The uterus is a small, muscular female reproductive organ responsible for maintaining and nourishing the fetus until it is ready for birth. An enlarged uterus is a condition in which the uterus is more significant than it is supposed to be. This condition can be severe and affect fertility. Hence, we at USA Fibroids want to share everything about the enlarged uterus, from its enlarged uterus causes, enlarged uterus symptoms, and lastly, the enlarged uterus treatment.
What is the enlarged uterus? Why do we need enlarged uterus treatment?
An enlarged uterus is generalized swelling of the uterine lining. This means that the uterus size is above the average size of a uterus. A woman’s uterus supports the fetus and provides it with food until it is born. The uterus is shaped like an inverted pear and is about the size of a fist. The standard dimensions of the uterus are about 7 to 8 centimeters by 7.5 centimeters. During pregnancy, the uterus can swell to accommodate the growing fetus.
Enlarged uterus symptoms
There is a list of common enlarged uterus symptoms:
- Heavy menstrual periods;
- Swelling;
- Abdominal pain during menstruation;
- Heaviness in the lower abdomen;
- Difficulty conceiving;
- Abortion or premature delivery;
- Swelling and cramps in the legs;
- Pain during sexual intercourse;
- Frequent urination;
- Acne;
- Excessive or unwanted hair growth;
- Constipation;
- Vaginal discharge;
- Weight gain;
- Hormonal changes;
- Infertility problems.
Enlarged uterus causes
In women of reproductive age, it may appear in the lower abdomen or pelvic region, while a bulky mass may be present. For this reason, women are recommended to undergo routine check-ups or call our specialists at the USA Fibroids Center.
Several factors can cause the enlargement of the uterus. The most common and well-known enlarged uterus causes are:
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that can cause the uterus to grow. It is diagnosed when a woman has irregular periods and bleeding during her menstrual cycle.
Ovarian cysts
Sometimes ovarian cysts never cause any symptoms. If they do, the cysts can trigger abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea; irregular menstruation; pelvic pain; enlarged uterus; Back pain; heavy menstrual bleeding; inflammation of the uterus.
Endometrial cancer
Uterine cancer can cause an enlarged uterus in older women. This is one of the symptoms of endometrial cancer that usually manifests itself early.
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids grow in the uterus. At the same time, some fibroids are so small that an average person cannot see them. Other fibroids are large enough to distort and enlarge the uterus so much that they reach into the rib cage and add weight.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a stage of fluctuating hormone levels before menopause. A woman’s uterus may enlarge during this period, but this enlargement is temporary, and her uterus will return to standard size when she enters menopause. Therefore, it is advisable to go to specialists if this situation occurs.
Diagnosis of the enlarged uterus
An enlarged uterus is usually first noticed during a routine pelvic exam or when visiting the doctor for irregular menstrual cycles. When the doctor detects it, she ensures it has not grown due to some malignant condition or pregnancy. A pregnancy test is performed to rule out pregnancy, and imaging tests are done to look for uterine complications.
Enlarged uterus and pregnancy complications
It is more frequent in women with infertility problems today. Many women wait until they are older to have children. An enlarged uterus caused by adenomyosis, or another cause, can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.
Adenomyosis impairs fertility, reducing the implantation and pregnancy rate in women undergoing IVF. Therefore, you should consult us for enlarged uterus treatment.
The enlarged uterus treatment depends on the woman’s symptoms. Some women become pregnant after taking hormones, but consulting may also be recommended if the woman does not become pregnant.
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