Bulky Uterus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A bulky uterus affects women, especially those over 35. Uterine fibroids are a primary cause of this condition, affecting around 20% to 40% of women in their reproductive years. A study found that in India, the prevalence of uterine fibroids in rural populations is 37.65%, and in urban populations, it is 24%. 

The term ‘Bulky Uterus’ may sound unusual and intimidating in the context of women's health. This all-in-one guide will help you explore the bulky uterus, its symptoms, causes, and treatment. 

What is a Bulky Uterus? 

A bulky uterus means the uterus is larger than normal. It is a medical term used to describe the situation. The uterus turns bulky because it grows during the period of pregnancy. In non-pregnant women, the uterus grows because of musculature, connective tissues, and endometrial glands. 

The normal measurement of the uterus in non-pregnant women is around 7 to 8 cm long, 5 cm across, and 4 cm thick. The normal volume is between 80 and 200 mL. 

Many scenarios are causing an enlarged uterus. But the most common one is pregnancy. Women who bear a child in their womb usually have a large uterus, which is measured to be normal. Their uterus can become enlarged because of malignancy and benign conditions. Besides, some infections may also cause a bulky uterus. 

15 Symptoms of Bulky Uterus 

During the initial stage, a bulky uterus is asymptomatic (no symptoms). It causes symptoms when it enlarges. This may bring in pressure, like symptoms: 

1. A feeling of heaviness 
2. Exert pressure over the urinary bladder 
3. Frequent urination or difficulty in urinating

Keeping aside, the symptom of a bulky uterus depends on the cause behind it. The following are some of the common symptoms of a bulky uterus.

1. Backaches 
2. Swelling in the uterus 
3. Heavy bleeding and cramps in the pelvic region 
4. Irregular abnormalities in the menstrual cycle
5. Pain during sex 
6. Heaviness around the lower abdomen 
7. Paleness of the skin. 
8. Weakness or fatigue 
9. Palpitation of a mass around the lower abdomen 
10. Excessive bleeding between periods (may cause anemia) 
11. Irregular vaginal discharge 
12. Bleeding in the postmenopausal period 

6 Primary Causes of Bulky Uterus 

The size of the uterus usually increases during the time of pregnancy. However, some conditions can cause a bulky uterus, even in non-pregnant women. These include fibroids, PCOS, ovarian cysts, adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia, and uterine cancer. 

• Fibroids 

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow inside the uterus. These non-cancerous tumors are small lumps that measure up to numerous pounds. They may also be responsible for causing symptoms like 

• Heavy menstrual cycles 
• Back pain 
• Bleeding 
• Frequent urination 
• Backache and leg pain 
• Constipation

Bulky uterus and fibroids can occur in people over 30. However, they can also occur in overweight women, as obese women are at a greater risk of developing fibroids. Several causes of fibroids exist, including genetic changes, hormones, growth factors, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. 

• Adenomyosis 

Adenomyosis is a medical condition where the endometrium (uterine lining) may grow into the uterine musculature. There are several known causes, but the most common is hormonal imbalance. It is linked to estrogen levels. 

Adenomyosis is a reason for a bulky uterus and typically occurs in women over 30, women who are infertile, and women who have never borne children. 

A woman in her 40s may experience painful periods, heavy bleeding, and abdominal pain. Meanwhile, genetic mutations, inflammation, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals can contribute to adenomyosis. 

A healthcare professional may use pelvic examination, ultrasound, or MRI to diagnose adenomyosis. 

• Endometrial Cancer 

Endometrial cancer begins in the layers of cells forming the uterus lining. A doctor may diagnose adenomyosis through endometrial biopsy and transvaginal and abdominal ultrasound. 

Endometrial cancer in a bulky uterus may cause symptoms like postmenopausal bleeding, pain during sex, and pain in the pelvic area. 

• Pyometra (Pus in the Uterus) 

A bulky uterus causes pyometra, a collection of pus in the uterus. This may happen because of an infection, which narrows the cervical canal, preventing the pus from leaving the uterine cavity. It can also occur as a secondary infection of the cancerous tissue in the uterus. 

Pyometra may cause symptoms like postmenopausal bleeding, vaginal discharge, fever, nausea, and lower abdominal pain. It is most common in postmenopausal, and the symptoms can be vague and nonspecific, making diagnosis challenging. 

• Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is a common cause of a bulky uterus. Your uterus may grow up to 20 times while nurturing a baby. The uterus eventually returns to its usual size after birthing. 

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) 

Some conditions like sexually transmitted diseases, reproductive conditions, and aggressive treatments for a bulky uterus may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It is a common cause of acquired infertility. However, it can be treated with antibiotics under the guidance of a fertility specialist. 

Diagnosis of a Bulky Uterus 

A doctor will conduct a physical examination and know your medical history. They may ask you about the symptoms, time of disease, and causes to get ahead with the diagnosis. The following are the diagnosis methods a healthcare professional may prescribe. 

• Ultrasound
• MRI 
• Hysteroscopy 

Your doctor may also prescribe certain blood tests to identify the exact cause of a bulky uterus and plan the treatment process accordingly. 

Treatment for Bulky Uterus 

The treatment of a bulky uterus depends on its symptoms and causes. Treatment focuses on managing the condition. The treatment options include medication, surgery, lifestyle changes, and uterine artery embolization. 

• Surgery: In some cases, a healthcare professional may use a surgical procedure to remove the fibroids, removal of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and even lymph nodes. 
• Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): A surgical procedure involving a small incision to block blood flow to uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink. 
• Lifestyle Changes: Some lifestyle changes can help manage and reduce the severity of symptoms of a bulky uterus. These include limiting caffeinated beverages and alcoholic substances, stress management, regular exercise, and following a healthy balanced diet. 
• Medications: A doctor may prescribe medications such as contraceptives and hormonal therapies to reduce heavy bleeding. They may also recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and discomfort. 

5 Tips to Reduce Bulky Uterus Naturally 

The following are the natural ways to manage and reduce a bulky uterus. 

• Healthy Diet: A nutritious diet packed with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage a bulky uterus. To improve overall health, avoid consuming junk and processed food and limit sugary foods. 
• Regular Exercise: To manage weight and reduce a bulky uterus, engage in exercises like walking, running, yoga, and swimming. 
• Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It can help flush out toxins from the body and reduce a bulky uterus naturally.
• Manage Weight: Weight management is an effective strategy for naturally reducing a bulky uterus. Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise to keep your weight in check. 
• Herbal Remedies: Ginger, turmeric, and green tea contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage a bulky uterus. 

Keep your health intact by taking preventive measures and regular checkups from Healthy India Ki Trusted Labs: Redcliffe Labs! 

Steps to Book a Test From Redcliffe Labs 

• Visit www.redcliffelabs.com 
• Search for the test you need. 
• Click on "book now" and fill out the required details: name, contact details, address, and preferred time. 
• Make the payment.
• A phlebotomist will visit your home for the sample collection.