Labial Varices
Labial Varices
You just spent nine months of your life growing a tiny human inside your body. You’ve sacrificed your comfort, appearance and at times your sanity, so you could bring a little life into the world. Pregnancy often results in stretch marks, weight gain and hormonal changes— but it is all 100% worth it when you see that sweet, precious infant at the end. After childbirth, it’s likely that your body will look and feel different. Even though there is nothing more important than holding a happy, healthy child in your arms, some of the physical changes you experience can feel embarrassing and the idea of discussing them with a healthcare provider might feel awkward. At Advanced Vein Therapy in Boise, we want you to feel comfortable and at ease when discussing anything, including labial varices. You can expect a pleasant, relaxed and professional atmosphere and an unmatched level of professionalism that will make you feel at ease.
What are labial varices?
Varices is another word for varicose veins that occur in a woman’s genital area. These veins bulge, twist and can be seen through the skin’s surface. Vulvar or labial varicose veins occur in 10% of pregnant women and typically happen with second pregnancies. Many women notice these veins in the 5th month of pregnancy. A common misconception is that these types varicose veins are the result of increased blood volume the pelvic region. Instead, they are caused by increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. While pregnant women have to except many physical changes, varices are treatable in most cases.
Labial varices are common
Varicose and spider veins are a common development during pregnancy, especially on the legs and face. The vulvar region is another area that varicose veins may occur. Because women are not encouraged to talk casually about their genitals, this form of varicose veins is not well known and can take a mother-to-be by surprise. As a result women may feel like there is something abnormal happening or feel afraid when these varicose veins show up during pregnancy. This condition is not unusual, however a visit with one of the vein specialists at Advanced Vein Therapy can help alleviate feelings of fear and embarrassment. Our vein specialists understand that labial varices are frightening and we have treatments remove them that we can walk you through to ease your mind.
Symptoms and treatment for labial varices
As your pregnant belly grows, seeing what is happening in your genital area might be difficult. The symptoms of labial varices may appear as a feeling of fullness or pressure in the vulvar area. You may also experience swelling and discomfort. The dilated and swollen vessels may bulge out in extreme cases. Standing for long periods of time, exercising and even sex may aggravate these symptoms and worsen the condition. While symptoms can be treated during pregnancy, it is best to wait until after you have given birth.
Sclerotherapy is a common method used for treating varices and has a high rate of success. Discomfort during treatment is minimal and the majority of patients report immediate relief.
If you are pregnant and struggling with labial varices, the following are a few things you can try to reduce the symptoms:
- Wear a support garment: Support garments designed to assist in vulvar vein varicosities are ideal. These often also provide support to the lower abdomen and back as well.
- Swim: Swimming and submerging the belly in water lifts the baby and alleviates pressure on pelvic area allowing the discomfort to be minimized.
- Avoid standing for too long: If you can help it, try not and stand for long periods of time. Shifting positions frequently reduces pain and decreases the severity of the condition.
- Elevate your hips when sleeping: Sleeping with a rolled up towel or body pillow between your legs or under your hips reduces the pressure and aids in comfort.
- Apply a cold compress: When the discomfort is severe, applying a cold compress may assuage the area.
Your choice for Boise labial varices treatment
Discovering labial varices during pregnancy is disheartening, but the good news is that relief is available. Advanced Vein Therapy in Boise has treatments that both alleviate the discomfort and remove the veins. Labial Varices is common condition and our friendly staff is here to make you feel comfortable, confident and at ease. Our vein experts are familiar with all varicose and spider vein conditions and treatments and will sit down with you to come up with the best treatment plan possible. Our goal is to help you find the relief you deserve so that the early days with your new baby are as magical as they should be. Give yourself some peace of mind and call us for an appointment today.