Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS): Fact or Fiction?

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a controversial entity that does not currently have validated diagnostic criteria. In the ACOG PB 218 (2020), it states, “Pelvic congestion syndrome is a proposed etiology of chronic pelvic pain related to pelvic venous insufficiency. Although venous congestion appears to be associated with chronic pelvic pain, evidence is insufficient to conclude that there is a cause-and-effect relationship. In addition, there is no consensus on the definition of this condition, and diagnostic criteria are variable. Further research is needed to establish greater consistency in diagnosis and homogeneity in treatment studies”. Is that it? Is that all there is? NO! There has been great interest in the diagnosis of this enigmatic condition and in potential new treatment options. The last publication on this was just released in March 2025 as a “pilot study”. In this episode, we will combine multiple sources and explain this controversial condition and offer hope to patients who may indeed have this real disorder.