The Effect of a Subsequent Pregnancy After Ovarian Vein Embolization in Patients with Infertility Caused by Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Abstract

To report the effect of pregnancy on patients who have undergone pelvic vein embolization with pelvic congestion syndrome, which was suspected to be the only cause of infertility. Data from a total of 12 women (mean age: 36.5 ± 4.3 years, range: 29-45 years) were collected between May 2013 and June 2016. Transvenous embolization with fibre platinum coils combined with anhydrous alcohol was performed in unilateral or bilateral ovarian veins after the diagnosis of venous varices confirmed by transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic venography. The follow-up time was 2-3 years. The primary outcomes of this study were the technical procedure and clinical effect, especially the pregnancy rate and complications. The successful embolization rate was 100% with no significant complications during or after embolization. Ovarian vein embolization was performed unilaterally (7/12, 58.3%) or bilaterally (5/12, 41.7%). A total of 66.7% (8/12) of women had a subsequent pregnancy and complete pelvic pain relief, and 33.3% (4/12) of patients had partial pain relief. The numeric pain perception scores improved from 6.7 ± 1.1 to 2.7 ± 1.2 (p < 0.001). Ovarian varices may be associated with infertility in some patients, and embolization of ovarian varices is a safe and effective method for those trying to become pregnant.