Small Uterus and Pregnancy

Most women don’t realise they have a small uterus until they get pregnant. When a woman suspects she is pregnant and goes to a doctor, a gynaecological exam or an ultrasound may bring this news (of having a small uterus) and can cause immense worry. At times, the doctor’s language may also instil fear. However, it is always essential to get to the bottom of it and understand the health condition properly. This article has put together some important aspects about having a small uterus and pregnancy. The points below cover all your woes regarding a small uterus vis-a-vis pregnancy.

What Causes Formation of Small Uterus?

As per medical science, the uterus size varies in all women. However, the size that has been termed as a specific benchmark is what has been observed in a majority of women. The neck length of the uterus is usually 25mm, with the myometrium as thick as 30mm or so. The actual dimensions of the uterus tend to be 40-50mm in width, whereas the length is usually 70-80mm. These parameters are generally used as a reference, but many women tend to have a completely healthy uterus that might not be as large as this.

In some women, the uterus can be larger than the average or even smaller. However, it should function just fine. A woman’s body physique is a major governing factor for uterus size. Therefore, preternaturally thin women with a small body face have higher chances of having a small uterus.

Is It Possible for a Woman to Conceive Successfully If She Has a Small Uterus?

The tiny foetus at conception grows into a full-fledged baby by the end of the pregnancy. Therefore, it is crucial to understand whether women can conceive successfully with a small uterus. Any chances of risk should be mitigated right from the start.

One of the critical factors to be considered to conceive in the presence of a small uterus successfully is the epithelium. Enhanced blood flow can help with its growth. Sometimes, a doctor may also recommend a pregnant woman undergo hormonal stimulation to increase the chances of conception.

Any hormone therapy affects the external genitalia. Hormone therapy may be suggested for women who suffer from a condition where the uterus, as well as the genitals, are underdeveloped, causing an imbalance of various hormone levels within the body. Termed as hypoplasia, it could also indicate the presence of other illnesses. Undertaking hormonal therapy in such a case could make matters worse.

At times, proper intake of vitamins and minerals could make conception possible. You can opt for vitamin therapy if you are pregnant and have a small uterus. It uses specific fluid preparations that are useful when consumed daily.

What If You Are Diagnosed With a Small Uterus in Pregnancy?

Defining the uterus as “small” is insufficient for doctors to make a proper decision. Further diagnosis is necessary to determine the actual condition. It could be hypoplasia, where the uterus is small due to hormonal issues. Aplasia could also be a cause, where the uterus is the same as that of a newborn child or even absent. Another condition could be infantilism, where the uterus is not larger than 55mm.

Any treatment method to increase the uterus size takes a reasonable amount of time. Using hormonal medication is a standard method for women diagnosed with hypoplasia. In some instances, being involved in sexual activity regularly can also be beneficial and could cause the uterus to increase in size gradually.

What If the Uterus Is Less Than the Gestational Age?

While detecting a small uterus before conception is one case, it might even be observed during pregnancy. An intra-uterine growth restriction may take place that limits the child from growing as large as it should be and limiting its weight.

Several factors are usually considered to determine whether the uterus size will be problematic. These are primarily the vital elements such as the amount of amniotic fluid present in the sac, the position of the foetus within the uterus, the size it has grown to depend on the pregnancy’s progress, and so on.

Any case of a small uterus will be examined with proper ultrasound tests, which might be followed by a colour-doppler for more details.

FAQ

1. Does Small Uterus Increase the Risk of Miscarriage?

A small uterus, or a hypoplastic uterus or uterine hypoplasia, is characterised by a smaller-than-average uterus. While the size of the uterus can potentially affect a woman’s reproductive health, it is essential to note that the relationship between a small uterus and the risk of miscarriage is not well-established. Miscarriages can occur due to various factors, including genetic abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, uterine abnormalities, maternal health conditions, and lifestyle factors. Uterine abnormalities, such as a small uterus, can potentially contribute to an increased risk of miscarriage, but it is not the sole determining factor. However, many women with small uteruses have successful pregnancies and deliver healthy babies without complications. 

A small-sized uterus and pregnancy may not exactly be conducive to each other. But if your doctor suggests everything will be fine, there is no need to worry. Using a few techniques, your pregnancy can proceed safely and give your baby the life he deserves.

References/Resources:

1. Does a small uterus affect fertility?; Vinmec Health Clinic; https://www.vinmec.com/en/news/health-news/obstetrics-gynecology-and-assisted-reproductive-technologies-art/does-a-small-uterus-affect-fertility/

2. itayama. R; A Case of Miscarriage Caused by a Small Uterus following Childhood Chemotherapy; Case report on Oncology; https://karger.com/cro/article/12/2/443/91251/A-Case-of-Miscarriage-Caused-by-a-Small-Uterus; June 2019

3. Bhagavath B, Ellie G, Griffiths KM, et al.;  Uterine malformations: an update of diagnosis, management, and outcomes;  Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey; https://journals.lww.com/obgynsurvey/abstract/2017/06000/uterine_malformations__an_update_of_diagnosis,.16.aspx; June 2017

4. Vaz S. A, Dotters-Katz S. K, Kuller J. A;  Diagnosis and management of congenital uterine anomalies in pregnancy; Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey; https://journals.lww.com/obgynsurvey/abstract/2017/03000/diagnosis_and_management_of_congenital_uterine.20.aspx; March 2017

Also Read:

Bicornuate(Heart Shaped) Uterus
Different Types of Uterus Abnormalities?
Blood Clot in the Uterus when Pregnant