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FAIRFAX, VA (March 3, 2026)—The Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) published new practice guidance for the treatment of chronic pelvic pain in women who suffer from a pelvic venous disorder. The guidance was published online in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR).

Pelvic venous disorders (PeVDs) encompass a range of symptoms caused by conditions such as venous reflux or obstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC), ovarian, iliac and or left renal veins. Many women with these conditions suffer from chronic pelvic pain (CPP), which can be treated by an interventional radiologist. Because venous-origin pelvic pain is often confused with gynecological issues, many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, prolonging their suffering.

This document provides evidence-based guidance for healthcare providers on the clinical evaluation of venous-origin chronic pelvic pain (VO-CPP), appropriate diagnostic and pre-procedural imaging, and appropriate treatments tailored to the diagnosis—ranging from pharmacological treatment to interventions, such as embolization or stenting.

“While many people assume chronic pelvic pain is gynecological in nature, studies show that more than 80% of women with CPP do not have a gynecological problem,” said SIR President Robert A. Lookstein, M.D., FSIR. “Because of the misconceptions about the causes of CPP, it can be hard for women to obtain a diagnosis and find treatment. We hope this guidance changes that dynamic and ensures that women get access to the care they need without delay.”

The document was developed by SIR’s Women’s Health Clinical Specialty Council and Venous Clinical Specialty Council, in collaboration with the SIR Guidelines and Statements Division.