Retroversion Of The Uterus

What is Retroversion Of The Uterus?

Retroversion of the uterus is a normal variation of female pelvic anatomy in which the body of the uterus is tipped toward the back rather than forward. It is commonly called a "tipped uterus."

Alternative names

Uterus retroversion; Malposition of the uterus; Tipped uterus

Causes

Retroversion of the uterus is common. It is the normal uterine position in about 20% of all women.

Weakening pelvic ligaments associated with menopause may cause this condition in women who previously did not have a retroverted uterus.

Enlargement of the uterus, either as the result of a pregnancy or a tumor, may also change lead to retroversion.

Scar tissue in the pelvix (pelvic adhesions) can also hold the uterus in a retroflexed position. Such scarring may result from:

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Salpingitis

Symptoms & Signs

Retroversion of the uterus almost never causes any symptoms.

Rarely, it may cause pain or discomfort.

Exams and Tests

A pelvic examination reveals the position of the uterus. However, a tipped uterus can sometimes be mistaken for a pelvic mass or an enlarging fibroid. A rectovaginal exam may be used to distinguish between a mass and a retroverted uterus.

An ultrasound examination can be used to determine the exact position of the uterus, if necessary.

Treatments

Treatment is usually not necessary. Any underlying disorders (such as endometriosis or adhesions) may be treated as needed.

Prognosis

Usually this condition does not cause problems.

Possible Complications

Atypical positioning of the uterus may be caused by endometriosis, salpingitis, or pressure from a growing tumor. These conditions should be ruled out in a patient with pain or other symptoms.

When to contact a medical professional

Call your health care provider if you develop persistent pelvic pain or discomfort.

Prevention

There is no known prevention. However, early treatment of PID or endometriosis may reduce the chances of a change in the position of the uterus.

References

Lentz GM. Differential diagnosis of major gynecologic problems by age group: vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pelvic mass. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 8.

Content provided by:

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2008 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Review Date: 10/28/2008

Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington ; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.10/28/2008