Vulvar varices

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 5 Nov 2023

Vulvar varices (or vulval) are dilated superficial veins of the external female genitalia, which are primarily seen during pregnancy and usually resolve spontaneously postpartum.

Vulvar varicosities are seen in up to 4% of pregnant females in the vulvar and perivulvar region, and rarely seen in non-gravid females 2

Clinically vulvar varices may present as:

  • a small lump(s) in the labia majora  

  • a large mass involving the perivulvar and vulvar areas

They may be confused with cysts or neoplastic lesions, especially in the region of the Bartholin glands.

Vulvar varices are seen in patients with 2:

Most pregnancy-related vulvar and perivulvar varices subside spontaneously and may be managed conservatively. In unresolved cases, treatment options include sclerotherapy, embolization of dilated venous channels and surgical decompression 1,2.

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