Tipped Uterus - Frequently Asked Questions

The following are questions we are frequently asked regarding a tipped uterus.

Q: What other terms are used to describe a tipped uterus?

A: There are many alternate ways of referring to a tipped uterus. However, all of the terms mean that the uterus is tipped backwards toward the back of the pelvis.

Common alternatives include:

• retroflexed uterus
• tilted uterus
• backward uterus
• retroverted uterus
• tilted womb

Medical professionals may use the terms:

• uterine retroversion
• uterine retroflexion
• retroversion of the uterus
• symptomatic uterine retroversion
• symptomatic uterine reflexion
• uterine retrodisplacement
• reflexion of the uterus

Q: How does a uterus become tipped, retroverted or retroflexed?

A: A woman can have a tipped uterus for a number of reasons:

• As a woman matures, the uterus usually shifts from a tilted position to a mildly forward position. However, sometimes this movement does not occur and the uterus remains tipped back.
• Pregnancy can also cause the uterus to shift to a tilted state. If the ligaments holding the uterus in place stretch, or lose their tension during pregnancy, the uterus can become tipped or retroverted. In most cases, the uterus returns to a forward position after childbirth. But sometimes it remains in the tipped position.
• Scarring from adhesions as a result of endometriosis, surgery or fibroids can also cause the uterus to shift to a tilted or retroflexed state. Sometimes, a uterine suspension is used in conjunction with treatments for endometriosis to prevent the formation of adhesions after surgery.

Q: Can a pessary be used to treat a tipped uterus instead of having a surgical procedure?

A: " Yes and no." Because insertion of a pessary can lead to vaginal infections and restrains one from regular intercourse, it is generally considered a temporary solution for pelvic pain resulting from a tipped uterus. Also, a pessary typically makes intercourse painful for the male partner.

So "yes", a pessary may relieve your pain but "no" because it can cause other undesirable side affects as well.

Q: Can a tipped uterus prevent me from getting pregnant?

A: A tipped uterus is typically only thought to be problematic after all other possible reasons for fertility problems have been investigated and ruled out. If there is no other explanation for your fertility problems a uterine suspension may be recommended by your doctor.