Well first of all, what is a tilted uterus and “do I have one?”
A tilted uterus is a uterus that curves in a backwards position at the cervix instead of a forward position. A tilted uterus is usually not a problem. Some people aren’t even aware that they have a tilted uterus until a gynecologist tells them so.
About 30 percent of people with a vagina have a tilted uterus. Unless you’ve gotten this fun fact from your gyno, you probably have no idea which way your uterus faces . If you’re curious, simply ask your gyno during your next exam.
Having a tilted uterus doesn’t interfere with sensation or pleasure. It can, however, make sex painful. During vigorous sex, or sex with deep thrusting, objects can push against the walls of the vagina, bumping into the uterus or ovaries. This can cause pain, tears, or bruising. The ligaments that support the uterus can get stretched or moved in a different direction than the uterus which can also cause pain or discomfort during sex.
Do I have a tilted uterus?
Some people with a tilted uterus experience no symptoms. Some symptoms to look for to figure out if you have a tilted uterus besides asking your doctor would be:
- pain in your 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
Exercises
Exercises that are designed to strengthen the ligaments and tendons that hold the uterus in an upright position can be helpful to those with a tilted uterus. Kegels are one example. Other exercises that may help include:
- Start by lying on your back with both knees bent and your feet on the floor. Slowly raise one knee at a time up to your chest, gently pulling it with both hands. Hold this position for 20 seconds, release, and repeat with the other leg.
- Pelvic contractions. These exercises work to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Lie on your back with your arms at your sides in a relaxed position. Inhale as you lift your butt off the ground. Hold and release as you exhale. Repeat 10-15 times.
Positions matter!
At the end of the day, learning to work with your body, in all its unique glory, is invaluable to creating a happy sex life with maximum pleasure. There are no hard rules for adjusting positions because every body is different, and every tilted uterus can be tilted a different way so you have to figure out what works for your body.
Forward facing: If you have a tilted uterus and you’ve noticed that some positions cause discomfort, there are plenty of other options that may feel great.
Deep penetration tends to be the cause of pain. So although being on top may cause pain, you should still give it a try because you can control the depth of penetration. Just try to pay attention to your body and figure out the point where the depth becomes uncomfortable. It’s also a great workout! You can also add a penetration buffer like the Ohnut, or the Sono sleeve.
You can also try a modified version of missionary with your legs straight and closer together, so that your partner is less likely to go deep and irritate your uterus while thrusting. The spooning position is also a great move because the angle provides a more shallow level of penetration.
Sometimes rear entry positions can be uncomfortable for those with a tilted uterus. Position pillows can help get your body into a position that counteracts the tilt of you uterus. The positioning pillows , or positioning aids in general not only help put you in better positions for your pleasure, but they make it easier to not only get into those positions but hold them for longer because the pillows support you.
