Uterine health is vital to a woman’s overall well-being, particularly during her reproductive years. Many women experience conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, and adenomyosis, which can affect menstrual health, fertility, and daily comfort. By understanding these common uterine issues, recognising the symptoms, and learning how to manage them, women can seek timely care from a qualified gynaecologist and obstetrician and maintain good reproductive health.

Common Uterine Problems and Their Symptoms

1. Uterine Fibroids

These are benign tumours made of smooth muscle that develop in the uterus. Fibroids are quite common and can vary in size from tiny nodules to large masses.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pressure or pain
  • Increased urination or constipation caused by pressure on the bladder or intestines
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Infertility or complications during pregnancy

2. Endometriosis

This occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and scarring. It affects many women of reproductive age.

Symptoms often are:

  • Severe menstrual cramps and pelvic pain
  • Pain during or after sexual intercourse
  • Heavy or irregular periods
  • Infertility
  • Painful bowel movements or urination during periods

3. Adenomyosis

In adenomyosis, the inner lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall, causing an enlarged and tender uterus.

Common symptoms:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Severe cramps and pelvic pain
  • Enlarged abdomen

4. Uterine Prolapse

This occurs when weakened pelvic muscles cause the uterus to descend into the vaginal canal, common in older women or after multiple vaginal births.

Symptoms include:

  • Sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis
  • Urinary problems or incontinence
  • Visible bulge from the vagina
  • Discomfort during intercourse

How to Manage Uterine Issues

1. Consult the Right Specialist:

A reputable gynaecologist and obstetrician can diagnose uterine issues accurately through a combination of physical exams, ultrasound imaging, and, when necessary, MRI or hysteroscopy.

2. Medical Management:

Medical management includes medications such as hormonal treatments, including birth control pills or progesterone, which can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding and pain. Pain relief with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may also help manage cramps. Hormonal IUDs can further reduce menstrual bleeding and alleviate pain associated with fibroids and adenomyosis.

3. Surgical Options:

If symptoms are severe or other treatments fail, surgery may be considered:

  • Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, suitable for women desiring future pregnancies.
  • Endometrial ablation: Destroys the uterine lining to reduce heavy bleeding, but is not recommended for women planning pregnancy.
  • Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy, which involves the complete removal of the uterus, is considered a last resort for intractable symptoms or large fibroids.

4. Lifestyle and Supportive Care:

Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in light exercise can help ease symptoms, while stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation may provide additional relief.

When to See a Doctor

Seek consultation with a doctor if you experience:

  • Unusually heavy or prolonged periods
  • Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Bleeding after intercourse or between cycles
  • Difficulty conceiving or recurrent pregnancy loss

Early diagnosis ensures better treatment outcomes and preserves fertility whenever possible.

Final Thoughts

Facing uterine issues can be daunting, but most conditions can be effectively managed with the right care and guidance. Whether through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or surgical intervention, seeking treatment from an experienced gynaecologist and obstetrician ensures personalised care.