Why you shouldn’t wait to consult with a doctor about possible treatments for the symptoms of pelvic congestion syndrome.

Women are more likely than men to have put off visiting a doctor during the pandemic, and women who face economic challenges are even more likely to have put off medical care. These findings were reported by the Kaiser Family Foundation based on their survey of 661 women and 1,144 men, aged 18-64, about their healthcare actions. 

Women were both less likely to seek medical care and to get a recommended treatment. When women were surveyed, 38% responded that they skipped preventative care, but only 26% of men reported doing so. Women reported more often skipping tests and treatments (23% to 15%).  This reality has hit women of color harder than any group of women as well. For example, four (4) in ten (10) hispanic women reported skipping preventative medical treatment.

Why? Women’s health expert Jessica Shepherd, MD, an OB-GYN in Texas and the chief medical officer of Verywell Health says “These findings are not surprising as it was also shown that during the pandemic, women had increased responsibility to take care of the family members, schooling for children and also older family members. Their time to devote to their health also suffered as well.”

Putting off consultation with a physician can be the result of many factors. But it seems clear that many women put the needs of others first. And yet their own healthcare is vitally important to them and to those they love. 

The symptoms of PCS can be assessed and addressed. In many cases, a pelvic vein embolization is recommended. This procedure is minimally invasive and  non-surgical. It can be performed in an outpatient setting and involves the use of local anesthetic and some sedation (no general anesthesia). A consultation with a medical professional is the first step toward determining the best treatment options.