Vulvar varicosities are varicose veins that formed in the vulva or external genital region. Most women experience this condition during pregnancy. The reason for this is due to changes in the blood flow and increased level of hormones which causes the veins in the vulva to become enlarged. It results to pain and other symptoms in some individuals.
Among pregnant women, vulvar varicosities usually vanish without requiring medical care after childbirth. If they do not subside after childbirth or occur if not pregnant, there are treatment options available to lessen the symptoms.
Characteristics
It is likely for an individual to develop vulvar varicosities and not aware of it. It is hard to see the vulva and determine any changes especially during pregnancy.
There are cases where they occur on the labia major or minor, lips and the skin folds of the vulva.
Some of the visual signs that might arise include:
- Veins appear twisted and bulge out from the skin
- Veins that are soft and bluish or purplish in appearance
Some women suffer from more than just evident changes to the vulva. In some cases, it can trigger the following:
- Pain or pressure in the vulva
- Itchiness
- Sensation of heaviness or fullness in the vulva
- Pain during sexual activity
- Discomfort while walking
Management of vulvar varicosities
The doctor might suggest home remedies as the initial line of treatment such as:
- Application of ice packs on the affected area
- Elevate the hips while lying down to improve the blood flow
- Lessen the pressure on the body by regular changing of positions
- Use supportive garments or compression stockings
If the symptoms are severe or linked with additional conditions, the doctor might suggest the following:
- Apply only a limited amount of mild soap when cleaning the vulvar region. Dab on a topical corticosteroid cream after bathing to lessen the itchiness.
- Low molecular weight heparin is prescribed if there is a blood clot within the vulvar varicosities. This prevents further blood clots from developing and allows the body to break down the clot.
- Sclerotherapy might be performed in rare instances. A solution is injected into the varicose veins which causes them to scar and close. This causes the veins to fade over time. If this procedure is performed, it is ideally done if not pregnant.
FACT CHECK
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321661.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/vulvar-varicosities