The uterus is a reproductive organ for containing and nourishing the embryo and fetus from the time a fertilized egg implants to the time the fetus is born.

Uterine disease, injury or adhesions may result from: endocrine dysfunction, anatomic abnormalities, organic causes, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), cancer, infection, or genetic factors. Additional causes include: uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps or hyperplasia, endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), hydatidiform mole in pregnancy, or from radiation exposure.

Signs and symptoms may vary depending on the specific disease. Manifestations may include: abnormal menstrual periods; pain in the lower abdomen or back; abnormal bleeding patterns; fever; cramps; painful intercourse; infertility; or abnormal vaginal discharge, which is pink, watery, or excessively malodorous. There may be a pelvic mass, enlarged uterus, or altered urinary and bowel function. In pregnancy, the uterus may enlarge too quickly. There may be vaginal bleeding, severe nausea, vomiting or lack of fetal movement. Recurrent abortions may be reported. Passage of grape-like tissue from the vagina, or high blood pressure may be other signs and symptoms of uterine disease in pregnancy.

A complete history, and physical and pelvic examinations may be indicated. Laboratory studies; papanicolaou (PAP) smear; colposcopy; laparoscopy; hysteroscopy; conization; dilatation and curettage (D&C); staging; or biopsy may be performed to determine the cause and severity of disease. X-ray or ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may aid in the diagnosis.

Treatment may be related to the cause of disease. It may include: surgery, medications for pain and other symptoms (such as anemia or infection), as well as contraceptive or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). For cancer, radiation, chemotherapy, surgery or a combination of these may be necessary.

Pain may be chronic. There may be social isolation, sexual dysfunction, infertility, and self-esteem issues. There may be a need for long-term drug therapy for chronic infections, anemia or infertility treatment. Artificial menopause may be induced with cancer treatments. There may be residual complications of surrounding organs and multiple side effects from radiation therapy. Counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups may be indicated to assist the patient in dealing with the diagnosis. High-risk care in pregnancy may be needed.

• None.

• Natural menopause, primary amenorrhea, and pregnancy and childbirth are not disabilities for rating purposes. Chronic residuals of medical or surgical complications of pregnancy may be disabilities for rating purposes.
• When evaluating any claim involving loss or loss of use of one or more creative organs or anatomical loss of one or both breasts, refer to 38 CFR 3.350 to determine whether the Veteran may be entitled to special monthly compensation. Footnotes in the schedule indicate conditions which potentially establish entitlement to special monthly compensation; however, almost any condition in 38 CFR 4.116 might, under certain circumstances, establish entitlement to special monthly compensation.