TIPPED UTERUS

In most women, the uterus (womb) is hanging in a straight up and down position or is slightly tipped forward towards the abdomen. A tipped uterus is one that is tilted backwards away from the front of the body. About 20 percent of women have a uterus that is tipped toward the back rather than forward. Other names used for this condition that you may hear are retroverted uterus, or malposition of the uterus. All three names mean the same thing.

This happens for many reasons. Pelvic scarring from an infection or surgery, childbirth, fibroid tumors, and endometriosis can cause a tipped uterus. A less common reason is when the uterus fails to fall into the normal up and down or forward position as a woman matures.

Most women do not have any symptoms. Some women experience pain during sex or pain with their periods. Other symptoms that have been noted are trouble using tampons, trouble getting pregnant, back pain, or having more frequent bladder infections.

Usually a tipped uterus is found when a woman has a pelvic examination by her healthcare provider. If disease is the suspected cause of a tipped uterus, a laparoscopy procedure may be necessary. The procedure inserts a small telescope called a laparoscope into the woman's abdomen to look at the internal organs.

It is not necessary to have any treatment for a tipped uterus unless you are having problems getting pregnant or problems with a leakage of urine. A very simple surgery called uplift can be done to relieve symptoms. Ask your healthcare provider to explain your options.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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