Uterine Disorders

Uterine disorders are medical conditions that affect the structure or function of the uterus (womb). The uterus plays a key role in menstruation, fertility, and pregnancy, so any disorder can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive and overall health.

Some uterine disorders cause pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, infertility, or pregnancy complications, while others may be silent and discovered during routine exams.

Common Uterine Disorders

1. Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)

Non-cancerous growths made of muscle and fibrous tissue that form in or around the uterus.

• Common in women of reproductive age
• Can vary in size from small nodules to large masses

Symptoms:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination or constipation
• Back pain
• Infertility or pregnancy complications (in some cases)

Diagnosis: Pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI
Treatment: Medication, hormonal therapy, myomectomy, uterine artery embolization, or hysterectomy (in severe cases)

2. Endometriosis

A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus—on ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, or pelvic lining.

• Affects fertility and causes chronic pain
• Often underdiagnosed

Symptoms:

• Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
• Pain during sex or bowel movements
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Infertility
• Fatigue or nausea

Diagnosis: Pelvic exam, ultrasound, laparoscopy (definitive)
Treatment: Pain relievers, hormonal therapy, laparoscopy to remove lesions, lifestyle changes, and fertility counseling

3. Adenomyosis

Occurs when the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) breaks through the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium).

• Common in women aged 35–50

Symptoms:

• Heavy or painful periods
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Enlarged, tender uterus

Diagnosis: Pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI
Treatment: Pain relief, hormonal therapy, or hysterectomy for severe cases

4. Uterine Polyps

Small, soft growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus.

• Usually benign but can affect fertility or cause abnormal bleeding

Symptoms:

• Irregular or heavy periods
• Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
• Infertility (in some women)

Diagnosis: Transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy
Treatment: Polypectomy (removal), hormone therapy

5. Asherman’s Syndrome

Scar tissue inside the uterus, often due to surgery (e.g., D&C).

• Can lead to irregular or absent periods and infertility

Symptoms:

• Light or absent menstruation
• Recurrent miscarriage or infertility

Diagnosis: Hysteroscopy
Treatment: Surgical removal of scar tissue and hormone therapy

Causes and Risk Factors

• Hormonal imbalances (estrogen dominance)
• Family history of uterine conditions
• Age (fibroids and adenomyosis more common after 30)
• Obesity or poor nutrition
• Reproductive history (number of pregnancies or surgeries)
• Inflammation or infections (e.g., PID)
• Autoimmune or genetic conditions

Diagnosis

Uterine disorders are diagnosed through:

• Pelvic examination
• Ultrasound (transabdominal or transvaginal)
• MRI or CT scan
• Hysteroscopy (camera inserted into uterus)
• Laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery for endometriosis)
• Biopsy or Pap test (to rule out cancer)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific condition, symptoms, and whether fertility needs to be preserved.

Non-Surgical Options:

• Pain relievers (NSAIDs) for symptom relief
• Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, IUDs, GnRH analogues
• Lifestyle changes: Healthy weight, stress management, anti-inflammatory diet

Surgical Options:

• Myomectomy – removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus
• Laparoscopy – for endometriosis or scar tissue
• Hysteroscopic surgery – for polyps or small fibroids
• Hysterectomy – complete removal of the uterus (for severe or unresponsive cases)

Impact on Fertility

Many uterine disorders—especially fibroids, endometriosis, polyps, and Asherman’s syndrome—can affect a woman’s ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, fertility can often be restored.

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Uterine Health?

Aster Hospitals provides specialized gynecological care with an emphasis on early diagnosis, fertility preservation, and minimally invasive treatments. Our expert team of gynecologists, reproductive endocrinologists, radiologists, and surgeons work together to offer comprehensive, patient-centered care. Using advanced imaging and diagnostic tools, we ensure accurate evaluation of conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and adenomyosis. We specialize in laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgeries that minimize recovery time while maximizing outcomes. Our care extends beyond treatment, offering fertility counseling, reproductive support, and a holistic approach that integrates medicine, nutrition, and emotional wellness to support every woman’s health journey.