Congenital Uterine Anomalies

Congenital Uterine Anomalies

When a woman is in her mother’s womb, the uterus develops as two halves and fuses together before her birth. Malformations of the uterus that develop during embryonic life are known as congenital uterine anomalies. Uterine anomaly is when a woman’s uterus develops differently from other women.

Types

  • Septate: a normal external uterine surface but two endometrial cavities
  • Bicornuate: an abnormal, indented external uterine surface and two endometrial cavities
  • Arcuate: a normal external uterine surface with a 1 cm or less indentation into the endometrial cavity
  • Unicornuate: only one half of the uterus has developed
  • Didelphys: the two halves of the uterus remain separate

Causes

Normally cause of congenital uterine anomaly is unknown. Women who were exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) while in their mother’s womb are at increased risk for having a congenital uterine anomaly. At this time, there are no well-established risk factors for the development of a congenital uterine anomaly, and there is no way to prevent development of a congenital uterine anomaly.

Symptoms

These malformations normally are asymptomatic. Few women may experience menstrual pain. It is observed that congenital uterine anomalies do not cause infertility. Although these malformations are present at birth, uterine anomalies are identified during infertility or pregnancy loss examinations.

Diagnosis

Imaging studies like hysterosalpingogram, ultrasound or an MRI are done to diagnose and confirm presence of congenital uterine anomaly.

Treatment

There is no non-surgical treatment present for congenital uterine anomalies. However the doctor might recommend surgical treatment on the basis of type of anomaly, and the patient’s reproductive history. In the cases of septate uterus surgical treatment is advised. If a woman has a septate uterus and has had miscarriages, surgical treatment will improve her chances for a successful pregnancy. In rare cases, bicornuate, unicornuate and didelphic uterus require surgical treatment. Generally most women with congenital uterine anomaly do not have medical or reproductive problems. However due to congenital uterine anomalies, the chances of miscarriage or a premature delivery increase.

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