Many women may not give much thought to their uterus until they start to feel something is wrong. For some, an enlarged uterus is an unnoticeable issue, but for others, it can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms that can interfere with your daily life. You may feel a heaviness in the pelvic area, suffer from unusual bleeding or go to the bathroom more frequently than usual. These changes can be confusing, causing discomfort and leaving you unsure of what is going on inside your body. We spoke to Dr Indrani Salunkhe, Obstetrician-Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Central Mumbai , to explain the causes and treatments of an enlarged uterus, which are important for those who suffer from these symptoms.
Recognizing the Symptoms of an Enlarged Uterine
Uterine hypertrophy is when the uterus is larger than normal, usually due to an underlying health problem.
“The expanding uterus can cause a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area, so common symptoms include pelvic pain or pressure,” says Dr. Salunke. “Menstrual irregularities, such as increased menstrual flow, longer periods, and bleeding outside of menstrual periods, are also commonly reported.”
Additionally, the uterus may press on the bladder, causing frequent urination, and pressure on the intestines, causing abdominal bloating and constipation. Lower back pain is another common symptom caused by pressure on nearby structures such as the spine.
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Causes of uterine enlargement
There are several causes for an enlarged uterus. Here are some reasons cited by experts:
Uterine muscle swelling
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors in the uterus and are the most common cause. These tumors vary in size and number, which contribute to the growth of the tumor. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health (OWH), 20-80% of women will develop uterine fibroids by age 50. These tumors are most common in women in their 40s and early 50s.
Endometriosis
“Adenomyosis is another condition that can lead to uterine enlargement. Endometrial tissue grows in the wall of the uterus, causing it to thicken and enlarge. Women with adenomyosis often suffer from pelvic pain and severe menstrual bleeding, which can have a serious impact on their quality of life,” adds Dr Salunke.
Endometrial cancer
In some cases, endometrial cancer can cause the uterus to enlarge, indicating the presence of cancer cells in the lining of the uterus. Although this disease is less common than uterine fibroids or endometriosis, it is still a serious condition that requires immediate attention and treatment.
During pregnancy
During pregnancy, the uterus naturally expands to accommodate the growing fetus. This expansion is a normal and healthy part of pregnancy, but it’s important for women to distinguish between normal pregnancy-related changes and potential health problems.
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Treatment of uterine enlargement
Treatment for uterine enlargement varies greatly depending on the underlying cause.
- For uterine fibroids and endometriosis, doctors may recommend medication, hormone therapy, or surgery such as a myomectomy or hysterectomy for more severe conditions.
- Less invasive procedures such as uterine artery embolization may also be effective in relieving symptoms.
- For cancer, treatment typically includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Conclusion
Dr Salunke concludes, “An enlarged uterus can cause a variety of symptoms and may be indicative of underlying health issues that require attention. Women who are experiencing unusual symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding or frequent urination should not hesitate to consult a medical professional. Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial in controlling the symptoms and preventing complications. It is essential to consult a medical professional if you experience any unusual symptoms.”
[ Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by experts and is for informational purposes only. Therefore, we recommend that you consult a specialist if you have any health problems to avoid any complications. ]
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