Is anteverted uterus better or retroverted uterus better?
Jun 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chong Yiwen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the uterus in most women is anteverted and anteflexed. Although an anteverted uterus may predispose to placenta previa, it is considered a normal anatomical position and is associated with a higher likelihood of conception compared to a retroverted uterus. In contrast, a retroverted uterus may impair fertility. Mild uterine retroversion typically causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. However, severe uterine retroversion warrants prompt medical evaluation.
Uterine position includes two types: anteverted (anterior) and retroverted (posterior) uterus. Although an anteverted uterus is associated with a higher risk of placenta previa, it is considered the normal anatomical position and generally confers better fertility potential compared to a retroverted uterus.
Under normal circumstances, most women have an anteverted and anteflexed uterus. “Anteverted” refers to the entire uterine body tilting forward; “anteflexed” denotes that the angle formed between the longitudinal axis of the uterine body and that of the cervix and vagina is less than 90 degrees.
A retroverted uterus refers to the uterine body tilting posteriorly toward the rectum. Retroversion may be further classified into retroversion alone or retroversion with retroflexion. Retroversion occurs when the longitudinal axis of the uterus remains unchanged while the entire uterus tilts backward. Retroversion with retroflexion occurs when the uterus tilts backward and forms an acute angle at the junction between the uterine body and the cervix. Common causes include ligamentous laxity and damage to the pelvic floor diaphragm and the base of the broad ligament following multiple vaginal deliveries.
In general, a retroverted uterus may impair fertility. Mild retroversion typically produces no symptoms and requires no treatment. In contrast, severe retroversion often manifests clinically, primarily with low back pain. Mild cases may present only with dull, aching discomfort in the lumbar region, whereas more severe cases involve pronounced aching and discomfort extending across the entire lower back, sacrococcygeal region, and bilateral iliac areas. In some patients, the discomfort may radiate to the lower back and bilateral inguinal regions. If severe retroversion develops, prompt medical consultation is advised to obtain appropriate evaluation and timely management.
