Pain Experience and Quality of Life for Women Living With Pelvic Venous Disorders: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Pelvic venous disorders (PeVD) are complex chronic pelvic pain conditions with underlying venous pathology. Historically, PeVD is portrayed as a dull, achy pain commonly in multiparous, premenopausal women between the ages of 18 and 40 years. However, misconceptions and preconceived notions delay timely diagnosis and treatment for women diagnosed with PeVD. This scoping review was undertaken to examine the existing research literature on the pain experience and quality of life in women living with PeVD. Twenty-nine articles reviewed discussing pharmacological and surgical procedures, diagnostic tools for assessing PeVD, pain and pelvic symptoms with measurement scales, and quality of life. While most studies reviewed the effects of pharmacological or procedural interventions on PeVD pain management, differences were noted in PeVD in women. Further research is needed to understand women’s experiences with PeVD and impact on their quality of life.