They Told Me It Was Tilted Or Something. . .

As healthcare providers we can make off-handed comments about NORMAL aspects of someone's body. When you have been doing something so long, it's difficult to remember that not everyone has the same knowledge as you, and may be confused or terrified about a random medical term you throw out. Let’s break down some things about your anatomy that can be tilted or asymmetrical, and are totally normal.

Uterus

Anteverted - This is the most common uterine position. This means that the uterus tilts more towards your belly button than towards your spine. This position can make it easier for a provider to feel your uterus when doing a pelvic exam. People with an anteverted uterus may experience more abdominal and lower pelvic pain during menses, compared to those with a retroverted uterus.

Retroverted - This is a variant of normal uterine position. This means that the uterus tilts more towards your spine than your belly button. This can make it more difficult for a provider to feel your uterus during a pelvic exam, which is not the biggest deal in the world. If there is any concern about symptoms you have been experiencing, they can easily order an ultrasound to confirm everything is structurally normal. People with a retroverted uterus may experience more pain in their low back, anus, or posterior (back) vaginal wall during menses. 

Does this tilt mean anything about my health in the long run? 

No. However your uterus is tilted, you can still get pregnant, carry a pregnancy, and have a successful delivery. There are lots of other things that are more instrumental in pregnancy than uterine tilt. If someone has a more severe tilt it could make an IUD insertion more difficult, or make their symptoms of menses more intense. If you have had any pelvic surgeries like a C-section or laparoscopy, your tilt could be a little more complicated or severe due to scar tissue/adhesions. It is unlikely to interrupt your day to day life, but if you are concerned you should always bring it up to your provider. They may not be able to fix it, but they could offer strategies to decrease symptoms. 

Cervix

Cervixes can be tilted too. The cervix is the organ that leads from the vagina into the uterus. It opens up to allow for vaginal delivery or menstruation, but otherwise stays closed. The length of the vaginal canal can determine its location (how deep it is/how hard it is to feel with a finger or find with a speculum). Most often there is no tilt to the cervix, and it is easy to find and feel. If there is a tilt it can make speculum exams slightly more difficult. I may have to use more pressure downwards or upwards to fully visualize the cervix. Nothing dangerous to you, just an annoyance. 

Penis

There can be a tilt here too! It is incredibly normal for a penis to rest more to one side, or even have a slight curve during an erection. The exception to this rule is Peyronie’s disease, or penile fibrosis. This results in a significant bend in the penis that can make erections painful or interfere with sexual function. It is caused by injury to the penis, typically during sex or physical activity. It is possible to repair with a surgical procedure, so it’s best to consult your provider if you are concerned. 

Testicles

Last, but certainly not least, the testicles. Not so much of a tilt, but an asymmetrical hang, is common and normal. If one testicle is slightly larger or hangs slightly lower, there is absolutely no cause for concern. We are most concerned if there is a rapid change or severe difference. If one testicle quickly becomes more painful, swollen, or larger, it is time to see a healthcare provider quickly.

As always, I hope this has helped clear some things up, or maybe you just learned something new. If you have any questions or have a topic you would like me to break down, feel free to message me on social media or send me an email at noawkwardquestion@gmail.com