Characteristics of a Healthy and Fertile Uterus, Here's How to Find Out

The uterus has an important role in the female reproductive system.

In fact, you could say that the uterus is the center of reproduction because the fetus will grow and develop there.

For women, of course it is important to know the characteristics of a healthy uterus.

By knowing this, health problems that can attack can be prevented and overcome with appropriate action.

Not only that, knowing the condition of the uterus is also useful for couples who are planning a pregnancy.

So, what are the characteristics of a healthy and fertile uterus? Let us see below!

Function of the Uterus for Reproduction

The uterus is a reproductive organ with three roles as follows:

1. Pregnancy : The uterus functions as a comfortable "home" for the baby to develop in the womb, from fertilization until the baby is ready to be born. During the birth process, the muscles in the uterus will contract to help the baby be born and stop the bleeding.
2. Fertility or fecundity: The uterus is the place where conception or fertilization occurs, namely the egg meets the sperm.
3. Menstruation: As the menstrual cycle progresses, the uterine wall will experience changes.

With this, the uterine wall thickens and becomes rich in blood, getting closer to ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary).

If the egg is fertilized, pregnancy occurs. However, if it is not fertilized, the uterine wall will shed which is called menstruation.

Characteristics of a Healthy and Fertile Uterus

Physically, a healthy uterus can be seen from its position and shape in the body.

The position of the uterus varies. However, most women have the uterus in an anteverted position (tilted forward, towards the stomach).

However, there are also other positions such as:

1. Retroversion: The uterus curves towards the back or spinal cord.
2. Anteflexion: The uterus bends forward at an angle that can compress the bladder.
3. Retroflexion: The uterus bends forward at a tilt that can put pressure on the lower back.

Apart from position, the shape of the uterus can also vary. In general, the shape of the uterus resembles an upside-down pear. However, there are several forms of the uterus that are also healthy, such as:

1. Bicornuate uterus : heart-shaped uterus.
2. Arcuate uterus : has a shape similar to the uterus in general but there is a slight curve at the top. However, the shape of the uterus does not affect a woman's ability to get pregnant.
3. Uterus septa : The uterus is divided into two parts.
4. Unicornuate uterus : The uterus has only one fallopian tube.
5. Didelphys uterus : Has two uterus in the body.

How to find out the condition of your own uterus

There is no need to open the stomach, you can see the condition of the uterus from several of these indicators.

In general, a healthy or fertile uterus can be seen from the menstrual cycle. A good menstrual cycle regularly every month. This cycle occurs every 21 to 35 days and lasts for 3 to 7 days.

Apart from that, normal menstruation causes mild pain or occurs without pain.

Not only that, you can also assess the condition of the uterus from daily complaints, one of which is vaginal discharge. Normal vaginal discharge is odorless and colorless.

Lastly, fertility can also be an indicator of uterine health. If you frequently have sexual relations without contraception for 12 months, of course pregnancy may occur. However, if not, you should start a consultation.

How to Maintain Uterine Health

To maintain a healthy uterus, you can make several lifestyle changes, such as:

1. Eat a balanced menu . Based on a study from the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, excessive consumption of red meat can increase the risk of uterine fibroids, while consuming vegetables such as broccoli or cauliflower can reduce the risk of this condition.
2. Be more active . After sitting for a long time, you should try to stand up and walk so that blood flow can flow more smoothly. Apart from that, you are also advised to do light exercise regularly.
3. Reduce caffeine consumption. Excessive caffeine consumption can increase estrogen production. According to a study conducted in the journal Fertility and Sterility , women who consume 500 mg of caffeine (equivalent to 4 glasses) produce more estrogen which can increase the risk of developing fibroids.
4. Reduce stress. Yup, excessive stress can cause disruption to the menstrual cycle.
5. Stop consuming alcoholic drinks. Apart from stress, alcoholic drinks can also cause disruption to the menstrual cycle.

Also read: Get to know the 7 types of premarital examinations that must be carried out

Do you need to consult an ob-gyn?

You are advised to consult a gynecologist if you experience any of these complaints:

1. Menstrual problems such as pain, excessive bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles.
2. Difficulty getting pregnant even though you have frequent intercourse without contraception.

These are things that indicate a healthy and fertile uterus. Don't forget to live a healthy lifestyle to keep your uterus healthy.

If needed, Transvaginal Ultrasound is available in Plans , please click the link to order it.

Hopefully it's useful, OK!

Written by: dr. Florence Adeline

Reference:

Fertility and Sterility. The uterus and fertility

The Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. Normal position of the uterus