The uterus is a hollow, muscular organ found between the bladder and rectum of the female pelvis1. This organ is about the same size and shape as a small pear, though it varies in size for every woman. Central to reproduction, the uterus contains and feeds a fertilized egg until the fetus develops and is born.
The unique structure and purpose of the uterus make it vulnerable to specific diseases. Three of the most common conditions affecting the uterus include uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and endometrial cancer.
Learn more about these conditions and how to screen for them in this article.
Common Uterus Problems and Disorders
Uterine disorders are medical conditions affecting the uterus that can impact fertility, menstruation, and overall health. Common uterine problems can include fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, endometriosis, and uterine prolapse.
What are The Symptoms of a Uterus Problem?
There are a number of signs you might notice that something is wrong with your uterus2:
- Unexplained pelvic discomfort: Women may experience lower abdominal pain, cramping, or a feeling of pressure in the pelvic region.
- Painful or prolonged menstruation: Heavy bleeding, prolonged periods lasting more than seven days, and severe menstruation cramps are common signs.
- Unusual vaginal discharge: Changes in vaginal discharge can indicate uterine issues.
- Bleeding after menopause: Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding is a potential symptom of uterine cancer.
- Frequent constipation or bladder pressure: Uterine conditions can cause urinary frequency, constipation, and a sensation of pelvic fullness.
Additional symptoms can include pain and bleeding during intercourse, lower back pain, and fertility issues.
Serious Uterine Conditions Requiring Medical Attention
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that form in the smooth muscle in the wall of the uterus. Fibroids are the most common condition affecting the uterus, occurring in up to 70 percent of Caucasian women and 80 percent of African-American women under age 503,4.
Although fibroids are common, they only cause symptoms in less than one-third of cases5.
Symptoms of uterine fibroids may include6:
- Abnormal menstrual bleeding
- Swollen or painful abdomen
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Constipation
- Painful intercourse
- Fertility problems
Uterine fibroids are often found during a routine pelvic exam, or they can be found in a medical imaging scan7. Fibroids can range widely in size, from 1 mm to 20 cm in diameter8. Size often affects the severity of symptoms.
Symptoms may worsen without treatment. Treatment options for uterine fibroids include medication or surgical treatment9.
Endometriosis
The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium10. Endometriosis is a disease that causes this tissue to grow in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowels, bladder, or behind the uterus11.
This disease is most commonly diagnosed among women in their 30s and 40s, but it can affect anyone who menstruates12.
The cause of endometriosis is currently unknown, but researchers have found certain risk factors13. Family history, starting menstruation before age 11, short monthly cycles, and heavy menstrual cycles are all associated with developing endometriosis.
Primary symptoms of endometriosis include11:
- Pelvic pain
- Painful periods
- Infertility
- Pain during sex
- Abdominal pain
- Heavy periods or bleeding between periods
- Pain with bowel movements or urination, usually during periods
Endometriosis may be found during a routine pelvic exam. Doctors may also perform an MRI scan to locate and assess the extent of the disease.
While there is no cure for endometriosis, treatments can help alleviate symptoms. These include pain relievers, hormone therapy, and surgery, as well as treatments for infertility.
Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, develops in the lining of the uterus14. Other types of cancer affect the uterus, such as uterine sarcoma, but they are rare.
The most common symptoms of endometrial cancer are vaginal bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, and pelvic pain. Fortunately, uterine cancer is often detected early because of these symptoms.
Treatments for endometrial cancer include15:
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery to remove the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries
- Immunotherapy to encourage the body’s immune system to fight cancer
Regular screening is important to catch cancers early.
Other Uterus Conditions to Watch For
Complications of a Tilted Uterus
A retroverted uterus, also known as a tilted uterus, occurs when the uterus curves backward at the cervix instead of forward16. While often asymptomatic, it can cause complications for some women.
Symptoms may include:
- Painful intercourse, especially in certain positions17.
- Severe menstrual cramps and back pain during periods.
- Difficulty inserting tampons.
- Urinary issues, such as frequent urination or mild incontinence.
In rare cases, a tilted uterus may contribute to fertility challenges. During pregnancy, a serious complication called uterine incarceration can occur in about 0.3 percent of cases, where the uterus becomes trapped in the pelvis18.
Treatment is usually unnecessary, but for severe symptoms, options may include pelvic exercises, pessary use, or, in extreme cases, surgical interventions19.
Uterine Prolapse
Uterine prolapse occurs when weakened pelvic muscles and tissues cause the uterus to descend into the vaginal canal. This condition is characterized by a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area.
Risk factors of uterine prolapse include multiple pregnancies and vaginal deliveries, aging, menopause, obesity, chronic constipation, or cough20.
Common symptoms of uterine prolapse include21:
- A sensation of fullness or pressure in the vagina.
- Urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder.
- Lower back pain.
- The feeling of a bulge in the vagina.
Treatment options range from conservative approaches to surgical interventions22. Some medical professionals recommend pelvic floor exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, pessaries to provide internal support, or, in severe cases, surgery, including reconstructive procedures or hysterectomy.
Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is a persistent bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the female reproductive system, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries23.
Symptoms of chronic PID include:
- Persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge.
- Irregular menstrual bleeding.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Fever and painful urination.
If left untreated, PID can lead to serious long-term complications, including infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics to target various bacteria. Lifestyle adjustments and regular check-ups are important for preventing recurrence and managing long-term effects.
Uterus Problems in Old Age
Uterine health concerns become more prevalent as women age, leading to uterine prolapse, endometrial changes, and increased cancer risk. Postmenopausal endometrium typically becomes thin and inactive, but abnormal thickening can occur, potentially leading to postmenopausal bleeding24. Older women face a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, with the median age at diagnosis being 6225. A significant risk factor for this is obesity26.
How to Improve Uterine Health
How Can I Prevent Uterus Problems?
Preventing uterus problems involves adopting a holistic approach to women’s health:
- Healthy diet: Incorporate leafy greens, iron-rich foods, and whole grains into your meals. Reduce consumption of processed foods and sugary items27.
- Regular exercise: Engage in moderate physical activity to maintain hormonal balance and improve circulation28. Practice pelvic floor exercises, especially during and after pregnancy29.
- Avoid harmful substances: Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to reduce cancer risk and improve fertility30,31.
- Stress management: Adopt stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises32.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Keep body fat percentage low to help regulate estrogen levels.
- Regular check-ups: Schedule routine gynecological exams for early detection and prevention of issues33.
How Do You Know You Have a Healthy Uterus?
You can get an idea of whether you have a healthy uterus from the following signs:
- Regular pain-free menstrual cycles: Consistent periods without severe cramping or discomfort.
- Absence of chronic pelvic pain: No persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
- No abnormal bleeding: Lack of bleeding between periods or after menopause.
- Normal pap smear and pelvic exam results: Routine gynecological check-ups showing no abnormalities.
- Clear imaging results: MRI scans can provide detailed visualization of uterine health, detecting potential issues early.
Ezra can catch a number of conditions in the body.
Summary: Female Uterus Problems and Diseases to Watch Out For
The uterus is vital for female fertility but is prone to various health conditions, including fibroids, endometriosis, and endometrial cancer. Common symptoms of uterine disorders include pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and fertility issues. Serious conditions like uterine prolapse, chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and a tilted uterus can also impact women’s health. Maintaining uterine health involves a balanced diet, exercise, stress management, and routine gynecological check-ups. Early screening is important for detecting and managing potential problems.
If you want to be proactive about your uterine health, why not book an Ezra full-body MRI? Our annual scan catches potential cancer earlier, leveraging AI through the screening process to make it more efficient, affordable, and faster.
