What Is A Retroverted Uterus?

The normal position of the uterus is directed forward in the pelvis but when the uterus tilts backwards rather than forwards, the condition is known as retroversion of uterus. This is a normal variation of pelvic anatomy and is often seen in one in five women all over the world. It is a well-known tact that a retroverted uterus is commonly caused by genetic reasons, Sometimes, this condition can occur due to the weakening of the pelvic ligament as ¡t is mainly responsible for the anteversion of the uterus.

Weakening of ligaments can occur during menopause due to the lack of ovarian hormones especially estrogens. Also, some tumours of the uterus like fibroids, because of their size, can alter the position of the uterus. Other conditions like scar tissue in the pelvis (pelvic adhesions due to pelvic surgeries), endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory diseases can also lead to retroversion of the uterus.

Women with a retroverted uterus are usually asymptomatic and it is often an incidental diagnosis. In some patients, this condition may cause pain or discomfort mainly dysmenorrhoea or dyspareunia but does not require surgical treatment to correct the condition. Rare symptoms include lower back pain, urinary tract infection and infertility problems. And there is no way to prevent this problem from occurring.

Retroverted Gravid Uterus

Usually between the lOth-l2th week of pregnancy, the uterus enlarges and spontaneously corrects its position. At times, a retroverted uterus during pregnancy can give rise to some symptoms of pain in the abdomen, backache, urinary symptoms frequency, dysuria, sensation of Incomplete voiding, dribbling and retention. However, it is rarely a reason for miscarriage.

Myths And Facts

Myth	Fact
Causes infertility	No, it does not interfere with the ability to conceive.
Leads To Abortions	No, there is no scientific data to suggest that it causes abortions.
Normal Labour Not Possible	No, women with a retroverted uterus can easily have normal labour as after three months of pregnancy, the uterus is an abdominal organ and the problem of retroversion gets corrected.

When the uterus is entrapped in the pelvis during a pregnancy, it is called an incarcerated gravid uterus and can present itself with pain and retention of urine, It occurs in one in 3000 to one in 10000 pregnancies and in this situation, one needs immediate medical attention. Retroverted uterus is quite a common disease. This is not a life-threatening condition, so one should not worry too much when being diagnosed with a retroverted uterus.