Vein problems are not only about legs. First Coast Cardiovascular Institute (FCCI) lists lower pelvic pain in women, veins across the belly or pelvis, varicose veins in the vaginal area, large varicose veins on the back of the thighs and pain during sex among the signs of deep vein disease. If any of these sound familiar, a vein doctor is a reasonable place to ask.
Why women see more vein issues
FCCI shares that 50% of women and 40% of men have a venous problem. Hormones are one of the factors FCCI lists in chronic venous insufficiency.
Symptoms to mention
- Lower pelvic pain or pressure
- Visible veins across the belly or pelvis
- Varicose veins in the vaginal or upper inner thigh area
- Large varicose veins on the back of the thighs
- Pain during sex
These can feel embarrassing to bring up. Your vein team asks about them because they help point to where the problem starts.
How deep veins are checked
Pelvic and belly veins sit deep. FCCI uses intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), a minimally invasive procedure that images the deep veins of the legs, pelvis and abdomen from inside the vein. It helps tell the difference between a clot, compression and other problems. Venography, an x-ray exam, shows how blood is flowing through veins.
Treatment options
If a deep vein is narrowed, FCCI may use venoplasty to widen it with a balloon, or a stent to help keep it open. Your doctor will explain if any of this applies to you. Many women start with a simple leg ultrasound and go from there.
When to get help fast
Sudden, severe pelvic or belly pain, heavy bleeding, chest pain or shortness of breath are not vein-clinic problems. Call 911 or go to the ER.
Talking about it is the hard part
Many women live with pelvic aching or heavy thighs for years, assuming it is just part of life after kids or with age. It might be something else, and it might be treatable. A first visit is just a conversation and, often, an ultrasound. You decide what happens after that. Bring a friend if it helps, and write your symptoms down so you do not have to say every word out loud.
About the Vein Clinic at FCCI
Pelvic vein problems are easy to miss, which is why a dedicated vein team helps. FCCI has served Northeast Florida since 2002, and its Vein Clinic houses board certified endovascular and vascular physicians. If your symptoms point to something else, cardiology, sleep, wound and lung specialists are close by in the same building.
Imaging for pelvic and leg veins is done by registered vascular technologists in a lab accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission. Vein procedures are outpatient.
Getting ready for your visit
- Call 904.493.3333 to book, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fill out the New Patient Registration form from Patient Resources before talking with the vein team about pelvic symptoms
- Bring your ID, insurance card and a list of your medicines
- Wear shorts or loose pants so your legs are easy to check
- Write down when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
- Need to reschedule? FCCI asks for at least 24 hours' notice
Pelvic symptoms can feel personal. Talk them through privately with your care team in person or by phone, not through online forms.
If pelvic pain and leg veins sound familiar, call FCCI at 904.493.3333, weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or request a visit on our Book page. You can start with the free 20-minute vein screening at 7011 AC Skinner Parkway, Ste 160 on the Southside. Sudden leg swelling with chest pain or shortness of breath needs 911.
