Pelvic Venous Disease: Identifying This Commonly Overlooked Cause of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women

Abstract

The causes of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women can be multifactorial and significantly affect quality of life. Finding the cause(s) for CPP often takes a multidisciplinary approach. One commonly overlooked cause of CPP is pelvic venous disease (PVD). The causal relationship between PVD and CPP has been well-documented in the literature, but with limited assessment or treatment guidelines to advise health care providers, there continues to be a limited understanding of PVD. This article aims to ensure nurse practitioners are well equipped to recognize women presenting with symptoms suggestive of PVD and expedite referral when needed for further evaluation.