Everything to Know About Women’s Vascular Health

When we think about women’s health, topics like reproductive care or breast health often come to mind, but there’s one area that deserves just as much attention: vascular health. Your vascular system is made up of a complex network of arteries and veins that carry oxygen-rich blood to every part of the body. Women’s vascular health can play a significant role in long-term wellness, especially as they age or experience hormonal shifts.

At Pedes Orange County, we’re dedicated to helping women better understand, monitor, and treat vascular conditions so they can live healthier, more empowered lives. Whether you’re dealing with leg discomfort, circulatory concerns, or questions about risk factors, this guide is for you.

Why Women’s Vascular Health Matters

Vascular disease affects both men and women, but some conditions present differently in women, are underdiagnosed, or are mistaken for something else entirely. Hormones, pregnancy, and even birth control can impact the vascular system, which is why recognizing subtle symptoms early is so important.

Many vascular conditions are progressive, meaning they worsen over time. But the good news? With early detection and minimally invasive treatments, many of these conditions can be managed or even reversed.

Common Vascular Conditions in Women

Here are some of the most common vascular issues that women may face:

1. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

CVI occurs when the veins in the legs struggle to return blood to the heart. This can lead to leg swelling, heaviness, skin discoloration, or varicose veins. Women, especially those who are pregnant or have had multiple pregnancies, are more likely to develop CVI due to increased pressure on the lower extremities.

2. Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that typically appear in the legs. They can be both a cosmetic concern and a sign of poor circulation. Spider veins are smaller, web-like veins visible near the surface of the skin. While they’re often harmless, they may be an early indicator of underlying vein disease.

3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD occurs when arteries narrow due to plaque buildup, restricting blood flow, usually to the legs. Women with PAD may experience leg cramping, fatigue, or even non-healing wounds. Unfortunately, PAD is sometimes misdiagnosed in women because symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions.

4. Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCS)

PVCS is a condition in which varicose veins develop in the pelvic region, causing chronic pelvic pain. It often worsens after standing or sitting for long periods. It’s most commonly seen in women who have had multiple pregnancies and is often underdiagnosed due to the complexity of symptoms.

5. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs. It’s a serious condition because the clot can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. Women taking hormonal birth control or undergoing hormone replacement therapy may have an increased risk of DVT.

Unique Risk Factors for Women

While lifestyle factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and lack of physical activity affect everyone, women face unique risk factors when it comes to vascular disease:

• Hormonal changes: Estrogen affects blood vessel health. Fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or when using hormonal contraceptives can increase risk.
• Pregnancy: Carrying a baby places added stress on the veins in the pelvis and legs, increasing the risk of varicose veins and CVI.
• Autoimmune conditions: Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are more common in women and are linked to higher vascular inflammation.
• Family history: Genetics does play a role, especially in conditions like varicose veins or clotting disorders.

Understanding your personal risk factors can help you make more informed decisions about your care.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Vascular conditions don’t always make themselves obvious. Some women may chalk up leg fatigue or swelling to standing too long or just “getting older.” But early signs are worth paying attention to:

• Persistent leg pain or heaviness
• Swelling in the ankles or calves
• Visible varicose or spider veins
• Skin discoloration or ulcers that won’t heal
• Pelvic pain unrelated to menstruation
• Cold feet or slow-growing toenails
• Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (which could indicate a clot)

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a consultation with a vascular specialist can offer answers and peace of mind.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At Pedes Orange County, we take a comprehensive, compassionate approach to diagnosing vascular conditions in women. That means:

• Listening closely to your symptoms
• Conducting a full medical history and physical exam
• Using advanced, non-invasive imaging tools like ultrasound or CT angiography
• Considering hormonal, reproductive, and lifestyle factors unique to women

No rushed visits. No guesswork. Just a clearer picture of what’s going on inside your body.

Treatment Options

We specialize in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments that are performed right in our state-of-the-art facility. These procedures typically involve little downtime and a quicker return to your daily routine.

Treatment may include:

• Angiograms and arterial interventions to restore blood flow in cases of PAD
• Endovenous ablation or sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins
• Embolization procedures for conditions like pelvic congestion syndrome
• Compression therapy and lifestyle counseling for long-term vein health

Prioritizing Prevention

The best approach to vascular health is a proactive one. Here’s how you can help protect your blood vessels:

• Stay active with regular walking or low-impact exercise
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing when possible
• Maintain a heart-healthy diet
• Wear compression stockings if recommended
• Stay hydrated and avoid smoking
• Attend regular check-ups, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms

Being informed and engaged in your care is one of the most empowering things you can do for your health.

Women’s Vascular Care in Irvine, CA

You deserve care that sees the full picture, not just symptoms, but how your vascular health impacts your quality of life. At Pedes Orange County, we specialize in treating vascular disease with compassion, expertise, and cutting-edge technology.

Whether you’re seeking answers, considering treatment, or just want to stay proactive, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted vascular specialists.