Retroverted and anteverted uterus: what impact on your period? And which menstrual products should you use?

You may have heard about a retroverted uterus or an anteverted uterus during a gynecological exam or while chatting with friends. But do you really know what it means for your body, your period or a possible pregnancy?

An anteverted uterus is a uterus that tilts slightly forward, toward the bladder. This is the most common position—in other words, the standard position of the uterus. Nearly 80% of women have it. Uterine anteversion is a natural variant of female anatomy, often linked to the shape of your pelvis or the position of your ligaments.

It can be identified during a gynecological exam (pelvic exam or ultrasound).

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• When talking about an anteverted uterus, you may also see the term anteflexed. While “anteverted” refers to the orientation, “anteflexed” refers to the angle between the uterus and the cervix.
• 7 to 8 out of 10 women have an anteverted uterus.

A retroverted uterus is a uterus tilted slightly backward, toward the rectum and spine. Less common than the anteverted position, about 25% of women have a retroverted uterus. Again, this is not an abnormality but an anatomical variant. You can have a retroverted uterus from birth or as a result of childbirth, a cesarean section, fibroids, endometriosis, or menopause.

GOOD TO KNOW: 

• 1 in 4 women has a retroverted uterus.

• In case of pregnancy, no particular complications. This position is perfect for carrying a baby.
• This position of the uterus does not cause menstrual pain.
• The anteverted position does not cause discomfort during sexual intercourse.

• You may feel the need to pee frequently, especially at the end of pregnancy, because there can be pressure on the bladder.
• In rare cases, an anteverted uterus can contribute to a slightly heavier menstrual flow (but this is not always the case!).

• If you’re pregnant, no problem – your uterus naturally straightens as the pregnancy progresses. A retroverted uterus does not prevent you from getting pregnant. 

• A retroverted uterus can worsen dysmenorrhea (period pain), especially cramps in the lower back. It’s not the cause of the pain, but it can make it worse. The uterus may put pressure on the uterosacral ligaments. Uterine mobility is also reduced.
• In rare cases, discomfort or pain may occur during sex. Pain during and after intercourse is called dyspareunia. With a retroverted uterus, the cervix is more sensitive if penetration is deep (missionary, woman-on-top, doggy style).
• With a retroverted uterus, a woman may experience menstrual retention. The menstrual flow then drains more slowly.
• Fitting an IUD (coil) can be a bit more technical, but it’s not impossible in the case of a retroverted uterus.
• Finally, a retroverted uterus can cause constipation or even dyschezia (pain when passing stools).

Generally, with an anteverted uterus, periods are normal to heavy (the blood flows more easily towards the vagina). There are no particular symptoms with an anteverted uterus.

Which menstrual products do we recommend for you?

Good news, you’ve got options!

• You can wear a menstrual cup. This internal period protection is particularly great for collecting heavier but also normal flows. It’s also popular with swimmers and athletes. The cup works well with the “forward” position of an anteverted uterus. Choose a soft cup (like the Louloucup Turquoise) for optimal comfort and easy use.
• You can also absolutely wear period panties. And you’ve got options! Thong, string, high‑waisted, shorty, seamless or lace – treat yourself! Washable, absorbent period panties are the ideal alternative to a cup if you’re not a fan of internal products. A heavy‑flow period panty (with high protection at the front and back) is really perfect for the night.
• Pads, tampons, panty liners – you can of course still use disposable period products. They’re always handy (but they’re more polluting and more expensive). 

That depends on each person, of course. With a retroverted uterus, some women may have more painful periods but also lighter ones (the blood takes a bit longer to flow out, which can make the period seem longer). Again, this is not a hard-and-fast rule.

Which menstrual products are recommended if you have a retroverted uterus?

• You can wear a menstrual cup. Tip: position it a bit lower than usual for a better fit. And make sure you choose a good-quality, fairly firm cup.
• You can pair this cup with period panties. These take over especially at night. Made from organic cotton, they’re soft. With a great fit, they’re very discreet. They’re a real joy to wear, especially if you experience menstrual pain. 
• For washable, eco-friendly period protection, you can round out your routine with a menstrual swimsuit for swimming, a menstrual disc or even a menstrual sponge.