What Is Retroverted Uterus?

Retroverted uterus is a condition in which the uterus is positioned so that it tips backward toward the spine rather than forward toward the navel. It is often called a tilted uterus or tipped uterus.

Retroverted uterus is a common, usually harmless condition that affects about one out of every five women.

This article examines the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of retroverted uterus.

Retroverted Uterus Symptoms

In most cases, a retroverted uterus doesn’t cause any symptoms, and a person is unaware they have the condition.

Though there are no specific symptoms, some side effects reported can include lower back pain, pain during sex, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Causes

In most cases, a retroverted uterus is present at birth. Conditions or surgeries that cause adhesions or scarring in the pelvic area can also pull the uterus back and cause it to become retroverted. They include:

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Fibroids
• Pelvic infection or surgery

Pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause can also lead to a retroverted uterus due to the stretching or weakening of the muscles and ligaments supporting the uterus.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can often determine what position the uterus is in with a pelvic exam. A retroverted uterus can sometimes look like a fibroid or mass, and a rectovaginal exam might become necessary. If whether the uterus is retroverted is still unclear, a transvaginal ultrasound can also assist in its diagnosis.

Treatment

In most cases, treatment for a retroverted uterus is unnecessary. However, any underlying causes may require treatment.

If the retroverted uterus is causing symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend knee-chest exercises or a vaginal pessary to help reposition the uterus. However, these are both considered temporary solutions and may not help at all.

Prognosis

In most cases, a woman is unaware of having a retroverted uterus and does not experience any symptoms. If there are symptoms, underlying conditions might need treatment. The prognosis will depend on the underlying condition and its severity.

In most cases, a retroverted uterus that occurs naturally and not from underlying causes does not prevent conceiving or normal pregnancy, labor, and birth.

Coping

Retroverted uteruses can cause painful symptoms, especially if there are underlying conditions. See a healthcare provider if you are experiencing pelvic pain or other symptoms interfering with your life.

Although a retroverted uterus is not directly linked to infertility, if you are under 35 and have been trying to get pregnant for more than one year, or over 35 and have been trying to conceive for more than six months, you should consult a healthcare provider who may need to refer you to a fertility specialist.

Summary

A retroverted uterus is a common and typically harmless condition where the uterus tips backward instead of forward. Although a retroverted uterus is often present at birth, it can result from underlying conditions in which there are pelvic adhesions, scarring, or muscle and ligament weakness.

Symptoms of a retroverted uterus can include menstrual pain, bowel difficulties, problems inserting tampons, and pain during sex. The retroverted uterus usually shows no signs and doesn't require treatment. Having a retroverted uterus typically does not make it more difficult to conceive, carry a pregnancy, or give birth. However, underlying conditions that lead to a retroverted uterus can make it harder to get pregnant.