Did you know that up to 70-80% of women will develop uterine fibroids by the time they turn 50? Many women may not realize they have a bulky uterus until it is detected during a routine pelvic check-up.
From heavy menstrual bleeding and chronic pelvic pain to fertility issues, anaemia, urinary problems, or even uterine cancer, a bulky uterus, which fibroids or Adenomyosis often causes, can lead to severe complications for all age groups.
The causes of a bulky uterus can be many, and the victims can be anyone. So, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for reproductive health. With inputs from a leading female gynaecologist from Mumbai, Dr. Neelima Mantri, let us take a closer look at this medical condition.
What is a Bulky Uterus?
The uterus is a small, muscular organ crucial for nurturing and supporting a foetus until birth. A bulky or enlarged uterus is when the uterus grows more significant than its standard size (about 8 x 5 x 4 cm). This can be normal during pregnancy, but if it happens outside pregnancy for no particular reason, it can cause symptoms like lower abdominal heaviness, severe pain, and bleeding and needs medical attention.
Common Symptoms of Bulky Uterus:
The symptoms associated with a bulky uterus can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:
- Abnormalities in the menstrual cycle
- Heavy bleeding and pelvic cramping
- Swelling and cramping in the legs
- Pressure on the uterus and surrounding organs
- Backaches
- Bleeding after menopause
- Vaginal discharge
- Frequent and urgent urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Excessive bleeding during periods leading to anaemia
- Weight gain around the lower abdomen
- Swelling or mass in the lower abdomen
- Acne
- Excessive hair growth
- Breast tenderness
- Constipation
- Pale skin and general weakness
So what causes a bulky uterus that leads to severe and painful symptoms, as above? Let us find out:
What are the common Causes of a Bulky Uterus?
It is essential to understand the reasons behind a bulky uterus. Below are a few typical reasons:
- Fibroids (Leiomyoma/Fibromyoma)
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop within the uterine wall. They can vary in size from small nodules to large masses, causing symptoms such as:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Bleeding between periods (metrorrhagia)
- Presence of a firm mass in the pelvic region
- Lower back pain
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue, which usually lines the uterus, grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. Symptoms include:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Abdominal pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting reproductive-age women, characterized by:
- Infertility
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain around the abdomen
- Excess hair growth on the chest, stomach, and face
- Dark skin patches on the neck, under the breasts, and in the armpits
- Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer refers to the spite of the uterine lining, typically affecting postmenopausal women. Symptoms may include
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Other Causes
- Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that develop within or on the surface of the ovaries.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels.
- Menopause: Transition period leading to hormonal changes and potential uterine enlargement.
- Pregnancy: The uterus naturally enlarges during pregnancy to accommodate fetal growth.
Treatment Options for a Bulky Uterus:
Treatment for a bulky uterus aims to manage symptoms and address the underlying cause. Treatment options include:
- Medications:Hormonal therapies or pain relievers are prescribed to manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
- Lifestyle Changes:Incorporating stress management techniques, regular exercise, and dietary adjustments to support overall health.
- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE):A minimally invasive procedure to block blood flow to uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink.
- Surgery:Surgical interventions like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended in severe cases or when fertility is not a concern.
- Consulting a Specialist:If you are planning to conceive a child, relying on hormonal contraceptives or an IUD will not be effective. Some conditions as mentioned above, such as fibroids, PCOS, and Adenomyosis, all have some risk associated with fertility problems. Seek medical advisor help to cure bulky uterus-related problems.
A bulky uterus is a medical condition that can lead to various symptoms. If you have been experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is essential to consult a gynaecologist as soon as possible. Beginning treatment early improves outcomes and helps you avoid complications with utmost efficiency. If you are in Mumbai and are looking for treatment for a bulky uterus condition, Dr. Neelima Mantri is the best female gynaecologist in Mumbai with an exceptional track record in treating bulky uterus conditions.