Why Is My Uterus Enlarged? What Should I Do?
Uterine Size Issues and Their Consequences
I. What Causes Uterine Enlargement?
Uterine hypertrophy refers to a condition where the uterus enlarges uniformly, with the thickness of the uterine muscle layer exceeding 2.5cm, often accompanied by varying degrees of uterine bleeding. This condition can be caused by ovarian dysfunction, chronic incomplete uterine involution after childbirth, chronic inflammation, pelvic congestion, and vascular sclerosis of the uterine muscle layer. While there is no specific cure for uterine hypertrophy, treatment options such as traditional Chinese medicine and androgen therapy may be considered under the guidance of a treating doctor.
II. How to Address Uterine Enlargement?
Uterine enlargement is often caused by endogenous endometrial heterotopia, leading to adenomyosis. Clinical manifestations include progressively severe menstrual cramps, increased menstrual flow, and prolonged menstrual bleeding. This condition can also lead to infertility. Treatment options include the use of drugs like Dauphin, which can be used continuously for 3 to 6 months, potentially resulting in decreased menstrual flow or even amenorrhea. Another option is the placement of a Mirena intrauterine device, which mainly works by thinning the endometrium, thereby reducing menstrual flow and potentially achieving amenorrhea.
III. What Are the Risks Associated with a Slightly Enlarged Uterus?
A slightly enlarged uterus may simply be a result of individual differences and may not have significant effects on overall health or fertility. However, there can also be pathological reasons for uterine enlargement, such as common conditions like uterine fibroids. In cases where there is no apparent cause, detailed examination is necessary to determine the underlying pathology. Pathological enlargement can affect fertility, menstrual flow, and duration, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities. Screening for endocrine disorders, inflammation, and tumors is crucial to identify any abnormalities. Uterine enlargement can be influenced by both innate factors and disease states, and further examination is necessary to determine the specific cause. Both excessively large and small uteruses can potentially have adverse effects on women's health and fertility. When facing issues with uterine size, it is important to seek targeted treatment methods to gradually address the problem.