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Retroversion of the uterus - Symptom

Alternative Names

Uterus retroversion; Malposition of the uterus; Tipped uterus

Symptoms:

Retroversion of the uterus almost never causes any symptoms.

Rarely, it may cause pain or discomfort.

Signs and tests:

A pelvic examination reveals the position of the uterus. However, a tipped uterus can sometimes be mistaken for a pelvic mass or an enlarging fibroid. A rectovaginal exam may be used to distinguish between a mass and a retroverted uterus.

An ultrasound examination can be used to determine the exact position of the uterus, if necessary.

Female reproductive anatomy

Uterus

Reviewed last on: 10/28/2008
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington ; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Lentz GM. Differential diagnosis of major gynecologic problems by age group: vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pelvic mass. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2007:chap 8.

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