The concept of a “pooch” or belly fat has sparked intense debate on the internet, with many people claiming that it’s not fat, but rather the uterus. However, experts argue that this is a misinformed notion.
In 2020, health influencer Colleen Christensen shared an image on her Instagram account stating that the “bump” at the bottom of your stomach is actually your uterus. However, internal organs do take up space in the body, but the uterus is not located in the stomach.
Dr. Lisa Erlanger, a clinical professor of family medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, explained that the bony part of the pelvis contains the uterus and ovaries. Dr. Stephanie Trentacoste McNally, the director of OB-GYN services at the Katz Institute for Women’s Health, added that there are many layers in the region, including skin, fascia, muscle, nerves, blood vessels, connective tissue, and fat.
Unless you’re pregnant, postpartum, or have a tumor, your uterus isn’t contributing to a visible bulge. Uterine fibroids and endometriosis can cause the uterus to enlarge, leading to a noticeable bulge. However, various stages of the menstrual cycle can affect digestion and fluid balance, changing the appearance of the body.
Dr. Erlanger emphasized that weight fluctuations across our lifespans are common, and it’s healthier to live in the body size and shape we have rather than trying to make it smaller or shaped differently. She added that having compassion for ourselves and caring for our bodies as they are is essential.
The myth surrounding belly fat being linked to the uterus has sparked a rush to explain away body fat, implying that it’s not a health concern. However, experts agree that weight management is important, but it’s also essential to have compassion for ourselves and our bodies.
Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/brittanywong/is-the-tummy-pooch-the-uterus-sc