Pelvic vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot occurs that obstructs the blood flow in one of your pelvic veins. Blood clots in the pelvic veins can be very serious because they not only have the potential to cause localized problems; they may also break loose and travel to the lungs.
Pelvic vein thrombosis may include the following:
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- Deep pelvic vein thrombosis – Deep pelvic vein thrombosis takes place when a blood clot develops in one of the deep veins in the pelvis, which may result in pelvic pain.
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- Ovarian vein thrombosis – Common in patients who have just had a baby, ovarian vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot is present in one of the ovarian veins. However, it more commonly occurs in the right ovarian vein. Symptoms usually include pelvic pain and pain in the lower abdomen, although sometimes a mass may be felt in the affected area, too.
- Septic pelvic thrombophlebitis – This rare condition occurs when an infected blood clot begins to cause inflammation within the pelvic vein. It’s more common in women who have a C-section instead of a natural birth. While most women recover fully, without prompt treatment, it may be fatal. Although this condition is most common after birth, it can also occur after pelvic surgery, miscarriage, or gynecological diseases. Symptoms include pelvic pain, back pain, fever, vomiting, nausea, chills, and at times, a ropelike mass that can be felt in the abdomen.
Why Do Pelvic Varicose Veins Happen During Pregnancy?
Pelvic varicose veins are also quite common during pregnancy, and they occur for a variety of reasons. First, as the uterus grows, it begins putting pressure on the inferior vena cava, which is the large vein that carries the blood back to your heart from the lower extremities. Blood volume also increases during pregnancy by up to 20%, which puts a more significant load on the vascular system.
During pregnancy, progesterone spikes occur, and there are spikes in hormones that relax your pelvic ligaments and the smooth muscle cells that are inside your veins. This makes the upward journey of your blood a lot harder during pregnancy. All of these factors combine. Veins dilate, which results in backpressure against the valves, which results in even more vein dilation.
While you’re pregnant, the body also starts to make more clotting proteins. This helps to ensure that blood clots form fast when you deliver your baby to prevent excessive bleeding. While these natural changes help protect you from delivery complications, they can also increase the risk of developing a blood clot, which can occur in one of the veins throughout the pelvis.
Does insurance cover pelvic varicose vein treatment?
Whether your insurance will cover pelvic varicose vein treatment depends on many different factors. If the condition is resulting in uncomfortable symptoms, results in a blood clot, or causes other related medical problems, your insurance may cover this treatment. Of course, coverage varies from insurance to insurance and each unique situation.
Many different cutting-edge treatments are available for pelvic varicose veins. Learn more about treating varicose veins and the options available to you today. Considering treatment? Meet our vein physicians in Portland, Oregon and book your appointment for a consultation.