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Retroversion of the uterus

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Definition:

Retroversion of the uterus is a normal variation of female pelvic anatomy in which the body of the uterus is tipped toward the back rather than forward.

Alternative Names:

Uterus retroversion; Malposition of the uterus; Tipped uterus

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Retroversion of the uterus is common and is found to be the normal uterine position in about 20% of all women. Laxness of the supporting pelvic ligaments associated with menopause may cause retroversion in women who previously did not have a retroverted uterus.

Enlargement of the uterus, either as the result of a pregnancy or a tumor , may also change the relative position of the uterus within the pelvis. Pelvic adhesions (scar tissue that forms in the pelvis) resulting from salpingitis , pelvic inflammatory disease , or endometriosis have also been associated with holding the uterus in a retroflexed position.

• Review Date: 11/8/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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