Understanding Changes in My Uterus
Hello! I’m 21 years old and recently received the results from a transvaginal ultrasound, which left me feeling a bit perplexed. Since I was around 18 or 19, I have experienced irregular periods that are rather unusual. Although they aren't painful, their unpredictability has been quite concerning. The bleeding has often been a dark brown color and rather thick, deviating from the typical bright red. I had an ultrasound at 19 due to these symptoms, but the findings at that time were considered normal. Recently, I underwent another ultrasound after experiencing my period three times within one month along with changes in bleeding patterns and intermittent pain in the lower left region of my abdomen over the past couple of months. I still notice the strange brown discharge, but now there is also a more watery red blood, without any clots, which tends to soak through pads, leaving only faint pink stains on the surface. According to the report, my uterus appears smaller than expected, contains some fluid, and has a thinner endometrial lining. However, the aspect that particularly concerns me is the noted deviation of the uterus, especially since I find it challenging to interpret ultrasound results accurately and am unsure about its implications. I have been using the Implanon contraceptive implant for over a year and a half, and it was advised that this should not be influencing my recent symptoms. For further context, I have included summaries of both ultrasound examinations I had at ages 19 and 21. **First Ultrasound - December 26, 2022** **Uterus:** Position: Midline, anteverted Size: 6.6 cm (longitudinal) Shape: Normal morphology, with regular contours Myometrium: No significant changes in echotexture Endometrium: Appears normal Ovaries: Presence of small follicular cysts Largest cyst: 13 mm on the left (functioning) Douglas Pouch (posterior cul-de-sac): No free fluid detected **Second Ultrasound - July 2, 2025** **Uterus:** Position: Anteverted with left lateral deviation Size: Longitudinal: 56.8 mm; Anteroposterior: 23.5 mm; Transverse: 32.2 mm Contours: Regular Myometrium: No significant changes recorded Endometrium: Thin and regular (“filiform”) Endoluminal fluid layer observed at the transition of the lower uterine body and isthmus Ovaries: Normal size with a few small follicular cysts on both sides Largest cysts: 11.3 mm (left), 8.1 mm (right) Douglas Pouch (posterior cul-de-sac): Small amount of free fluid noted I appreciate any insights or clarifications regarding these findings and what they might mean for my health.
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 10:20:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are understandably concerned about the changes in your menstrual cycle and the findings from your recent ultrasound. I’ll break down the key points from your situation and provide some insights that might help clarify what you’re experiencing.
Main Points
- Menstrual Changes: Irregular and unpredictable periods, along with different bleeding patterns (including dark brown and watery red blood), can be distressing.
- Ultrasound Findings: Your recent ultrasound indicates a smaller uterus with a thinner endometrial lining and some fluid present, along with a noted lateral deviation.
- Contraceptive Impact: The Implanon implant is generally not expected to cause significant changes in these ultrasound findings, though it can affect menstruation.
Explanation
-
Irregular Menstrual Cycle: Changes in your menstrual cycle, including the color and flow of bleeding, can be influenced by several factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, weight changes, or the contraceptive you use. Since you’ve had irregular periods since 18 or 19, it might be indicative of a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal fluctuations.
-
Ultrasound Findings: A uterus that is smaller and has a thinner endometrial lining might suggest various conditions. However, the presence of fluid could indicate several benign issues, such as follicular activity in the ovaries or other transient conditions. The left lateral deviation of the uterus is not uncommon and may not be clinically significant unless associated with symptoms.
Next Steps
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of your menstrual cycles over the next couple of months. Note any changes in bleeding patterns, pain, or other symptoms to identify any trends.
-
Self-Care Practices: Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing stress, as these can influence menstrual regularity.
-
Consultation: Given your ongoing symptoms and the recent ultrasound findings, consider arranging a follow-up appointment with a healthcare provider (like a gynecologist). Present the history of your symptoms and the ultrasound results. They might consider additional tests, like hormone level assessments or an examination of the fluid, to provide a clearer picture.
