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McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2
Illustration
Tipped Uterus
A tipped uterus is a common condition that occurs in about
20% of women. In this discussion you will learn what a
tipped uterus is and what may cause it.
What is a tipped uterus?
A tipped uterus is a condition in which the uterus is tipped
backward and downward (retroverted). The uterus is the
muscular organ at the top of the vagina. Babies develop in
the uterus, and menstrual blood comes from the uterus. In
most women, the uterus is tilted upward and forward. A
tipped uterus is a normal variation.
How does it occur?
You may have a tipped uterus because your uterus stayed in
its retroverted position, which is usual in infancy, instead
of moving forward as you matured.
The position of your uterus also can change after
childbirth--either tipping forward or backward.
Less commonly, a tipped uterus is caused by disease, such as
a tumor, or scarring from endometriosis or infection.
What are the symptoms?
Most women have no symptoms at all.
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will be able to feel the backward position of
your uterus when you have a pelvic examination.
How is it treated?
No treatment is necessary usually.
If disease is the suspected cause of your tipped uterus,
your doctor may advise you to have a laparoscopy. This is a
procedure in which your doctor inserts a small telescope
into your abdomen to look inside at your organs.
How long will the effects of tipped uterus last?
Your uterus will probably remain tipped backward and cause
no problems. If necessary, it can be corrected with
surgery.
If you become pregnant, your uterus will probably tip
forward and right itself and you will have a normal
delivery. Often the uterus reverts back after your
delivery.
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