Ovarian Vein Embolisation (Embolization): How It Works and Who It Helps
Ovarian and pelvic vein embolisation explained: who it is for, what happens before, during and after, results, risks, fertility and cost in Singapore.
Section 03 of 07
Treatment Options
How pelvic congestion syndrome and other pelvic vein disorders are treated, including ovarian and pelvic vein embolisation, iliac vein stenting, hormonal medicines, and what the evidence says about each option.
Articles in Treatment Options
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment: Every Option Compared
Pelvic congestion syndrome treatment compared: self-care, hormonal medicines, physiotherapy, embolisation, stenting and surgery, and what the evidence shows.
The aim of treatment
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, not to make scans look normal. Widened veins that cause no symptoms usually need no treatment. When symptoms are troublesome and the veins are the likely cause, options include:
- Pelvic vein embolisation. A minimally invasive procedure, usually done by an interventional radiologist or vascular specialist through a small tube in a vein. The faulty veins are closed with coils, a foam or liquid that seals the vein (sclerosant), or plugs. Blood then drains through healthy veins.
- Iliac vein stenting. For a narrowed or compressed iliac vein (such as May-Thurner anatomy), a metal mesh tube can hold the vein open.
- Medicines. Hormonal medicines that reduce ovarian activity can ease symptoms for some women, but side effects limit long-term use.
- Surgery. Open or keyhole surgery on the ovarian veins, or hysterectomy with removal of the ovaries, is now rarely used for this condition.
Talk through all the options
The evidence for embolisation is encouraging, but many studies are small and not randomised. A good specialist will explain the expected benefit, the risks and the alternatives, including doing nothing for now.
Explore the other sections
Understanding Pelvic Vein Conditions
What pelvic congestion is, its symptoms, causes and related conditions.
Diagnosis and Tests
How doctors confirm pelvic vein problems and rule out other causes.
Recovery and Living Well
What to expect after treatment, and day-to-day self-care.
Pregnancy, Sex and Women's Health
Pregnancy, fertility, periods, menopause and pain during sex.
Men's Pelvic Vein Health
Varicocele, its symptoms, treatment and effect on fertility.
Questions and Costs
Is it serious? Who treats it? What does it cost?