What are the causes and treatment options for a swollen uterus?

Hello,

If your sister has been told that her uterus is swollen and that an operation may be required, the exact cause of the swelling needs to be identified first. A “swollen uterus” is not a diagnosis by itself. It can occur because of fibroids, adenomyosis, certain infections, pregnancy-related conditions, or other uterine problems.

Common Causes of an Enlarged or Swollen Uterus

Some possible causes include

• Uterine fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus that can cause heavy periods, pelvic pressure, abdominal swelling, or pain.

• Adenomyosis: The lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall, which can make the uterus enlarged and cause painful or heavy periods.

• Pelvic infection: Infection involving the reproductive organs can cause pelvic pain, fever, abnormal discharge, and inflammation.

• Pregnancy-related changes: The uterus naturally enlarges during pregnancy.

• Endometrial or other uterine conditions: Less commonly, abnormal growths or other conditions can enlarge the uterus and require further evaluation.

Does Uterine Swelling Always Require Surgery?

No. Surgery is not automatically required just because the uterus is enlarged.

The treatment depends on the cause, size of the uterus or fibroid, symptoms, age, fertility plans, and response to medicines. Some conditions can be managed with medicines and monitoring, while surgery may be recommended when symptoms are severe or the underlying problem cannot be adequately managed without a procedure.

When Can Surgery Be Recommended?

A gynaecologist consider surgery when there is

• Very heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Significant pelvic or abdominal pain

• Large fibroids or a markedly enlarged uterus

• Pressure on the bladder or bowel

• Recurrent symptoms despite medicines

• Significant anaemia due to heavy bleeding

• A suspicious growth requiring removal and testing

• A condition where definitive surgical treatment is appropriate

Depending on the diagnosis, procedures may include fibroid removal (myomectomy), hysteroscopic procedures, or in selected cases hysterectomy, which means removal of the uterus. The appropriate procedure should only be decided after evaluating her reports and future pregnancy requirements.

What Tests Be Needed?

The doctor recommend a pelvic ultrasound, and sometimes MRI or other investigations, depending on the findings. Blood tests such as haemoglobin may also be required if she has heavy bleeding.

If your sister has already been advised surgery, it is useful to know what exactly is causing the uterine swelling before proceeding.

How HexaHealth Can Assist You

HexaHealth is not a hospital. We work with several partner hospitals and experienced gynaecologists who can evaluate uterine conditions and recommend appropriate treatment.

• Help you find a suitable partner hospital.

• Connect your sister with an experienced gynaecologist.

• Help coordinate a second opinion if surgery has already been advised.

• Assist with understanding the diagnosis and available treatment options.

• Help coordinate investigations, consultation, and treatment at partner hospitals.

Please share your city and state, and tell us what diagnosis the doctor has mentioned, such as fibroid, adenomyosis, infection, or another condition. You can also share the ultrasound/scan findings if available. This will help us connect your sister with an experienced doctor at our partner hospitals.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth