The uterus, or womb, is where a fetus grows during pregnancy. Uterine diseases are conditions that affect it. They can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer), and they may affect menstrual periods, the ability to get pregnant, or the health of the reproductive organs.
Common types
| Condition | What happens |
|---|---|
| Adenomyosis | tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into its outer walls |
| Cervicitis | swelling or inflammation of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus |
| Endometrial hyperplasia | an overgrowth of normal cells inside the uterus |
| Endometriosis | tissue like the uterine lining grows in other places in the body |
| Uterine prolapse | the uterus drops into the vagina because the pelvic muscles have weakened — which can happen after several vaginal births, at menopause, or because of obesity |
Causes
Many things can cause uterine disease, including hormonal imbalances, thyroid problems, fibroids, polyps, cancer, infection and pregnancy.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the condition. Often the first sign of a problem is abnormal bleeding — between periods, very heavy, or lasting much longer than usual. Other symptoms can include bleeding after sex and pelvic pain.
Diagnosis
To find the cause, your health care provider may:
- ask about your symptoms and medical history;
- do a pelvic exam;
- order blood tests or imaging;
- take a biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and may include pain medicine, hormone therapy or surgery. Your provider will work with you to choose the best option.
Sources
Based on "Uterine Diseases," MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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