The normal size of the uterus varies according to the age of the woman. This write-up tells you what should be the average size of the uterus and what does the change in the size of uterus indicate.
One of the most important organs of the female body is the uterus. It is the main part of the female reproductive system, the site of implantation and growth of the fertilized ovum.The size of the uterus is helpful to discern whether the woman has or will have any significant gynecological problems. It also acts as a great indicator of a women’s health. It is only during the time of pregnancy that the size of the uterus increases widely as compared to its normal size.
Average Size of The Uterus
Measurement of The Uterus
There are three dimensions of the uterus that are measured to determine it’s size. These include the length of the uterus, which is measured from the fundus (the furthest point from the opening) till the external opening. The length can also be calculated from the anteroposterior section, with the max length of the midsagittal section in the anteroposterior direction. The width of the uterus is the cross-section of the fundus. The uterus thickness is the third dimension.
Size of the Uterus: Before Puberty
The size of the uterus changes depending on the age and hormonal condition of the woman. Before a girl reaches puberty, the normal uterus size lengthwise is around 3.5 cm. The anteroposterior diameter at this time is said to be around 1 cm and the uterus thickness is greater than 1 cm. The volume ranges from 1 – 4 cm3
Size of the Uterus: After Puberty
When the girl reaches puberty, then due to the surge in hormonal secretions, the uterus gains its proper pear-shaped appearance, and its dimensions increase as well. The length is 7.6 cm and width is 4.5 cm and the thickness (anteroposterior diameter) is usually around 3 cm. The volume of the uterus varies and fluctuates between 75 cm3 and 200 cm3. The uterus weighs about 100 to 200 grams and on an average, can be said to be the size of the fist of the woman.
Abnormal Size of the Uterus
Decrease in the Uterus Size
There are predominantly two reasons for the decrease in the uterus size :
- Thickening of the uterus lining – When the muscle wall thickens, the size of the lumen decrease resulting in the decrease of the uterus volume.
- Prolapse – The size of the uterus also decreases when there is prolapsed uterus or a dropped uterus.
Increase in the Uterus Size
There are certain conditions in which the uterus size could be more than usual :
- Double uterus – It is a very rare condition, where we can see two tubes at the start of the uterus.
- Fibroids – These harmless tumors can grow anywhere in the uterus and results in increased size of the uterus, infertility, excessive bleeding and a lot of pain.
- Adenomyosis – This condition occurs when the endometrium grows into the uterus.
- Uterine Cancer – It is one of the reasons for the uterus enlargement.
The key to a healthy uterus is regular checkup and a profound awareness of the symptoms. Reach out to your doctor if you have trouble urinating or a lot of pain during sex. Although there are conditions which still haven’t received a proper scientific explanation, if you are diagnosed early chances are you will be cured.
