Fibroids are small lumps that can weigh up to several pounds. They are found along the walls of the uterus. Department of Health and Human Services, between 20 or 80 percent of women develop fibroids before the age of They are most common in women who are in their 40s and early 50s. Fibroids also put pressure on the bladder and the rectum, causing frequent urination and rectal pressure.
If they get too big, fibroids may cause the uterus to become enlarged. Adenomyosis is a noncancerous condition that mimics symptoms of fibroids. It results in the lining of the uterus becoming embedded directly in the muscle wall of the uterus. During the menstrual cycle, the cells of the muscle bleed, causing pain and swelling.
The adenomyoma is the swollen part of the uterine wall. Upon examination, the adenomyoma feels like a fibroid, and it may even be confused with one on an ultrasound. Adenomyosis may not cause any symptoms. In other severe cases, it can lead to heavy bleeding and cramping during menstruation. One study of women reported in the medical journal Human Reproduction found that adenomyosis was present in approximately 20 percent of participants.
However, all participants in the study had attended a gynecology clinic with existing symptoms. It is possible, then, that the prevalence of adenomyosis is higher in the general population. Polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS also causes an enlarged uterus. It is the result of hormonal imbalances in menstruation and the shedding of the endometrial lining of the uterus.
It affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age, according to the OWH. The body typically sheds the endometrial lining during the menstrual cycle, but in some women, the lining is not entirely discarded and interferes with their monthly cycle. The accumulation of the endometrial lining causes inflammation and enlargement of the uterus.
The NCI estimates there will be 61, new cases in One of the symptoms of endometrial cancer is an enlarged uterus, although it can also be an indicator of advanced stage cancer. Perimenopause, which is the stage before a woman enters menopause , is another cause of uterine enlargement and is due to fluctuating hormone levels. Fibroids are tumors that can grow inside and outside the uterus. Hormonal fluctuations or genetics may contribute to the development of these growths.
Department of Health and Human Services , up to 80 percent of women have experienced fibroids by the time they turn Others can grow so large that they weigh several pounds and can enlarge the uterus to such an extent that you may look several months pregnant. For example, in a case report published in , a woman with fibroids was found to have a uterus weighing 6 pounds. Adenomyosis is a condition in which the uterine lining, called the endometrium, grows into the uterine wall. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but adenomyosis is tied to estrogen levels.
Most women see a resolution of their symptoms after menopause. The symptoms are similar to those of fibroids and include:. Women may also notice tenderness and swelling in their lower abdomen. Women with adenomyosis can have a uterus that is double or triple its normal size. Cancers of the uterus, endometrium , and cervix can all produce tumors.
Depending on the size of the tumors, your uterus can swell. An enlarged uterus is usually found incidentally. For example, your doctor may identify an enlarged uterus during a routine pelvic exam as part of a well-woman checkup. It may also be identified if your doctor is treating you for other symptoms, like abnormal menstruation.
If your uterus in enlarged because of pregnancy, it will naturally begin to shrink after you deliver. By one week postpartum, your uterus will be reduced to half its size. Fibroids that are large enough to stretch the uterus will probably need some kind of medical treatment.
Your doctor may prescribe birth control drugs , such as birth control pills that contain estrogen and progesterone or a progesterone-only device like an IUD. Birth control medication may halt the growth of the fibroids and limit menstrual bleeding.
Another treatment, known as uterine artery embolization, uses a thin tube inserted into the uterus to inject small particles into the arteries of the uterus. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs found inside or on the surface of the ovaries. They are common in women who have regular periods and usually form during ovulation. That's the time of the month when one of your ovaries releases an egg. Most cysts are small and don't cause any problems.
They usually disappear by themselves, but if they don't and grow too large, they can cause an enlarged uterus. The most common cause is hormonal problems. Ovarian cysts can cause pain in the lower abdomen and back, heavy bleeding, and difficulty urinating. Besides pregnancy, several medical conditions can cause an enlarged uterus. Most are not life-threatening.
Two common causes are fibroids, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome, and adenomyosis. Endometrial cancer is a more serious cause. Except for cancer, an enlarged uterus itself typically doesn't cause serious complications.
Still, the condition that caused your uterus to become swollen can cause other health issues and affect your quality of life. These conditions can cause:. See your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, pressure on your bladder or bowels, pain in your pelvic area, or pain during sex. Treatment depends on the condition that caused your enlarged uterus. If you have:.
Heavy bleeding: Your doctor may prescribe hormonal treatments unless you're trying to get pregnant. Birth control pills, shots, and other methods containing progesterone can reduce bleeding. This also helps treat anemia. Fibroids: Depending on the size, you may only need monitoring and pain medication.
Your doctor may prescribe birth control or another hormonal therapy called gonadotropin-releasing hormone GnRH. GnRH is used for six months or less to stop the bleeding and shrink fibroids. If your fibroids grow too large, you may need surgery to remove them.
Adenomyosis: Your doctor may prescribe birth control or hormonal therapies to reduce heavy bleeding. In severe cases, your doctor might recommend a hysterectomy or removal of your uterus. Ovarian cysts: Like fibroids, ovarian cysts usually don't need treatment. Your doctor may prescribe birth control pills. Ovarian cysts rarely cause cancer. In severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery.
Surgery is usually recommended if ovarian cysts develop after menopause. Birth control pills can help regulate your periods, treat acne, and lessen unwanted hair growth. They can also reduce your risk of endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer : Treatment depends on how advanced your cancer is. Surgeons usually remove the uterus, fallopian tubes , and ovaries.
If your cancer has spread, surgeons may remove lymph nodes too. Your doctor may also prescribe chemotherapy and radiation. The condition usually doesn't require treatment. However, the underlying problems that caused your uterus to become swollen can lead to other health issues. Heavy, painful periods can make you miss work. Fear of bleeding through your clothes can make you skip outings with friends and family. Pain during sex can ruin your mood and make you lose interest.
If you want to have a baby, some of these conditions can hurt your fertility or cause pregnancy complications. That's why it's a good idea to see your doctor and get relief so you can lead a happier and fuller life. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Large uterus: what is the limit for a laparoscopic approach?
Autops Case Rep. Davis E, Sparzak PB. Abnormal uterine bleeding dysfunctional uterine bleeding. In: StatPearls. Updated August 2, Experience of symptoms and disease impact in patients with adenomyosis. The impact of adenomyosis on women's fertility. Obstet Gynecol Surv. Cleveland Clinic. Uterine fibroids. Last reviewed August 24, Overview of latest evidence on uterine fibroids.
Nurs Womens Health. Uterine fibroids: current perspectives.
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