Publication:

Large vaginal varicosities in the pregnancy without any known systemic disease: a rare case report

Vaginal varices during pregnancy is a rare condition. Only a few cases have been reported in the literature. Most vaginal varices are asymptomatic, but some are associated with a sense of local mass, or severe discomfort and spontaneous vaginal bleeding. A 26-year-old woman was admitted for spontaneous vaginal bleeding at 38 weeks’ gestation. Upon pelvic inspection, we observed dilated vascular structure on the sub-urethral vaginal wall, and the trans-labial ultrasound imaging revealed a blood flow along the vaginal area, confirming the presence of a vaginal varicosity (Figure 3). We concluded that the mass was large vaginal varicosities as there was no discernible etiolgy. Instead of a normal delivery, we performed a cesarean section to prevent the potential risk of the profuse vaginal bleeding. For long-term management, close observation in postpartum period was recommended. Spontaneous resolution is a potential outcome and this is what our patient experienced.