Retroverted Uterus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

Reviewed by
Reviewed by Dr. Aarati Patil(Chief Doctor, MS , MD Ayurveda)
Last Updated At 26 Jun 2025 12:46 am (IST)
Retroverted Uterus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

A retroverted uterus, also called a tilted uterus, is a normal anatomical variation where the uterus tilts backwards toward the spine rather than leaning forward toward the belly. It’s often discovered during routine gynaecological exams and is usually congenital, though it can also result from childbirth, pelvic surgery, or conditions like endometriosis. This variation is common in many women and typically doesn’t pose a health risk or affect fertility.

Nearly 25% of uterine-bearing patients have a tilted uterus position. It is more prevalent in Indian patients and urogynecological patients. There, it is 79% more common than in the general gynaecology population. Interestingly, 69% of grade 2-4 uterine prolapses include a retroverted uterus.

The question on everyone's mind is: Is a tilted uterus dangerous? The answer is no. Most women with a tilted uterus do not have symptoms. In a few cases, it may be uncomfortable, painful during intercourse, or painful in the back. This is a complete guide to what a retroverted uterus is and the tilted uterus meaning. Let's find out the position of your uterus and your health.

Worried about recurring period pain or pelvic discomfort? Gynoveda’s Ayurvedic gynaecologist experts can help you uncover the real cause—book your consultation today.

Symptoms of a Retroverted Uterus

A retroverted uterus is usually unknown to women unless they have a pelvic exam or experience symptoms. If you face female pelvic pain, pressure during the menstrual cycle, or pain during intercourse, then you may have a tilted uterus. Basically, it's present in approximately 15-20% of women. So, why does this happen? And also, how do you discover it?

The causes of a tilted uterus and the possible retroverted uterus symptoms associated with each cause are listed below.

Lower back pain, especially during periods

When you have a retroverted uterus, you’re likely to feel pain in your lower back, especially when having your period. It happens because the uterus moves toward the back and places pressure on the spine. You find it painful, and it’s especially unbearable when you have your period. Lots of women think a tilted uterus is just discomfort, but it could mean you have a tilted uterus.

Painful intercourse (deep pelvic pain)

Sometimes, the signs of a tilted uterus make intercourse quite uncomfortable. Pain like this comes from the lower belly or pelvic area. Some positions tend to produce higher rates of head injuries. If you have excessive pain after sex, it might be due to your uterus being retroverted, and you should consult your doctor.

Discomfort during tampon insertion

If your uterus is tilted, using a tampon may cause you to feel pain or discomfort. You might feel that your tampon is not sitting right or it is hurting.

Urinary frequency or incomplete bladder emptying

A few women feel an urgent need to urinate and also find it hard to empty their bladders fully. It happens when the uterus puts pressure on the bladder.

Menstrual cramps or irregular flow (in some women)

A tilted uterus could make your cramps during your period stronger, or it may make your periods unpredictable. For some, it’s a blatant sign, but it’s not that way for everyone.

Often, no symptoms at all – found incidentally during checkups

A lot of women don’t notice these challenges affecting them. To find out whether the uterus is tilted, a medical examination is necessary. That’s why a lot of people never realise they have a tilted uterus.


Experiencing back pain or discomfort during periods? It could be more than just cramps. Book your Ayurvedic consultation with Gynoveda today and understand your uterine health better.


Causes of a Retroverted Uterus

Many different things can be the causes of a retroverted uterus. Some women are born with it, but for others, bodily or health changes cause it to transform. If PCOS is affecting your reproductive health, explore PCOS treatment in Ayurveda for natural hormone balance and symptom management.

Congenital – born with a tilted uterus

Most women are born with a tipped-back uterus. This is merely a variation in shape. The uterus will tip forward as a woman ages, but in others, it remains tipped back. These can be passed in families due to genes. This type does not usually produce any issues unless there are other problems in the pelvis.

Pregnancy or childbirth – weakening of pelvic muscles post-delivery

During pregnancy, the ligaments that support the uterus stretch to accommodate the baby. After delivery, these ligaments may not always return to their original place. This results in the uterus tilting backwards. Symptoms may be pelvic ache or backache, particularly after several pregnancies.

Endometriosis or pelvic adhesions can pull the uterus backwards

Endometriosis is one of the reasons for a tilted uterus. Endometrial cell adhesions or scarring can "glue" the uterus to nearby organs. Thus, it fixes it in a backwards position. It often causes dysmenorrhea, pain during sex, or bowel movements.

Fibroids or cysts – create pressure or change position

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that can alter the shape and position of the uterus. Large fibroids cause the uterus to tilt backwards and put pressure on the lower abdomen. Thus, it leads to fullness or pain. They are also a frequent cause of a retroverted uterus.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – scar tissue formation

PID is an infectious disease of the reproductive organs. If untreated, it can lead to scarring that relocates the uterus. Like endometriosis, it can pull the uterus backwards. Chronic pelvic pain can be a symptom.

