What Is May-Thurner Syndrome?
May-Thurner Syndrome is a condition that affects how blood flows through the veins in the pelvis. It occurs when the left iliac vein is compressed, which can interfere with normal circulation and contribute to symptoms such as pelvic discomfort, pressure, or unexplained pain.
For many women, these symptoms may not immediately point to a vascular cause. It’s not uncommon to go through multiple evaluations before identifying that blood flow within the pelvis may be playing a role. At California Pelvic Pain Institute, we focus on identifying these less obvious causes of pelvic pain and helping patients better understand what may be contributing to their symptoms.
What Causes May-Thurner Syndrome?
May-Thurner Syndrome develops due to a structural compression of a vein in the pelvis, most commonly where an artery presses against the left iliac vein.
This ongoing compression can:
Slow or restrict normal blood flow
Create increased pressure within the vein
Affect circulation in the surrounding pelvic region
Over time, these changes in blood flow may contribute to discomfort or a sense of fullness in the pelvis.
Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome
The symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome can be subtle or develop gradually, making it difficult to connect them to a specific condition.
Patients may experience:
Ongoing pelvic discomfort or a deep aching sensation
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen
Symptoms that become more noticeable after standing or sitting for extended periods
Fluctuating discomfort that varies throughout the day
In some cases, heaviness or swelling in one leg
Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, identifying the underlying cause often requires specialized imaging.
How May-Thurner Syndrome Is Diagnosed
A detailed evaluation is important to determine whether vein compression may be contributing to pelvic symptoms. MRI imaging is used to visualize the pelvic vessels and surrounding structures. This allows our team to:
Identify areas where the vein may be compressed
Evaluate how blood is flowing through the pelvis
Assess any changes in vein size or structure
This information helps guide a more accurate diagnosis and supports personalized treatment planning.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
Treatment for May-Thurner Syndrome is focused on improving blood flow through the affected vein and reducing pressure within the pelvis.
Venous Stent Placement
A commonly used treatment approach is venous stenting, a minimally invasive procedure designed to support the compressed vein.
During this procedure:
A small catheter is inserted through a tiny access point
Imaging is used to guide the catheter to the area of narrowing
A stent is placed within the vein to help restore and maintain proper blood flow
This approach is designed to address the underlying compression directly while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissue.
What to Expect After Treatment
Following treatment, most patients experience a relatively smooth recovery. However, as circulation recalibrates, you may feel a temporary increase in pressure and associated discomfort. This pain subsides after a few days, varies from patient to patient, and may be treated with pain medication.
Patients are typically able to return home the same day and resume light activity within a short timeframe, gradually returning to normal routines as they feel comfortable. As circulation improves, some patients begin to notice changes in their symptoms over time, while some patients report almost immediate relief.
A Thoughtful, Coordinated Approach to Care
We understand that pelvic symptoms can be complex and sometimes involve more than one contributing factor. Our goal is to ensure that patients feel supported not only during treatment but throughout the entire process of finding answers.
When appropriate, we collaborate with OB-GYN providers, pelvic floor therapists, and other specialists to ensure that care is well-rounded and aligned with each patient’s needs.
Helping You Find Clarity and Relief
Living with ongoing pelvic discomfort can be both physically and emotionally challenging, especially when the cause is not immediately clear. Identifying conditions like May-Thurner Syndrome can be an important step toward understanding what your body is experiencing.
At California Pelvic Pain Institute, we are committed to helping patients gain clarity, explore treatment options, and move forward with care that supports both comfort and confidence.
Ready to Find Relief?
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