-
Educate Yourself: Research conditions that could relate to your symptoms, such as PCOS or endometriosis, which can present with irregular periods and pelvic pain. Understanding these can help in discussions with your healthcare provider.
A follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential for personalized advice since they can give insights tailored to your results and symptoms. Remember, your health matters, and seeking clarity is a strong and responsible step. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further information!
Related Questions
Challenges with Vitamin D and Iron Absorption
In early 2024, at the age of 23, I underwent my first comprehensive blood test as an adult and discovered that I was low in both vitamin D and iron. In response, I began a regimen of supplements, taking 10,000 IU of vitamin D and 65 mg of iron daily, although I occasionally missed some doses. I ensured to take my vitamin D with meals and paired my iron intake with vitamin C to enhance absorption. Fast forward a year when I had another blood test done. To my surprise, the results indicated that my levels remained largely unchanged, with ferritin at 51 and vitamin D at 45. I am pretty sure my iron levels stayed the same while my vitamin D may have actually decreased. Additionally, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism earlier in 2024 and have been managing it with NP thyroid medication. This makes me wonder about the underlying issue. Despite my consistent supplementation, why aren't these vitamins being absorbed properly? Could this indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue? What steps can be taken to resolve this?
What Could This Be? Should I Visit My Doctor?
Hello everyone, I would truly value your thoughts on an issue I'm experiencing. Some days ago, I discovered a dark bump on the side of my heel that has become quite tender while walking. I can't recall any incident where I might have injured my foot or stepped on anything. This bump wasn't present a week prior. Today, the size of the bump appears to have increased, and there's a bit more discomfort, yet I am still able to walk without any major issues. It's definitely not a blister, as I have already tested it with a sterile needle, and there was no fluid or blood. I hesitate to reach out to my doctor if this isn't something to be overly concerned about. I intended to share some pictures, but I’ve realized that the link doesn't function, so I’ll post the images in the comments section shortly. A little about myself: - Age: 26, Female, Caucasian - Weight: 52.3 kg, Height: 172 cm - No significant medical history - Former smoker - quit four years ago; currently, I use nicotine vapes - I occasionally take ibuprofen, but it’s been weeks since my last dose; no other medications or supplements in my routine Not sure if this is pertinent, but I have tested positive for HPV twice and plan to have follow-up checks next year.
Seeking Clarity on My ECG Results
Three months prior, I underwent an ECG, and I am trying to understand the findings I received, which are as follows: sinus tachycardia, possible enlargement of the left atrium, an abnormal T-wave, and a recommendation to consider anterior ischemia. I am a 28-year-old woman, measuring 5’4” in height and weighing 180 pounds. I neither smoke nor consume alcohol, and I do not engage in vaping or any drug use. Additionally, I am not on any medications and have no known allergies. This ECG was performed during an emergency room visit, and I was advised to consult with my primary care doctor, which is scheduled for tomorrow. I am just looking for some clarity regarding these results.
Understanding Steroid-Induced Changes on the Penile Head
Is the condition I’m experiencing permanent? A couple of years ago, I applied hydrocortisone 1% to the area for a few days, and soon after, it appeared like this, with no significant improvement since then. I can’t help but feel anxious about it; although I used only a small quantity for a short period, I've read that recovery can take several years. Now that it has been two years, I'm becoming increasingly concerned that the damage may be irreversible. Additionally, I have noticed white and brown spots in that region. I am a 30-year-old male with no regular medications and I do not smoke. I went through a stressful period which affected blood circulation in the area, resulting in some unusual symptoms. A healthcare provider recommended using a steroid cream to alleviate the issues; however, after observing the changes, I visited another doctor. They mentioned that the appearance was merely due to dryness and suggested continuing with steroid cream, but I opted to refrain as I suspect it could be the cause of my current predicament.
What Could This Lip Issue Be?
Am I experiencing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)? I’m currently around an individual who has been in contact with someone confirmed to have HFMD, yet this person shows no signs of the illness. I’m a 30-year-old female; there’s no fever present, and I’m not experiencing any itching either. Additionally, I have a singular canker sore that has developed.