Pelvic congestion syndrome is a medical condition that affects about one percent of women and involves swelling and pain in the pelvis and lower abdomen caused by veins being compressed and enlarged. It's often mistaken for menstrual cramps or irritable bowel syndrome, but it can be more severe than these conditions. PCS causes chronic arousal in some women due to blood pooling. This means that during sex, women with PCS may feel increased pleasure due to their bodies naturally releasing hormones like oxytocin, which induce relaxation and intimacy. However, this can also lead to uncomfortable sensations such as burning or throbbing in the genital area. For some women, PCS can make orgasms more intense but difficult to reach because of the discomfort they experience. In addition, many women with PCS find that their partners notice changes in their body shape and size during sexual encounters. These changes include heaviness in the breasts, weight gain in the legs, and swelling around the vulva and vagina. Women who have tried non-invasive treatments for PCS such as hormone therapy, massage therapy, or lifestyle modifications report varying degrees of success. Surgical intervention, such as embolization or surgery, is typically the last resort option for those who suffer from PCS. During these procedures, doctors inject a substance into the affected veins to shrink them and relieve pressure on surrounding tissue.
The exact cause of PCS isn't clear, although experts believe it may be linked to obesity, pregnancy, childbirth, or certain types of cancer treatment. Additionally, there is evidence that pelvic congestion syndrome runs in families. Genetics play an important role in how our bodies respond to medical conditions, including PCS. Some women are born with naturally dilated blood vessels that compress nerves and arteries leading to the clitoris, labia, and vaginal walls. The resulting lack of blood flow can cause increased engorgement during sex, making orgasms more intense but also uncomfortable. This condition doesn't go away on its own; if left untreated, it can lead to further complications like varicose veins, pelvic pain, infertility, and urinary tract problems. Fortunately, there are several options available for treating PCS depending on its severity and symptoms.