To move forward, the first step is diagnosis.

If you experience unrelated pelvic symptoms, mention them to your gynaecologist. A pelvic exam or ultrasound usually diagnoses a tilt. A tilted uterus is not something to worry about, but understanding the causes can help ease pain.

Endometriosis, fibroids, PID, and previous pelvic surgery can cause a tilted uterus. Approximately 1 in 5 women faces this situation. During early pregnancy, approximately 15% of women have a retroverted uterus. In occasional cases (approx. 1 in 3000 pregnancies), the pelvis traps the uterus as it develops.


How is a Retroverted Uterus Diagnosed?

Feeling perplexed when hearing you could have a tilted uterus? Don't panic; you're not alone. Lots of women are surprised to find they have a retroverted uterus, as it rarely causes any symptoms. But if you experience pelvic pain, pain during sex, or fertility problems, you need a diagnosis. Many gynaecologists may also suggest checking your AMH levels to understand ovarian reserve and fertility potential

blogImage

Let's talk about what will happen in a retroverted uterus diagnosis.

Pelvic examination: physical checkup by a gynaecologist

Your doctor will most likely begin with a pelvic exam. This is a routine exam where the gynaecologist touches lightly on the area of your cervix and uterus. The uterus is normally tilted forward. But with a retroverted uterus, the uterus tilts back toward your spine. This physical exam shows the position of the uterus.

Ultrasound: abdominal or transvaginal scan confirms uterine position

To confirm the findings of the pelvic exam, or if in doubt, an ultrasound of the tilted uterus may be performed. Abdomen and transvaginal ultrasounds both provide very good pictures of the uterus. This helps detect other potential causes of symptoms, such as fibroids or endometriosis.

MRI or additional imaging: if associated issues like fibroids or endometriosis are suspected

If your symptoms are extreme or your doctor suspects other issues, you might need an MRI. This is rare, but it gives a better idea if conditions like endometriosis are present.

Early and correct pelvic exam findings can avoid long-term confusion and discomfort.


A tilted uterus is common, but proper diagnosis matters. Speak with a Gynoveda expert and get clarity with safe, personalised Ayurvedic guidance.


Does a Retroverted Uterus Affect Fertility or Pregnancy?

Are you concerned that a tilted uterus will keep you from becoming pregnant? You're not alone. Most women can enjoy pregnancy with a retroverted uterus. Here's what you need to know. To assess ovulation and improve conception chances, your doctor may recommend a follicular study, which tracks egg development and ovulation timing.

  • The good news is that having a tilted uterus won't prevent you from becoming pregnant. In most cases, it won't impact pregnancy. Usually, you don’t face any tilted uterus fertility impact. A tilted uterus may cause discomfort during sex or problems with sperm flow.

  • If you can't get pregnant, the issue may not be the tilted uterus. You may have some other type of health issue. Endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease can affect fertility. These are sometimes associated with a tilted uterus.

  • During pregnancy, the uterus would normally shift forward from 12 to 14 weeks. A retroverted uterus rarely results in early urinary retention. Hence, you need early medical care.

blogImage

Treatment Options for Retroverted Uterus

Is your uterus tipped back, and are you concerned? Don't be. A retroverted uterus is normal. Most women aren't even aware that they have one. It typically causes no trouble at all. So, if you don't have any discomfort, you don't need treatment for a tilted uterus.

If you face pelvic, menstrual pain, or trouble getting pregnant, there are helpful treatments available.

  • Yoga and Kegel exercises keep your uterus healthy by tightening your pelvic region. This holds your uterus in place and eases slight pain. You can perform these easily and safely at home.

  • Sitting or standing with bad posture can make things worse. You can stand up straight and exercise your lower abdomen to heal pelvic pain and relieve pain.

  • Vaginal Pessary is a small device that a physician inserts into the vagina. It supports your uterus temporarily without surgery.

  • You need Surgery only in rare situations for pelvic pain treatment. Doctors can move and elevate the uterus to a better position.

Some women use Ayurvedic help along with conventional medicine. Ashokarishta or Dashmoolarishta can increase strength and balance the uterine region.

Blending new and old care may be best for the retroverted uterus cure. Always see a doctor before starting any treatment.


blogImage

Ayurvedic Perspective: Balance Nature for a Healthy Uterus

Is your period painful or irregular? Do you frequently feel bloated or tired? You are not alone. Most women experience these issues, and their uterus may be the reason. Ayurvedic treatment for the uterus offers easy, natural ways that can be done at home.

