Varicose veins of the pelvis, unlike a similar disorder in the lower extremities, are not always noticeable, but they are very harmful to health.It can lead to deterioration of blood flow in internal organs and disruption of their functioning.
The difference between varicose and healthy veins
The wall of a healthy vein is always in good condition - it allows blood flow to be maintained.
Although not as much as in veins, the walls narrow.This effect is enhanced by the contraction of smooth and skeletal muscles.
All the vessels located below the heart, that is, in the limbs, abdomen, pelvis, thorax, have valves in their walls.They are "pockets" formed by the vascular endothelium.
They are located in such a way that the blood flowing to the heart passes without obstacles.By its retrograde action, it fills the valves and closes the vein.
Blood always flows from the periphery to the heart, even against gravity.
Varicose veins undergo several changes in the valve apparatus.They reduce the tone of the wall and increase its permeability.This creates conditions for blood stagnation.
Some of the fluid bypasses and causes healthy veins to overflow.It also provokes tone disorders in them.
What is it and why is it dangerous?
Varicose veins can affect the peripheral veins in any part of the body.
Manifestations of pathology are most noticeable in the legs - this creates a significant aesthetic defect.However, the same phenomenon in the abdominal or pelvic organs is asymptomatic for a long time.
It is most dangerous for the female reproductive organs, less so for the bladder.Varicose veins of the rectum appear as hemorrhoids.
Varicose veins of the pelvic veins can have different causes.The disease leads to disruption of blood flow in the reproductive system and, as a result, to deterioration of its function.
A woman may notice changes in her menstrual cycle, pain and symptoms of hormonal disorders.Physical impact can result in blood vessel rupture and bleeding.
Reasons
It is multifactorial, that is, it is caused by a combination of a number of reasons.Among them:
- hereditary tendency;
- lack of physical activity;
- pregnancy complications;
- overweight;
- diseases of the urinary system and intestines;
- heavy physical labor.
The presence of one or even several unfavorable factors does not mean that the pelvic veins are enlarged.This indicates a high risk of such a pathology.
Women with children are more vulnerable than men.
The first symptoms usually appear at the age of 40 or in late pregnancy.The actual onset of pathology occurs earlier.
Degrees
There are three stages of the development of varicose veins:
- Mild degree - damage to one or more peripheral vessels of the genitals.Often asymptomatic, it can be temporary, repeated examination is required.
- Moderate - dilation of the large vessels of the parametrium - the outer lining of the uterus or myometrium - the muscle lining.It causes menstrual disorders and health deterioration.
- Severe degree - varicose veins and swelling of most organs of the female reproductive system.It causes serious disorders in the sexual sphere, high risk of disease and infertility.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the lesion.In the initial stages, it often occurs without symptoms.
As the disease progresses, itching, heaviness and pain appear in the external genital area.
These feelings vary in intensity depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle.They may become stronger during bleeding and weaken a few days after.
A woman may notice that the menstrual cycle is more painful and heavy.Sexual intercourse becomes painful, problems arise in conception and pregnancy.
Diagnostic methods
There are several ways to identify the disease.
The first and simplest of these is a gynecological examination.It identifies dilated veins in the skin, vaginal wall and cervix.Its data can indirectly indicate the cause - endometriosis, cervical erosion.
The most reliable method is gynecological ultrasound.Its advantage is that it allows you to detect the enlargement of the parametrium, fallopian tubes and ovaries.The results of this study provide more complete information about the state of the reproductive system.
In controversial cases, MRI, vaginal smear, blood test for sex hormones and diagnostic curettage are prescribed.
Which specialist should I contact for help?
The treatment is carried out by a gynecologist together with a vascular surgeon.In case of hormonal disorders, an endocrinologist should be consulted.
Since the disease is multifactorial, if necessary, other specialists can join its treatment.
Therapy methods
Before starting treatment, you should undergo a complete examination of the reproductive system.Identify possible pathologies.As a rule, the disease occurs against the background of other disorders.
An integrated approach is used for higher efficiency.Several therapy methods are used at once, which makes it more successful.
Drug treatment
It includes taking drugs that increase the tone of the vascular wall - Hesperidin, Diosmin.
To reduce the permeability of the vascular wall tissue, the following are prescribed:
- ascorbic acid;
- nicotinic acid;
- Routine.
Their use is allowed during pregnancy and after childbirth, even if the first symptoms appear later.
In addition, the doctor may recommend blood thinners - acetylsalicylic acid, vitamin K.
Their use during pregnancy is allowed only after consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist, if the benefit outweighs the possible harm.
Compression and sclerosis therapy
Compression tights and belts are worn to prevent complications of varicose veins.It creates pressure on the veins of the external genital organs, preventing them from overflowing.
In this regard, normal or near-normal venous flow throughout the pelvis is maintained.The degree of compression is determined by the doctor.You can wear such underwear during pregnancy.
Sclerotherapy is a procedure in which a special drug is injected into the veins, which stimulates a short-term inflammatory response.And then - the complete blockage of the damaged vessel and its narrowing.The blood flow in it stops completely.
This procedure can be done in the 2-3 trimester of pregnancy, if there are no contraindications.
Operation
Surgical treatment is the removal of the affected area.It can be done in several ways depending on the patient's condition.
In some cases, a partial resection of the ovary is necessary.And sometimes the complete removal of the uterus of the fallopian tubes.
In women of reproductive age, doctors try to protect the reproductive organs.
Therapeutic exercise
These are exercises that help improve blood flow and reduce venous congestion.The most effective:
- "birch";
- back bend in the knee-elbow position;
- exercises to raise the legs and sacral region.
They encourage blood flow due to their weight.
Folk treatment
Traditional treatment methods are less effective than hospital therapy, but can significantly improve the patient's well-being.
Baths with medicinal plants are used for this purpose - willow, oak branches, stem grass and chamomile.
They have a calming effect, reduce tension and stimulate blood flow.
Recommendations for prevention
It is impossible to completely exclude all factors affecting venous flow.But you can reduce their impact.For example, make time for exercise and maintain a normal weight.
Prevention of disease during pregnancy is of particular importance.Be sure to monitor both nutrition and physical activity during this period.And for a sufficient amount of vitamins.