A tilted uterus is a common anatomical variation that can cause minor problems such as discomfort during intercourse or painful periods, but it does not affect fertility. Treatment is available for more serious complications, and physical exercises or surgery can reposition the uterus. A gynecologist can identify a tilted uterus during a routine exam. During pregnancy, the uterus will often move into position naturally, but in rare cases, a retroverted uterus has been linked to early miscarriage.
A tilted uterus is a uterus that leans backwards, rather than having a slight forward lean, as is more conventional. Also known as a tilted or retroverted uterus, this type of uterus is very common and many women have this slight anatomical difference without even realizing it. Having a tilted uterus can cause problems such as discomfort during intercourse or painful periods, but in many cases the problems are very minor. Treatment is available for women who experience more serious complications from a tilted uterus.
Doctors sometimes liken having a tilted uterus to being left-handed, to emphasize the fact that it’s a very normal variation that often has little impact on a woman’s life. One of the most common causes of uterine tilt is developmental variations that occur during infancy. Medical conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids have also been linked to a retroverted uterus, and the condition can also emerge in the wake of childbirth, during menopause when surrounding ligaments weaken, or as a result of pelvic surgery.
A gynecologist can identify a tilted uterus during a routine exam. As a general rule, there are no special recommendations for the patient, although if she has difficulty inserting tampons, has painful intercourse or complains of dysmenorrhea, she may be encouraged to perform physical exercises which are intended to encourage the uterus to move forward. Surgery can also be done to reposition the uterus.
Historically, people believed that having a tilted uterus could lead to fertility problems. In fact, researchers have determined that this condition causes no problems with conceiving or carrying a child. Women with this anatomical variation who have fertility problems typically have these problems because of the underlying condition that caused the tilted uterus in the first place; women with a history of fibroids, for example, may have fertility problems.
A tilted uterus during pregnancy is also not a major cause for concern. Often, the uterus will move into position naturally as the baby develops. In a small number of cases, a retroverted uterus has been linked to miscarriage early in pregnancy. However, there are many causes of miscarriage during the first trimester that can make their specific link to uterine location difficult. Women who are concerned can discuss their concerns with their obstetricians or antenatal care providers.
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