Finding out that you have an enlarged uterus can be concerning, and your first question is likely to be, “Why?” It’s a good question! Identifying the cause of your enlarged uterus is the first step in getting started with the right treatments.
There are many potential causes of an enlarged uterus. If uterine fibroids are the cause of your symptoms, our expert team at Fresno Fibroid Center in Fresno, California, can help you find the relief you need.
Here are a few potential causes of an enlarged uterus.
Officially known as leiomyomas, uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of your uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location, and may lead to significant enlargement of the uterus. To paint a picture, fibroids can be as small as a seed or as large as a watermelon!
You might suspect that fibroids are the source of your enlarged uterus if you also notice symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure.
Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue, typically lining the interior of the uterus, grows into the muscular uterine wall, potentially leading to uterine enlargement, tenderness, and a spongy texture.
Adenomyosis can create some of the same symptoms as fibroids, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and discomfort during intercourse.
Like fibroids, uterine polyps are abnormal but benign growths. While fibroids are made of fibrous tissues and smooth muscular tissue, uterine polyps are formed as a result of your endometrium overgrowing.
Endometrial hyperplasia refers to an abnormal thickening of your endometrium, and while this condition isn’t cancerous, it can increase your risk of uterine cancer.
This condition can occur due to hormonal imbalances, such as an excess of estrogen relative to progesterone. In some cases, endometrial hyperplasia can lead to uterine enlargement and abnormal uterine bleeding.
Your uterus grows throughout your pregnancy to accommodate your growing baby, which is normal. However, if your uterus is bigger than anticipated for your gestational age, there may be conditions affecting the size of your uterus. This includes molar pregnancies or uterine fibroids that are competing for space in your uterus.
Cancerous tumors can contribute to bloating and an enlarged uterus.
Keep in mind, though, that uterine fibroids are far more common than uterine cancer. As many as 70% of women develop a fibroid during their reproductive years, while uterine cancer only accounts for 3.5% of all cancer cases in America.
Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know what’s causing your enlarged uterus just by reviewing your symptoms. Your symptoms are only one piece of the puzzle. A pelvic exam and diagnostic imaging can help confirm the source of your symptoms.
Whether you’re dealing with fibroids, polyps, or adenomyosis, Drs. Balfour, Ng, Pruett, or Tower can help you get the relief you need. If fibroids are to blame, know that the Fresno-based team offers a variety of treatments, including both nonsurgical and surgical.
Ready to get the answers you need? Book your consultation through our online booking tool or call 559-216-0746.
