Vulvar (Genital) Varicose Veins Treatment
Vulvar varicose veins refer to the condition of the veins in the vulva region becoming enlarged and swollen. Although it is usually a condition that occurs during pregnancy, it can also occur for various reasons outside of pregnancy. Vulvar varicose veins occur as a result of abnormal enlargement of the veins in the vulva region. This condition usually occurs as a symptom of a condition called venous insufficiency. Vulvar varicose veins occur due to the enlargement of the veins in the vulva region and can be visibly noticeable in some cases. However, they often do not cause painful or uncomfortable symptoms. However, if symptoms do occur, these symptoms may include pain, burning sensation, itching, a feeling of heaviness, pressure, and discomfort during intercourse. The main cause of vulvar varicose veins is usually associated with increased hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy. During pregnancy, as the uterus grows, it can press on the veins in the pelvic region and affect venous circulation. As a result, these veins can expand and cause vulvar varicose veins. However, vulvar varicose veins can also occur outside of pregnancy. Abdominal abnormal vascular variations are sometimes the sole cause. Excessive weight, prolonged standing, excessive physical activity, hormonal changes, previous history of varicose veins, pelvic obstruction, and certain medical conditions are all predisposing factors. Vulvar varicose veins are generally a condition that does not require treatment and can be managed with conservative treatments aimed at relieving symptoms. However, if symptoms become severe or if vulvar varicose veins cause aesthetic concerns or reduce quality of life, sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical intervention should be considered among the treatment options.
Symptoms and Causes of Vulvar Varicose Veins
Vulvar varicose veins can occur as a result of the enlargement and swelling of the veins in the vulva. This can cause many symptoms.
Symptoms;
• Pain: Vulvar varicose veins can cause pain in the vulva. This pain usually increases when standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Itching: Vulvar varicose veins can cause itching in the vulva. Itching is usually caused by the dilation of the veins and the accumulation of blood.
• Swelling: Vulvar varicose veins can cause swelling in the vulva. This swelling can cause discomfort in the vulva and affect daily activities.
Causes of vulvar varicose veins;
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy is the most common cause of vulvar varicose veins. Increased blood volume and uterine growth during pregnancy can cause the vulvar veins to expand and cause varicose veins.
• Genetic Predisposition: People with a family history of vulvar varicose veins have a higher risk of developing this condition. Genetic factors may play a role in the formation of vulvar varicose veins.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can be effective in the formation of vulvar varicose veins. In particular, an increase in the level of the estrogen hormone can cause the vulvar veins to expand.
• Pelvic venous anomalies: Variations and insufficiencies in the pelvic veins can be the sole cause and should be checked with at least CT angiography. Symptoms and causes are taken into consideration by our specialist doctors in the diagnosis and treatment of vulvar varicose veins. A correct diagnosis and treatment can provide relief and improve your quality of life. Diagnosis of Vulvar Varicose Veins Diagnosis of vulvar varicose veins should be made by a specialist doctor. Our doctors take the necessary steps to make an accurate diagnosis based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings.
Physical Examination: Our doctors begin with a physical examination of the vulvar area. Varicose veins may appear swollen and dilated.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a common imaging method used to diagnose vulvar varicose veins. Ultrasound is used to visually examine the condition and blood flow of varicose veins.
Doppler Ultrasound: Doppler ultrasound is an imaging method used to evaluate blood flow. The severity of vulvar varicose veins and changes in blood flow can be determined with Doppler ultrasound. Our specialist doctors use these methods to ensure an accurate diagnosis of vulvar varicose veins. An accurate diagnosis helps determine appropriate treatment options.
CT Angiography or Digital Angiography: It has gained more importance in recent years, especially in the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic venous insufficiency, venous anomalies and variations.
Vulvar (Genital) Varicose Veins Treatment
Vulvar varicose veins refer to the condition of the veins in the vulva region becoming enlarged and swollen. This condition can be caused by various reasons such as pregnancy, hormonal changes, excessive weight, standing for long periods of time, hereditary factors and pelvic congestion. Vulvar varicose veins can often be uncomfortable and can sometimes cause aesthetic concerns. In order to diagnose vulvar varicose veins, an examination should first be performed by a gynecologist, radiologist or vascular surgeon. It is a condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach in particular. Diagnosis is usually made with physical examination, color doppler ultrasound and CT angiography. In mild cases, conservative treatments may be recommended to help relieve symptoms. These include wearing compression garments, elevating the legs, regular exercise, weight control and hot or cold applications. These treatments can help reduce symptoms and make varicose veins less noticeable. If venous insufficiency and varicose veins are treated correctly, there will be a significant regression. Sclerotherapy is a commonly used complementary procedure to treat vulvar varicose veins. During this procedure, a sclerosing agent is injected into the affected vein. This agent irritates the vein walls and causes the vein to close. As a result, the varicose vein disappears and blood is redirected. Sclerotherapy is usually an effective and minimally invasive treatment. Laser therapy (transdermal laser) can be used to reduce the appearance of varicose veins on the skin's surface. Laser light is used to target the varicose veins and close them. Laser therapy can often be a visually effective option, but in some cases, multiple sessions may be required. Rarely, vulvar varicose veins that are very large or cause severe symptoms may require surgical treatment. Surgical options include venectomy (removal of the vein), ligation (tying off the vein), and phlebectomy (removal of the varicose vein). Surgery is usually preferred in more complicated cases. Hormonal imbalances may play a role in the development of vulvar varicose veins. Therefore, hormonal treatments may help manage symptoms in some cases. However, the risks and benefits of hormonal treatments should be carefully considered. Treatment for vulvar varicose veins can vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the size of the varicose veins, and the patient's overall health. It is important to consult a specialist about treatment options.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle for the Treatment of Vulvar Varicose Veins
There are some methods and lifestyle changes that can be applied at home for the treatment of vulvar varicose veins. Almost the same methods that should be done for leg varicose veins are also useful here. These methods and changes can help relieve symptoms and support your overall health. Regular exercise can increase blood circulation and relieve the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming or cycling may be recommended in particular. Elevating your legs during the day can increase blood flow and reduce the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins. You can support your legs with a pillow or cushion while sitting or lying down. Tight clothing can increase the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins. Therefore, it is important to prefer comfortable and loose clothing. Compression stockings can be used to relieve the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins. These stockings increase blood flow by applying gentle pressure to the legs. Lifestyle changes can relieve the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins and help with treatment. However, it is important to determine the most appropriate methods by consulting your doctor and following their recommendations.
When Should You See a Doctor for Vulvar Varicose Veins?
The symptoms of vulvar varicose veins can usually be mild or moderate and can be relieved with home remedies. However, in some cases, it may be important to see a specialist. The situations in which you should see a specialist regarding vulvar varicose veins are as follows: The symptoms of vulvar varicose veins can worsen over time and affect your daily activities. If your symptoms are severe, it is important to see a specialist. If new symptoms occur in addition to vulvar varicose veins, they should be evaluated by a specialist. You should see a specialist immediately, especially if there are symptoms such as fever, skin rash, or signs of infection. Vulvar varicose veins can affect self-confidence and cause psychological distress. If your symptoms are affecting you psychologically, you can get help by seeing a specialist. Our specialist doctors can evaluate the symptoms of vulvar varicose veins and recommend appropriate treatment options. Early diagnosis and treatment can help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.