How is it diagnosed?

A diagnosis requires a detailed clinical assessment, taking into account the typical symptoms. Sometimes varicose veins or pelvic tenderness are found on physical examination.

Ultrasound examination performed by appropriately skilled sonographers may be very useful. An Ultrasound is effective at showing blood flow through veins and is non-invasive. Sometimes the pelvic veins are difficult to see through the abdomen, and transvaginal ultrasound may be required.

Generally, further non-invasive examinations with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) are required to confirm the diagnosis, define the origin of the veins, and help plan the appropriate treatment.

Pelvic Venography

Although the above tests may be used initially, venography is still used to diagnose and assess the anatomy before treatment is considered. This is generally performed at the same time as treatment. It is a more invasive test but is a simple and safe diagnostic

day procedure.

This test is performed by injecting dye or contrast that can be seen on a X-ray machine in hospital through a small tube or catheter. The catheter is generally inserted in the groin (femoral vein).