A uterus that is larger than a clenched fist is considered large. In some cases, it is a cause for concern, although it can also be considered normal for some women. It is difficult to feel or measure the uterus without being pregnant, which is why many women are not aware of their large uterus until their gynecologist mentions it after an exam. Pregnancy and menopause are two common and harmless causes of an enlarged uterus. Uterine fibroids and adenomyosis are two causes of this condition that are painful but treatable, while uterine cancer is the most serious reason for a large and unhealthy uterus.
Pregnancy is a common cause of a large uterus, because the uterus needs to grow with the fetus. A negative pregnancy test may indicate a recent miscarriage, especially if the woman has other symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding and cramping. In women approaching menopause, a large uterus can be expected as a result of changes in hormone levels. A hormonal imbalance can cause the body to assume that you are pregnant and allow the uterus to grow, at which point other symptoms of pregnancy may appear. While these causes of a large uterus may not be serious, women are advised to have an ultrasound to make sure nothing else could be causing the problem.
In some cases, the uterus is large due to a slightly more serious reason, such as uterine fibroids. These are growths that can cause excessive blood loss during menstruation, as well as pelvic pressure and pain in the uterus. Longer menstrual periods and difficulty urinating are other symptoms of uterine fibroids. Most women do not need treatment for fibroids unless blood loss causes anemia or a lower quality of life, at which point medication or a hysterectomy may be considered.
Adenomyosis is another possible cause of a large uterus. This is a condition in which the lining of the endometrium grows towards the outer wall of the uterus. The result is a thicker uterus that causes cramping, excessive bleeding during menstruation, and light bleeding between periods. It most commonly occurs in women who have had at least one child, are over the age of 30, and have had uterine surgery, such as a cesarean section. Birth control pills and a hysterectomy are two treatment options.
A large uterus can be a cause for concern, as it indicates a life-threatening condition such as uterine cancer. The most common type of uterine cancer is endometrial cancer, which affects the uterine lining. Cervical cancer, which affects the lower area of the uterus, is another type. The main symptom of uterine cancer is typically abnormal bleeding after menopause, but some women have no idea they have this condition until a doctor performs an exam.