-fits-all answer as to when is the "right" time to disclose, as it depends on the dynamics of each relationship. Oftentimes, it can be helpful to have the conversation outside of a sexually charged environment and when both partners appear to be in an amiable mood. It's generally recommended to have a chat before any sexual activity occurs. This allows you and your partner to make informed decisions about the level of risk you're comfortable with. In contrast, having the conversation right before sex or after sex may produce mistrust between partners.

Create a Safe Space for Conversation  

You may be asking yourself if it is okay to disclose via text. Texting may not be the best option unless you are questioning your safety due to revealing it. Creating a safe conversation space is important when you decide to tell your STI status. Choose a private and neutral setting where you and your partner can feel comfortable and relaxed. Be open, non-judgmental, and willing to listen to their concerns or questions. Remember that the conversation should be two-way, allowing both parties to express their feelings and concerns.

Be Honest and Transparent

Honesty and transparency are the values at the heart of this concept we are exploring. Provide accurate information about your STI, including how you acquired it, if you're currently on treatment, and what steps you take to manage it. Avoid any temptation to downplay or minimize your STI status, as this can erode trust in the relationship.

For example, your conversation may sound like, “I want to have an open and honest conversation with you because I value our relationship and believe in transparency. Recently, I was diagnosed with [specific STI]. I want you to know I am taking proactive steps to manage my health, including following the recommended treatment plan and practicing safe sex. I understand the importance of disclosing this information to you so that you can make informed decisions about your health. I am here to answer any questions you may have and respect whatever decision you make moving forward. Our health and well-being are both important, and I believe that open communication is crucial in maintaining trust and understanding in our relationship.”

Anticipate Reactions and Prepare for Possible Outcomes

You may wonder if disclosing your STI will be a dealbreaker for your relationship. It's important to be prepared for various reactions from your potential partner when disclosing your STI status. They may have questions, concerns, or emotional responses. They may need time to process the information, seek further information, or discuss it with their healthcare provider. Be patient and understanding, allowing them to process their feelings.

Respect Your Partner's Decision

After disclosing your STI status, you must respect your partner's decision, whatever it may be. They may choose to continue the relationship with appropriate precautions, or they may decide that they're not comfortable moving forward sexually. Respecting their boundaries and choices without pressuring or guilt-tripping them is important. Remember that everyone has the right to decide about their sexual health.

Take Necessary Precautions

You may wonder if it is safe to continue dating someone who has disclosed an STI. If you and your partner are sexually active, consider taking precautions to prevent the transmission of STIs. This may include using condoms or other barrier methods, getting regular STI screenings, and following recommended treatment plans, such as taking an antiviral, if applicable. It's important to communicate openly with your partner about sexual health and continuously assess and mitigate the risk of transmission.

Prioritize Self-Care

Living with an STI can be emotionally challenging, and disclosure can bring up a lot of emotions. It's essential to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. This may include talking to a therapist, joining support groups, or confiding in trusted friends or family members. Taking care of your emotional well-being can help you navigate disclosure and build healthy relationships.

Remember That Your STI Does Not Define You 

So is having an STI a big deal? It's important to remember that your STI status does not define your worth and value. Having an STI does not make you any less deserving of love, respect, and fulfilling relationships. It's just one aspect of your life. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion as you navigate disclosure and relationships.

Takeaway

Disclosing your STI status to a sexual partner can be a challenging but necessary step in building healthy relationships. With open communication, mutual respect, and understanding, building meaningful and fulfilling relationships is possible while managing your sexual health. Remember that every situation is unique, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified therapist for personalized guidance and support in navigating disclosure and managing your sexual health.