Does having a tilted uterus make it more difficult to conceive?
Answer From Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.
A tilted uterus, also called a tipped uterus, retroverted uterus or retroflexed uterus, is a normal anatomical variation. It shouldn't interfere with your ability to conceive.
In most women, the uterus tips forward at the cervix. About 1 in 4 women, however, has a uterus that leans backward, or tilts, at the cervix. In the past, doctors thought that a tilted uterus might have contributed to infertility. But experts now know that the position of the uterus doesn't affect the ability of sperm to reach an egg.
Occasionally, a sharply tilted uterus may happen when scar tissues (adhesions) form due to conditions such as endometriosis, infection or prior surgery. Although this may make it more challenging for sperm to reach an egg, conception can still occur. However, in these cases, you may benefit from seeing a fertility specialist.
With
Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.
Dec. 17, 2016
- Lobo RA, et al. Reproductive anatomy. In: Comprehensive Gynecology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2017. http://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 13, 2016.
- Ferri FF. Endometriosis. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2017. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Oct. 13, 2016.
- Butler Tobah YS (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 16, 2016.