The major signs of an abnormal uterus include pain, unusual bleeding, and irregular cycles. While some of these symptoms could indicate serious conditions such as cancer or endometriosis, others might indicate pregnancy or a tipped uterus, both of which are not generally of medical concern. Anyone experiencing any symptoms of an abnormal uterus should consult a doctor to rule out any health concerns.
Pain is one of the most common symptoms of an abnormal uterus. It can range in intensity from mild to severe, and it can come in short bursts or gradual waves depending on the cause of the abnormal uterus. Conditions like endometriosis, in which the uterine lining begins to grow abnormally outside of the uterus, can cause severe cramping, pain during urination, general abdominal and back pain, and pain during sexual intercourse. This type of pain could also be experienced by those who have uterine cancer, but the pain associated with cancer can vary greatly. A prolapsed uterus, which has lost support from surrounding muscles and ligaments, can also cause pain.
Two less harmful conditions that could create pain in an otherwise healthy uterus are pregnancy and a tipped or retroverted uterus. Pregnancy stretches the uterus and surrounding ligaments, sometimes leading to round ligament pain, a type of pain in the right side of the pelvis that usually occurs in spasms. Additionally, pregnancy can cause back pain and pressure on the bladder. A tipped uterus can also sometimes be painful, but it is not generally considered unhealthy unless caused by another condition. Instead of tilting forward towards the front of the body, a tipped uterus tilts backward, which could sometimes cause mild pain, cramping, or pain during intercourse.
Unusual bleeding is another symptom of an abnormal uterus, and it could indicate a number of conditions, including endometriosis, cancer, irregular cycles, pregnancy, or miscarriage. Abnormal bleeding that grows in intensity is generally one of the most common signs of uterine or endometrial cancer, especially in postmenopausal women. For those of reproductive age, slight bleeding could indicate endometriosis or it could simply be the result of an irregular cycle, which could be caused by hormonal birth control, changes in diet or exercise, and several other factors.
Abnormal bleeding could also be the sign of a miscarriage, or it could indicate pregnancy.When the embryo implants itself in the uterine wall during the beginning of pregnancy, it can sometimes create light cramping and bleeding known as implantation bleeding. This is not generally a health concern, but if a woman experiences pain or abnormal bleeding she should consult her doctor or another health care professional.