An enlarged uterus can occur for several reasons, with being a common cause. Many women first notice symptoms such as pelvic pressure, bloating, or changes in their menstrual cycle. In contrast, others may only learn about an enlarged or swollen uterus during a routine exam.
Most women associate an enlarged uterus with pregnancy, but that’s not the only reason your uterus can expand. Large or multiple fibroids can also cause an enlarged uterus. When fibroids reach the size of an avocado or larger, they can cause bloating, pelvic pressure, heavy bleeding, weight gain, and a protruding abdomen that can be noticeable. Since there are a few different conditions that can cause a swollen uterus, understanding the reasons for an enlarged uterus can help you seek care so that you receive the proper treatment.
Symptoms of an Enlarged Uterus
Symptoms of an enlarged uterus can vary widely depending on the underlying cause. Some women experience minimal discomfort, while others struggle with persistent pain or significant abdominal changes.
A few common enlarged uterus symptoms include:
- Abdominal discomfort, such as bloating
- A feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
- Changes in menstrual flow
- Urinary symptoms
- Visible abdominal protrusion
- Weight gain
An enlarged or swollen uterus can be a symptom of fibroids, as larger ones can make your stomach stick out. If fibroids are the cause, an enlarged uterus may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heavy bleeding. Regardless of the reason, if any symptoms are bothersome or worsening, seek medical care to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
What Causes an Enlarged Uterus?
Fibroids are among the most common causes of an enlarged uterus, but several conditions can lead to the uterus swelling as one of the symptoms. Some of these conditions are benign and manageable, while others may require urgent medical attention.
Common Causes of an Enlarged Uterus
Enlarged uterus causes can result from a range of health conditions, including:
- Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus. Large or multiple fibroids can significantly increase the size of the uterus.
- Adenomyosis: This condition results from endometrial tissue growing into the uterine wall, causing swelling, pain, and heavy bleeding.
- Endometrial Cancer: A rare but serious health condition that requires immediate medical assessment.
- Pregnancy: Naturally causes the uterus to expand as the baby grows.
- Ovarian Cysts: Large cysts may compress or distort the uterus, causing swelling or enlargement.
Since there are multiple causes of a swollen uterus, the best way to determine what is causing your symptoms is to consult a medical professional, such as a fibroid specialist, for a complete evaluation.
Diagnosis of an Enlarged Uterus
Diagnosing an enlarged uterus typically begins with a fibroid specialist reviewing your medical history by assessing your symptoms, menstrual patterns, and any prior diagnoses that may indicate underlying conditions. Afterward, the specialist will perform a physical exam to check for pelvic swelling, tenderness, or changes in uterine size.
If any swelling or tenderness is found, imaging tests are used to confirm the cause of the enlargement. A pelvic ultrasound is the most common method for detecting fibroids, adenomyosis, and other abnormalities.
In more complex cases, an MRI may be recommended for detailed imaging or treatment planning. If there is concern for cancer or precancerous changes, a biopsy may be performed.
Should I Be Worried About an Enlarged Uterus?
An enlarged uterus always warrants evaluation from a doctor, even if symptoms are mild. You should seek prompt medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Abnormal bleeding
- Rapid abdominal growth
- Unexplained weight gain
- Symptoms affecting your bladder or bowel
Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and ensures the right treatment plan. Scheduling a consultation with a specialist from USA Fibroid Centers is the first step in getting a diagnosis and treatment for the causes of an enlarged uterus.
Treatment for an Enlarged Uterus
Treating an enlarged uterus mainly depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. When fibroids are responsible, minimally invasive procedures like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can offer significant relief without surgery.
UFE works by blocking the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. As fibroids shrink, many patients experience improvement in common enlarged-uterus symptoms such as pelvic pressure, bloating, heavy bleeding, and frequent urination. Because UFE is non-surgical and preserves the uterus, it can be an appealing alternative to more invasive options like hysterectomy for patients who qualify.
How USA Fibroid Centers Can Help
USA Fibroid Centers specializes in diagnosing and treating uterine fibroids, which can cause an enlarged uterus. Our specialists are experts in UFE, a non-surgical option that helps relieve fibroid symptoms.
We have clinics nationwide for accessible treatment from our experts who will create a personalized care plan based on your needs. USA Fibroid Centers is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC).
Schedule a consultation online to visit one of our clinics and start treating your enlarged uterus symptoms today.
FAQs About an Enlarged or Swollen Uterus
Can an enlarged uterus affect fertility?
Fibroids that cause an enlarged uterus can affect fertility, especially submucosal fibroids. These fibroids can alter the cervix, distort the uterine cavity, block the fallopian tubes, or reduce the chances of embryo implantation.
What happens if an enlarged uterus is left untreated?
An untreated enlarged uterus can cause symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowels, to worsen. Exact symptoms depend on what is causing the swollen uterus.
Do you need a hysterectomy for an enlarged uterus?
You do not need a hysterectomy to treat an enlarged uterus that is caused by fibroids. Non-surgical treatments like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can shrink fibroids, reducing symptoms associated with these growths.
Can an enlarged uterus make you weigh more?
An enlarged uterus can make you weigh more. Any large fibroids within the uterus can make you appear or feel heavier, even without significant weight gain.