That's quite common. It often resolves after pregnancy; if it is really bothersome you can order a V2 supporter (google this). Essentially the baby is causing your venous return to be partially blocked so you have high pressure in your vulvar veins so they are bulging. After pregnancy if everything doesn't totally resolve, more can be done with safe and effective treatments.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This is not unusual. If these are painful we usually recommend a V-Brace (Fembrace.com) and even a compression pantyhose underneath. The Vbrace is adjustable to provide the pressure you need to keep comfortable. In most cases these shrink down after delivery and when hormones return to normal. If not you should be evaluated.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Vulvar varicosities are sometimes seen in pregnancy around the 5th month of gestation. These varicosities will typically disappear in the first month after pregnancy. They are managed symptomatically during pregnancy. Pruritus is treated with zinc oxide paste and bathing in foamy solutions without soap. If the varicosities persist after first post partum month, sclerotherapy is the recommended treatment.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
When you are pregnant there is a large increase in blood volume- to circulate. This unfortunately causes an increase of the pressure that these veins have to work to get their job done. This can cause vulvar varicosities that happen in a majority of pregnancies as a result. Go and speak with your vascular specialist about treatment plans that are safe to practice while pregnant. In the meantime these conservative methods may work in the meantime:
1. Get a support garment. Look for one specifically designed for vulvar varicosities. Some designs also provide support for the lower abdomen and lower back.
2. Change position. If you stand for long periods of time, take frequent breaks to sit.
3. Go for a swim. The water helps lift the baby and improve the blood flow from your pelvis.
4. Elevate your hips slightly when lying down. This can help promote circulation. Placing a folded towel beneath your hips might do the trick.
5. Apply cold compresses to your vulva. This might ease your discomfort.
The good news is that vulvar varicosities likely won't affect your mode of delivery. These veins tend to have a low blood flow. As a result, even if bleeding occurred it could easily be controlled. More good news is that vulvar varicosities typically go away on their own within about six weeks of delivery.
Good luck to you.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Pelvic congestion during pregnancy may be attributed to increased abdominal pressure, hormonal changes, and the fetus. As a result these factors, varicosities improve after pregnancy.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Your varicose veins are arising from pelvis. This will improve after the delivery. My recommendation would be to wait at least 6 months after delivery to have them evaluated, as there will be improvement.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
During pregnancy their is a an increase of blood volume and vein dilate. The most affected veins in the pelvic region and the legs. It is not unusual to have just the pelvic or vulvar region affected.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
From the enlarging uterus pressing on the pelvic veins, you have increased pressure in your pelvic veins leading to varicosities of you vulvar and upper groin. This is very common during pregnancy. Support panty hose should help. When the pregnancy is over, you should see a vein specialist for a venous evaluation to evaluate for reflux.
Published on Jul 11, 2012