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The retroverted uterus: ignored to date but core to prolapse

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Abstract

The retroverted uterus has been largely ignored in urogynaecological research to date. The prevalence of the retroverted uterus is 79% more common in the urogynaecological patient population (34%) than in the general gynaecological population (19%). Its diagnosis requires the use of (a) transvaginal ultrasound with (b) an empty bladder. Recent data demonstrate that the prevalence of grade 2–4 uterine prolapse for a retroverted uterus is 4.5 times that for an anteverted uterus. Alternatively, 69% grade 2–4 uterine prolapse involves the retroverted uterus. The retroverted uterus, when diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasound (bladder empty), is far more common in urogynecology patients due to their higher incidence of prolapse.

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Acknowledgements

The literature search of Vanessa Logan, the clinical assistance of fellow nurses Louise Verity and Serena Schulz, the ultrasound review of subspecialist in gynaecological ultrasound, Glen McNally, and the comments of colleagues including Dr. Surya Krishnan are gratefully acknowledged.

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Correspondence to Bernard T. Haylen.

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Haylen, B.T. The retroverted uterus: ignored to date but core to prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 17, 555–558 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-005-0051-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-005-0051-0

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