A healthy uterus in Ayurveda depends on healthy doshas of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. When Vata is out of balance, it might be the cause of menstrual pain and dryness. Excessive Pitta can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and infections. When Kapha is out of balance, cysts and fibroids can result. Along with Ayurvedic herbs like Shatavari and Ashoka, you can explore how to improve egg quality naturally through diet, lifestyle, and holistic practices.

Uterus health in Ayurveda is linked with balanced Apana Vayu and Artava Dhatu.

Ayurveda links the uterus to Apana Vayu (descending energy) and Artava Dhatu (reproductive tissue). Ashoka, Shatavari, Lodhra, and Kanchanar Guggulu herbs can restore it naturally. Ayurvedic therapies commonly use these for a tilted uterus natural remedy.

Panchakarma therapies: especially Basti (medicated enema) and Abhyanga (oil massage)

Basti for uterus health is excellent. It flushes toxins from the lower abdomen. Used with Abhyanga, these treatments promote circulation and anti-inflammation.

Yoga poses to promote pelvic alignment:

Try out Supta Baddha Konasana, Malasana, and Setu Bandhasana. They are good for your uterus as they improve posture and help to circulate blood.

If you want a natural solution, use yoga with these Ayurvedic methods for optimal results. Modern science informs us that stress, nutrition, and posture affect reproductive health. Ayurveda assists in obtaining natural balance.


When to See a Doctor for Uterus Pain or Retroverted Uterus

Most women, especially in rural areas, do not know when to consult for a retroverted uterus. But it is important to pay attention to these symptoms.

  • If you have a tilted uterus and you experience pain during periods or sex, don't ignore it. If you have heavy bleeding, irregular bleeding, or feel pressure on the bladder, get an uterus pain. These are easy symptoms, but they can be linked to something more dangerous.

  • Ayurveda balances the doshas, whereas modern science finds the cause through tests.

  • If you are trying to conceive and have failed many times, your doctor can review both Ayurvedic and modern solutions.


Balance your body naturally. Gynoveda’s Ayurvedic herbs and therapies are designed to restore womb health—consult our experts to begin your healing journey.


Conclusion

Retroverted uterus is not a disease, but knowing it can save you from suffering and worry. It exists in most women, and they don't even know about it. If you are suffering from back pain, menstrual pain, or inability to conceive, don't overlook it. Early diagnosis by a doctor and proper uterus health tips can make a huge difference. With changes in your lifestyle, physical activities, and diet, you can also be healthy. By spreading retroverted uterus awareness and following simple tips on uterus care, you can be safe and healthy.

Your health is up to you—listen to your body, do it now, and book your appointment today.

Planning For A Baby?

India's 1st Ayurveda Fertility Clinic

20K+ Couples Became Parents

Rated 4.6/5 By 13K+ Happy Parents

Frequent Asked Questions

Can a retroverted uterus become normal again?

Yes, in certain situations, the uterus returns to where it is naturally meant to be. This is possible after pregnancy, after giving birth, or with the help of gentle therapies.

Is it the same as an inverted uterus?

No, they are not the same. A retroverted uterus tilts backwards naturally. But an inverted uterus turns inside out. It is an uncommon and severe medical issue that requires attention.

Will it cause complications in pregnancy?

It typically does not cause any issues during pregnancy. The uterus will typically move forward as the baby grows. It can sometimes cause pain or trouble with urination early in pregnancy.

Can it be corrected with yoga or Ayurvedic massage?

Yes, certain yoga poses and Ayurvedic massages do increase blood flow and reduce pain. They will not change the location of the uterus. But they can naturally promote better uterine health.

Does it cause painful periods?

Yes, for a few women, a tilted uterus can be the cause of painful periods. It may put pressure on other body structures and make their period cramps much more severe.

Can it lead to infertility?

A tilted uterus will not typically keep you from getting pregnant. If there are endometriosis or fibroids, it may make it a bit harder to get pregnant.

Is surgery the only solution?

No, not necessarily. Most women do not need to be treated in any way. If the pain or the infertility is very severe, then surgeons will recommend surgery as a last resort.

What foods help improve uterine health naturally?

Papaya, vegetables, sesame seeds, and herbs like Shatavari and Ashoka keep the uterus healthy. Proper food, drinking plenty of water, and not eating junk food are also necessary.

How is it different from a prolapsed uterus?

The retroverted uterus leans backwards, but the prolapsed uterus slips from its place. Prolapse may feel heavy or like something's coming out.

Can I live normally with a retroverted uterus?

Yes, you can lead a perfectly normal life. Most women are not even aware they have it. See, if you have no severe symptoms, you do not need any treatment.

Gynoveda can help you find the nearest clinic

Talk to Gynoveda Today

Why Gynoveda

Editorial Policy Shield

Want to know more?

We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and relevant information

Read our editorial policy
Want to conceive without IVF?