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Inverted Uterus

by Julie S. Moldenhauer, MD

Very rarely, the uterus is turned inside out (inverted), so that it protrudes through the cervix and into or through the vagina. The uterus may be inverted if the placenta is firmly attached and doctors pull hard to remove it.

An inverted uterus is a medical emergency that must be treated promptly. Doctors return the uterus to its normal position by hand. Pain relievers, sedatives, and sometimes a general anesthetic may be needed. Most women recover fully after this procedure. Occasionally, surgery is required to return the uterus to its normal position.