What are the symptoms of a scarred uterus?

Generally, a scarred uterus may lead to symptoms such as menstrual disorders, chronic abdominal pain, infertility, uterine rupture, and placenta previa. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Menstrual Disorders

Scar tissue can affect the normal growth and shedding of the endometrium, leading to irregular menstruation, manifested as prolonged or shortened menstrual cycles and increased or decreased menstrual flow.

2. Chronic Abdominal Pain

If the scar on the uterine serosal surface adheres to the peritoneum, it may obstruct blood circulation, causing chronic abdominal pain, usually presenting as a dull or aching pain that may worsen with changes in the menstrual cycle.

3. Infertility

Scar tissue may alter the shape of the uterine cavity, making it difficult for the fertilized egg to find a suitable implantation site within the uterus, thereby affecting embryo implantation and causing infertility.

4. Uterine Rupture

If a patient has a scarred uterus and becomes pregnant again, the scar tissue, which has reduced strength and elasticity, may be unable to withstand the expansion of the uterus during pregnancy, potentially leading to rupture and endangering both maternal and fetal lives.

5. Placenta Previa

A scarred uterus may also increase the risk of placenta previa. Placenta previa refers to the placenta attaching to the lower segment of the uterus with its edge reaching or covering the internal cervical os, which may cause bleeding during pregnancy and preterm birth.

Women are advised to avoid unnecessary uterine surgeries as much as possible to reduce the risk of developing a scarred uterus. Additionally, women with a scarred uterus should choose an appropriate mode of delivery under a doctor's guidance to reduce the risk of severe complications such as uterine rupture.