A 32-year-old woman at 36 weeks of gestation presents to the GP with a large, painful unilateral varicose vein on the left labia. It is causing signif...

Question

A 32-year-old woman at 36 weeks of gestation presents to the GP with a large, painful unilateral varicose vein on the left labia. It is causing significant discomfort when walking and sitting. There is no bleeding or thrombosis. Which is the single most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Reassure that vulval varicosities are common in pregnancy, advise supportive measures (ice packs, avoidance of prolonged standing, supportive underwear), and explain they usually resolve after delivery

Answer

Refer for urgent surgical excision

Answer

Prescribe oral diosmin for venous insufficiency

Answer

Apply topical heparinoid cream

Answer

Arrange a Doppler ultrasound to exclude DVT

uk-drcog MCQ (SBA): Vulval Varicosities in Pregnancy

A 32-year-old woman at 36 weeks of gestation presents to the GP with a large, painful unilateral varicose vein on the left labia. It is causing significant discomfort when walking and sitting. There is no bleeding or thrombosis. Which is the single most appropriate management?