Pregnancy Pain and Discomfort

VULVAR VARICES

A vulvar varix is a dilated vein of the vulva, usually located on one or both external labia (just like a varix could be on the calf). Among the pains during pregnancy, vulvar varices are one of the most unpleasant.

Here are the causes:

Dilation of the veins in the pelvic area, compressed by the uterus
A lack of tone in the walls of blood vessels
An increase in blood volume during pregnancy
Hypersensitivity of the vulva to hormonal changes

Vulvar varices occur mainly in pregnant women, sometimes as early as the first months of pregnancy. They do not represent a contraindication to vaginal delivery.

The multiparity of pregnancies and chronic venous insufficiency that some women suffer from are factors that promote the appearance of vulvar varices, as well as the multiparity of pregnancies.

The term "vulvar varices" often comes up during examinations by the gynecologist, midwife, or phlebologist. However, since they are not always visible when lying down, it frequently happens that vulvar varices are never diagnosed. Indeed, since the symptoms are not very pleasant to describe, this topic often remains taboo; some women do not dare to talk about it during consultations and continue to suffer in silence.

To better diagnose vulvar varices, here are the symptoms:

A feeling of swelling in the vulva, more specifically in the external labia (with or without bulges)
Itching
Warm sensations
A strong feeling of heaviness in the vulva while standing
Discomfort during sexual intercourse
Difficulty walking or lifting the legs

The treatments proposed for vulvar varices are as follows:

The prescription of venotonic medications, anti-itch creams, and compression stockings or tights is generally prescribed, solutions that remain somewhat ineffective. Elevating the bed, using a cold water jet, and applying a bag of frozen peas can relieve pain when lying down. In the face of a lack of effective solutions, surgical interventions for sclerosis, far from being trivial, are beginning to multiply to relieve women who are too uncomfortable. The Pelvinity compression panties is currently the most effective solution for the pain and feelings of heaviness experienced. Relief is instantaneous thanks to the compression therapy it provides to the pelvic area. Fortunately for pregnant women, vulvar varices generally disappear after childbirth! However, if vulvar varices persist, it is advisable to consult a phlebologist/angiologist to rule out any pelvic congestion syndrome.

PUBALGIAS

Pubalgia is a pain localized at the pubis, which can occur during or outside of pregnancy in women. It is caused by movement and relieved by rest. It generally appears gradually. In pregnant women, the pain sometimes radiates to the leg or abdomen. The pain is more intense with certain movements: walking, turning in bed, getting out of a car, going up or down stairs. Since the pain is related to the state of pregnancy, it usually disappears in the weeks following childbirth, as the pelvis returns to its place. After the baby passes, during the postpartum period, it is possible that the entire pelvis does not reposition correctly; in this case, a consultation with an osteopath may be useful.

What is Lacomme syndrome?

The Lacomme syndrome represents a specific type of pubalgia occurring during pregnancy. It is a joint dislocation of the pelvis that happens at the end of pregnancy. The pelvis changes in anticipation of childbirth to make room for the passage of the baby. This syndrome can lead to difficulties in walking.