Uterine Disorders
The uterus plays a vital role in conception, implantation, and carrying a pregnancy to term. When structural or functional abnormalities affect the uterus, they can interfere with fertility, cause menstrual irregularities, or lead to recurrent pregnancy loss.
Understanding Uterine Disorders
Uterine disorders refer to abnormalities in the shape, structure, or lining of the uterus. Some women may be born with uterine anomalies, while others develop conditions over time due to hormonal changes, inflammation, or growths like fibroids and polyps.
While not all uterine conditions cause symptoms, many can impact fertility or lead to complications during pregnancy. That’s why early detection and treatment are essential.
- Learn more about abnormal uterine anomalies.
- Learn More about the treatment of abnormal pap smears.
Common Uterine Disorders
Uterine Anomalies (Congenital Uterine Malformations)
These are structural differences in the uterus that are present from birth and result from abnormal development of the Müllerian ducts during fetal life.
Types include:
- Septate uterus: A fibrous or muscular band divides the uterine cavity, often associated with miscarriage.
- Bicornuate uterus: The uterus has two horns or chambers, which may affect implantation or lead to preterm labor.
- Unicornuate uterus: Only one side of the uterus develops; it is associated with a higher risk of miscarriage and complications.
- Didelphys uterus: Two separate uterine cavities, sometimes with two cervices and/or vaginal septum.
Symptoms may include:
- Painful periods
- Difficulty conceiving
- Recurrent miscarriage
- Premature delivery
- Or no symptoms at all
Diagnosis and treatment:
- Diagnosed via ultrasound, hysterosalpingography (HSG), or MRI
- Correctable via minimally invasive surgery in many cases (e.g., hysteroscopic septum resection)
Uterine Polyps (Endometrial Polyps)
These are small, soft growths that form on the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium).
Causes and risk factors:
- Linked to hormonal imbalances, especially high estrogen levels
- More common in women in their 30s to 50s, or those with obesity or high blood pressure
Symptoms may include:
- Irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Spotting between periods
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Recurrent miscarriage
Diagnosis and treatment:
- Diagnosed through transvaginal ultrasound, hysterosonography, or hysteroscopy
- Treated by surgical removal via hysteroscopic polypectomy
- Removal may improve fertility outcomes and reduce miscarriage risk
Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas or Myomas)
Fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterine muscle tissue and are one of the most common uterine conditions.
Types include:
- Submucosal fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity, often affecting fertility
- Intramural fibroids: Grow within the uterine wall
- Subserosal fibroids: Grow on the outer wall of the uterus
Symptoms may include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination or constipation
- Difficulty getting pregnant or maintaining pregnancy
Diagnosis::
- Diagnosed by pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, or hysteroscopy
Treatment options include:
- Medications to manage symptoms
- Minimally invasive surgery (myomectomy)
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE)
- Removal may improve implantation and reduce miscarriage rates
- Learn more about uterine fibroids.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.
Causes and theories:
- The exact cause is unknown, but retrograde menstruation, immune dysfunction, and genetics may contribute
Symptoms may include:
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during intercourse or bowel movements
- Infertility (30–50% of women with endometriosis struggle to conceive)
Diagnosis:
- Diagnosed through pelvic exams, imaging, or laparoscopy
Treatment includes:
- Pain management with hormonal therapy
- Laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial implants
- IVF may be recommended for moderate to severe cases affecting fertility
Diagnosis at NCCRM
We offer a full range of diagnostic tools to evaluate uterine health, including:
- Transvaginal and 3D ultrasound
- Sonohysterography
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
- Diagnostic hysteroscopy
- Laparoscopy when necessary
Each evaluation is tailored to your medical history and symptoms to determine the most accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Treating Uterine Disorders to Support Fertility
At NCCRM, our goal is to treat uterine conditions that may be impacting your fertility or causing symptoms that disrupt your quality of life. Treatment can dramatically improve your chances of conceiving and reduce the risk of miscarriage or complications during pregnancy.
Many of our surgical treatments are minimally invasive, with short recovery times and high success rates. We’ll guide you through your options, whether you are preparing for natural conception or fertility treatments like IUI or IVF.
