The uterus is an organ inside the female pelvis that is responsible for supporting menstruation and pregnancy. Normally, the uterus is fist-sized; however certain medical conditions may cause the uterus to become enlarged or bigger than normal. While many women worry about uterine cancer causing an enlarged uterus, there are other treatable medical reasons for this condition.
Fibroid Tumors
Fibroid tumors, also called myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop inside or on the uterus. Fibroids can grow on the uterine lining, on the outside of the uterus, or inside uterine muscle. Tumor sizes may range from very small to as large as 5 to 6 inches wide, according to the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Multiple fibroids or even one large fibroid can cause uterine enlargement. A woman with fibroids may experience abdominal fullness, have a distended or rounded abdomen, or experience heavy menstrual bleeding, painful intercourse or infertility.
While the cause of fibroid tumors is not known, they can be detected with a pelvic examination, pelvic ultrasound or by looking inside the cervix or uterus with a small scope. Medical interventions to treat fibroid tumors include hormone-based medications to reduce fibroid size and surgical removal.
Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows into the uterine muscle. Mayo Clinic.com advises that adenomyosis may double or triple the size of a woman's uterus. This may cause a full feeling in the lower abdomen. Adenomyosis may cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, such as abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding between periods and painful intercourse; however some women have no symptoms at all. Diagnostic tests such as a pelvic exam to feel for uterine enlargement and pelvic ultrasound are used for adenomyosis diagnosis. Though the condition may be relieved with medical treatment, hysterectomy, or surgical removal of the uterus, is the only cure.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy causes uterine enlargement as the uterus grows to accommodate the developing fetus. Intrauterine pregnancy, or a pregnancy growing inside the uterus, causes steady increase in uterine size throughout pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy, or pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus, can also cause enlarged uterus. An ectopic pregnancy may grow inside a fallopian tube or on the outside lining of the uterus facing the pelvic cavity. Ectopic-related uterine enlargement may be felt six to eight weeks after conception. While normal intrauterine pregnancy can be monitored until delivery, ectopic pregnancy causes a life-risk for the mother and must be surgically removed to prevent maternal harm or death.
