I have relentless bloating, could this be pelvic congestion syndrome?

I'm 55 years old. Five years ago I had a uterine ablation, and since then I haven't had a menstrual period. But, for many years, I've been dealing with relentless bloating. Could this be pelvic congestion syndrome?

Answers from doctors (7)


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Feb 04, 2015

Bloating is not usually a symptom of PCS. The most common cause of bloating in your age group would be gallstones. You should see a GI doctor for an evaluation.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Bloating is not usually a symptom of PCS. The most common cause of bloating in your age group would be gallstones. You should see a GI doctor for an evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Although the more common symptoms of pelvic congestion involve pelvic heaviness, aching, fullness, pain with intercourse and frequent urination, abdominal bloating can be associated with pelvic congestion syndrome. The diagnosis can be made with transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic venography.

Answered by Premier Vein and Vascular Center (View Profile)

Although the more common symptoms of pelvic congestion involve pelvic heaviness, aching, fullness, pain with intercourse and frequent urination, abdominal bloating can be associated with pelvic congestion syndrome. The diagnosis can be made with transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic venography.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Mercy Imaging Centers

Published on Jan 30, 2015

That's difficult to answer in this format. Bloating per se is not a typical symptom of PCS. The hallmark of PCS is that the symptoms (more pain than bloating) are minimal first thing in the morning and become worse during the day, espicially days where you are upright for many consecutive hours.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1561_1427402862.jpg
Answered by Mercy Imaging Centers

That's difficult to answer in this format. Bloating per se is not a typical symptom of PCS. The hallmark of PCS is that the symptoms (more pain than bloating) are minimal first thing in the morning and become worse during the day, espicially days where you are upright for many consecutive hours.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Restoration Vein Centers

Published on Jan 30, 2015

Yes, this could be related to pelvic congestion syndrome. You should consult with a vascular surgeon/specialist. After a physical evaluation and review of your history, it may be necessary to perform an ultrasound. All of these will help your physician determine whether you have PCS, and if so, which treatment options should be used to address it.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1520_1408044098.jpg
Answered by Restoration Vein Centers

Yes, this could be related to pelvic congestion syndrome. You should consult with a vascular surgeon/specialist. After a physical evaluation and review of your history, it may be necessary to perform an ultrasound. All of these will help your physician determine whether you have PCS, and if so, which treatment options should be used to address it.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Chicago Vascular & Interventional Institute

Published on Jan 30, 2015

Unlikely. Pelvic congestion syndrome usually presents with chronic pelvic pain. Bloating is likely due to a bowel disorder. An evaluation by a gastroenterologist may help.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/885_1500666000.jpg
Answered by Chicago Vascular & Interventional Institute

Unlikely. Pelvic congestion syndrome usually presents with chronic pelvic pain. Bloating is likely due to a bowel disorder. An evaluation by a gastroenterologist may help.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Jan 30, 2015

No. Usually, bloating is an intestinal problem. See your primary care physician about this issue. If after testing he or she diagnoses you with PCS, you will be referred to a vascular surgeon who will also examine you and inform you of your treatment options.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/554_1447800116.jpg
Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

No. Usually, bloating is an intestinal problem. See your primary care physician about this issue. If after testing he or she diagnoses you with PCS, you will be referred to a vascular surgeon who will also examine you and inform you of your treatment options.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Morrison Vein Institute

Published on Jan 30, 2015

If by "bloating" you mean a full feeling throughout your abdomen and is associated with belching and passing gas, it is unlikely that your symptoms are related to pelvic congestion syndrome. However, if you have feelings of discomfort, pain, or pressure in the pelvic area, possibly extending into your groin or legs which occurs intermittently and is worsened by sexual activity, pelvic congestion syndrome is more likely. In addition to reviewing your medical history and symptoms, your physician will want to perform one or more tests in order to make a clear diagnosis. If PCS is present, he or she will discuss a treatment plan appropriate for you.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/775_1500074947.jpg
Answered by Morrison Vein Institute

If by "bloating" you mean a full feeling throughout your abdomen and is associated with belching and passing gas, it is unlikely that your symptoms are related to pelvic congestion syndrome. However, if you have feelings of discomfort, pain, or pressure in the pelvic area, possibly extending into your groin or legs which occurs intermittently and is worsened by sexual activity, pelvic congestion syndrome is more likely. In addition to reviewing your medical history and symptoms, your physician will want to perform one or more tests in order to make a clear diagnosis. If PCS is present, he or she will discuss a treatment plan appropriate for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
Is Pelvic Congestion Symdrome life threatening if left untreated?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -3 answers
I am 60 years of age and have had prominent veins in the buttocks for some years but they are just beginning to trouble me. I've had a pelvic ultrasound scan which showed that I also have prominent veins in the uterus and small fibroids.
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -4 answers
Or are there other treatments?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -4 answers
I have low and mid back pain along with nausea. Can this be attributed to Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -4 answers
My radiologist put coils on the main left ovarian vein. He said the procedure was a success and that was the only varicose vein. I felt great after the procedure but then two weeks later the pain is worse. Why do you think that is?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -1 answer
I have had a ct scan that showed I had PCS several years ago and have a hysterectony 3 years ago is it possible to have PCS after the hysterectomy? I am now starting with dull aching pain in the lower abdomen and upper legs.
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
Can you still get pregnant with pelvic congestion syndrome?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -1 answer
Can PCS have symptoms like abdominal bloating or palpitations?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -5 answers
I was recently diagnosed with PCS. Its very painful, almost all the time. My doctor put me on birth control for treatment. Is this an effective treatment? And would the surgical procedure work for the veins in my legs if they just embolize the stomach veins?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -3 answers
What is your recommended treatment of PCS and do you recommend an OBGYN? Is weight gain typically associated with PCS?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
My MD said it was varicose vein, gyn said nothing can be done and dismissed it. I have pain, pressure, skin burning especially with standing or sitting too long. Should I see a vein specialist or "live with it" as gyn said. affects quality of life.
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
I was recently dx with PCS from an ultrasound and very obvious enlarged vessels. While I'm seeking additional testing, what should I avoid? Can I run, bend or lift normally? Is there a risk for blood clot?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -2 answers
I am really worried, can Pelvic Congestion Syndrome make women infertile? Are their infertility options for women with PCS?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -3 answers
I still want to have children, but now that I have been diagnosed with PCS I'm not sure if it's possible. Will this syndrome affect my ability to get pregnant? What about delivery a baby?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -3 answers
I have pelvic congestion syndrome. Is discharge one of the symptoms? What are the typical symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome apart from pain?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -1 answer
They sound kind of the same.
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -5 answers
The only thing that relieves it is rolling up a towel and placing it under by left buttock and sitting. It then feels like things are circulating better and the pain goes away. Have you ever heard of this and why does it happen?
See More
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment -3 answers
I had my baby 11 months ago and I'm still in pain. I think it's pelvic congestion syndrome. I want to get better but I don't know what to do. What are some steps I can take to improve?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR