A retroverted uterus is a condition where the uterus is tilted or tipped backward towards the spine instead of forward towards the abdomen. It is also known as a tipped uterus, retroflexed uterus, or uterine retrodisplacement. This condition is common, and about one quarter of women have a retroverted uterus. In most cases, a retroverted uterus does not cause any serious health problems, but it can cause discomfort during sex and painful menstruation. Some women may experience symptoms such as pain in the vagina or lower back during sexual intercourse, pain during menstruation, trouble inserting tampons, increased urinary frequency or feelings of pressure in the bladder, urinary tract infections, mild incontinence, and protrusion of the lower abdomen.

A retroverted uterus can be diagnosed by routine pelvic examination, and sometimes a woman may discover that she has a retroverted uterus during a Pap test. An ultrasound exam can accurately determine the exact position of the uterus. Treatment is not needed most of the time, and underlying disorders, such as endometriosis or adhesions, should be treated as needed. In rare cases, a retroverted uterus may cause pain or discomfort, and in some cases, it may be caused by endometriosis, salpingitis, or pressure from a growing tumor.

A retroverted uterus does not usually affect the viability of a pregnancy, and in most cases, it does not interfere with pregnancy. After the first trimester, the expanding uterus lifts out of the pelvis and, for the remainder of the pregnancy, assumes the typical forward-tipped position. However, a retroverted uterus may create more pressure on the bladder during the first trimester, which may cause either increased urinary frequency or feelings of pressure in the bladder.