Enlarged Uterus
The uterus is a tiny, muscular female reproductive organ that maintains and feeds the fetus until it is ready for delivery. The term "enlarged uterus" refers to a condition in which the uterus is larger than it should be. This disorder is uncommon, but if not treated promptly, it can be dangerous and have impact on women's fertility. A swollen uterus can be a sign of many medical disorders, including pregnancy, uterine fibroids, and adenomyosis. It affects one out of every ten women of reproductive age. While hysterectomy was often the only option for many disorders, there are now minimally invasive procedures that protect the uterus and improve the quality of life.
Enlarged Uterus Causes
Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis is a condition in which cells from the uterine lining (the endometrium) migrate into the uterine muscular wall (the myometrium). During each menstrual cycle, these relocated endometrial cells continue to conduct their normal duties within the muscle wall, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. In response to the irritation, the surrounding muscle expands and develops fibrous tissue. Because of the discomfort associated with adenomyosis, you may need to seek treatment for an enlarged uterus.
Fibroids
Fibroids are a condition in which normal uterus muscle cells grow abnormally, resulting in fast-growing smooth muscle tumors. Enlarged uterus treatment can be beneficial, especially when tumors grow to the size of a pear or even watermelon. Multiple fibroids in and on the uterus can occur in a woman, and depending on their position and size, the fibroids might cause an enlarged uterus.
Pregnancy
The uterus grows 500 to 1,000 times its normal size during pregnancy. This is completely normal, and your doctor is unlikely to recommend enlarged uterus treatment for pregnancy.
Enlarged Uterus Symptoms
Many women have no signs of an enlarged uterus. Often, it is discovered during a routine pelvic exam by their doctor.
The most prevalent symptom in women is severe bleeding during their periods. This is characterized as soaking for several hours through a pad or tampon every hour or two. Pain, extended periods, or spotting between periods are all possibilities for women. Large blood clots may also be passed.
In addition, your uterus is located in your pelvis, between your bladder and rectum. When it swells, it can impair the operation of these organs.
Researchers have identified some symptoms that women with an enlarged uterus may experience. They are:
- Pain in the lower abdomen, legs, back, or pelvis, as well as pain while having sex.
- Constipation, bloating, and gas are caused by pressure on the pelvic and bowels.
- Anemia is caused by fatigue or weakness because of excessive bleeding.
- Frequent urination or incontinence (inability to contain urine) because of bladder pressure.
- Weight gain around the belly
- Pregnancy issues, such as trouble getting pregnant and bringing the baby to term
Enlarged Uterus Complications
However, an enlarged uterus does not create any health problems, the disorders that cause it can. Besides the pain and discomfort that fibroids cause, these uterine tumors can impair fertility and create pregnancy and birthing difficulties.
Diagnosis
Many women are unaware that they have an enlarged uterus. This problem is usually discovered by a clinician during a physical checkup or through imaging studies.
In most circumstances, an enlarged uterus is a benign condition that does not necessitate treatment unless the patient is experiencing severe symptoms and suffering.
Enlarged Uterus Treatment
Most causes of an enlarged uterus do not require treatment, though some women may require pain medication. Birth control tablets and progesterone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs) can alleviate the symptoms of excessive menstrual bleeding.
Some women may require a hysterectomy in severe instances.
With uterine cancer, surgical removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries may be suggested. Women may be subjected to chemotherapy and radiation after surgery.
