Is your groin pain caused by varicose veins? Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for this type of groin pain.
Causes: Varicocele and Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
What does a varicocele and pelvic congestion syndrome have in common? Both conditions are caused by varicose veins in the groin and pelvis. You read that right, varicose veins can occur in the pelvis, even though it is typically found on the legs.
The main difference between both syndromes is that men develop varicoceles, which occur in the scrotum, while women develop pelvic congestion syndrome, causing symptoms around the uterus and bladder in the pelvis.
To book an appointment with Dr. Mackay or ask a question, call (727) 261-0044, click to text us or fill out an appointment request form.
Symptoms of Groin Pain Causes by Varicose Veins
Both varicoceles and pelvic congestion syndrome can have pain as a main symptom, but there are other symptoms that are specific to the particular condition. In some cases, these conditions may be incidentally diagnosed and the patient may not suffer from any symptoms.
- Varicoceles may also cause symptoms of heaviness within the scrotum, usually on the left side, but may occur on either side of the scrotum. These symptoms are exacerbated by standing, intense exercise, and high temperatures. Fertility problems have also been known to be caused by varicoceles, but this is less common.
- Pelvic congestion syndrome also causes a variety of symptoms such as worsened pelvic pain before and during a period, urinary urgency, and visible varicose veins in the groin or vagina. Just like with varicoceles, symptoms may occur on either side, but is usually on the left.
To book an appointment with Dr. Mackay or ask a question, call 727-261-0044, click to text us or fill out an appointment request form.
Causes of Groin Pain
Women that suffer from pelvic congestion syndrome are those women that are of age for pregnancy and birth and that have had more than one birth. There has not been any specific correlation with age, or medical history that leads to increased risk for men to develop varicoceles.
Treatment for Vein Related Groin Pain
Treatment is aimed at patients that suffer from symptoms from varicoceles or pelvic congestion syndrome. In the case of varicoceles, surgery may be performed, either open or minimally invasive, to repair the veins in the scrotum, but perhaps the least invasive and more frequent treatment is through embolization.
Treatment is similar in pelvic congestion syndrome, including hysterectomy, hormonal medications to reduce pain, or embolization. Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that damages the vein, leading to scar formation preventing blood flow through the vein.
What to do if you have Groin Pain from Varicose Veins
Varicose veins that develop in the pelvis, even though they aren’t always unsightly, can cause pain symptoms that are chronic and may require medical attention. If you have symptoms of either a varicocele or pelvic congestion syndrome, speak with your doctor about treatments that may be right for you.
You can also contact the office of Dr. Edward Mackay, a board certified vascular surgeon providing varicose vein treatments to patients in the Tampa area.
