A retroverted uterus is a common condition in which the uterus tilts towards the back rather than to the front. An anteflexed uterus means the top of the uterus (fundus) is pointing forward, which is a normal position.
Uterine fibroids (also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas) are abnormal growths in the muscle of the uterus. Approximately 80% of women will have fibroids in their lifetime. Subserosal fibroids grow outward from the uterus to the pelvic cavity.
A unicornuate uterus is a rare condition that is present from birth (congenital) that causes an individual to have only half a uterus. Individuals with a unicornuate uterus have one working fallopian tube (instead of two) and a smaller uterine cavity. The body reabsorbs the other half of the uterus. A rudimentary horn is what’s left of the uterine tissue that was absorbed. The rudimentary horn may or may not be connected to the unicornuate uterus. In addition, the rudimentary horn may or may not have functioning endometrial lining/cavity. The condition is usually asymptomatic (does not cause symptoms) but sometimes can be associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (i.e. miscarriages, preterm labor).
An adenomyoma (focal adenomyosis) is a non-cancerous abnormal growth where endometrial tissue (the innermost lining layer of the uterus) is inside the uterus muscle, resulting in a mass. Symptoms, if present, may include heavier than normal menstrual bleeding, pain with menstruation, and painful intercourse.
Leiomyosarcoma isa rare, malignant (cancerous) tumor that arises from the smooth muscle lining the walls of the uterus. While the exact cause of a uterine leiomyosarcoma is unknown, associated risk factors include long-term use of tamoxifen (five years or more), history of pelvic radiation, and inherited conditions (e.g. childhood retinoblastoma)
Uterine and adnexal (ovaries and fallopian tubes) atrophy is a response to a hypo-estrogen state (low estrogen levels in the body). Atrophy describes when tissue “wastes away” or thins. The most common cause for a hypo-estrogen state is menopause. Other factors that can cause uterine and adnexal atrophy include prolonged oral contraception, ovarian dysfunction and tamoxifen use (estrogen-lowering medication). Atrophy is a normal change to the uterus and adnexa as a woman ages and goes through menopause.
