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Retroversion of the uterus

Uterus retroversion; Malposition of the uterus; Tipped uterus; Tilted uterus

 

Retroversion of the uterus occurs when a woman's uterus (womb) tilts backward rather than forward. It is commonly called a "tipped uterus."

Causes

 

Retroversion of the uterus is common. One in 5 women has this condition.The problem may also occur due to weakening of the pelvic ligaments at the time of menopause . An enlarged uterus can also be caused by pregnancy or a tumor .

Scar tissue in the pelvis (pelvic adhesions) can also hold the uterus in a retroverted position. Scarring may come from:

  • Endometriosis
  • Infection in uterus or tubes
  • Pelvic surgery

 

Symptoms

 

Retroversion of the uterus almost never causes any symptoms.

Rarely, it may cause pain or discomfort.

 

Exams and Tests

 

A pelvic exam will show the position of the uterus. However, a tipped uterus can sometimes be mistaken for a pelvic mass or a growing fibroid . A rectovaginal exam may be used to distinguish between a mass and a retroverted uterus.

An ultrasound test can be used to see the exact position of the uterus.

 

Treatment

 

Treatment is not needed most of the time. Underlying disorders, such as endometriosis or adhesions, should be treated as needed.

 

Outlook (Prognosis)

 

In most cases, the condition does not cause problems.

 

Possible Complications

 

Atypical positioning of the uterus may be caused by endometriosis, salpingitis, or pressure from a growing tumor.

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Call your health care provider if you have ongoing pelvic pain or discomfort.

 

Prevention

 

There is no way to prevent the problem. Early treatment of uterine infections or endometriosis may reduce the chances of a change in the position of the uterus.

 

 

References

Ball JW, Dains JE, Flynn JA, Solomon BS, Stewart RW. Female genitalia. In: Ball JW, Dains JE, Flynn JA, Solomon BS, Stewart RW, eds. Siedel's Guide to Physical Examination . 8th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby; 2015:chap 18.

Lobo RA. Endometriosis: etiology, pathology, diagnosis, management. In: Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, Katz VL, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2012:chap 19.

 
  • Female reproductive anatomy - illustration

    External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries and cervix.

    Female reproductive anatomy

    illustration

  • Uterus - illustration

    The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.

    Uterus

    illustration

    • Female reproductive anatomy - illustration

      External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries and cervix.

      Female reproductive anatomy

      illustration

    • Uterus - illustration

      The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.

      Uterus

      illustration

    Self Care

     

      Tests for Retroversion of the uterus

       

         

        Review Date: 5/16/2016

        Reviewed By: Irina Burd, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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