Uterus Didelphys: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Overview

• Uterus Didelphys is a rare congenital condition where a person is born with two uteruses, also known as a double uterus.
• Prevalence: Affects about 0.3% of the population.
• Each uterus is narrower than a typical one and may have its own fallopian tube and ovary.
• Some individuals may also have two cervixes and two vaginal canals.

Differences from Other Conditions

• Bicornuate Uterus: Unlike uterus didelphys, involves a single, heart-shaped uterus. More common than uterus didelphys.

Impact on Pregnancy

• Increased risk for complications such as miscarriage and preterm birth.
• It is possible to have a healthy pregnancy, but careful monitoring is necessary.

Symptoms and Causes

• Often asymptomatic; discovered during exams for other issues like miscarriage or menstrual pain.
• Symptoms, if present, may include:
  • Pain during sex
  • Painful cramping and heavy bleeding during periods
  • Frequent miscarriages and preterm labor
• Caused by the failure of the Mullerian ducts to fuse during fetal development.

Diagnosis and Tests

• Diagnosed during routine pelvic exams or if symptoms suggest the condition.
• Imaging tests include:
  • Ultrasound: Abdominal or transvaginal
  • MRI: High-quality images using magnetic fields
  • Sonohysterogram: Saline infusion with ultrasound
  • Hysterosalpingography: Dye infusion with X-ray imaging

Management and Treatment

• Most cases do not require treatment unless symptomatic.
• Surgery may be an option for recurrent pregnancy loss or painful intercourse due to a vaginal septum.

Prevention

• Cannot be prevented as it is congenital.
• The exact reason for the condition is unknown and it may or may not be hereditary.

Prognosis

• Some risk of infertility, but many can conceive and have successful pregnancies.
• Increased miscarriage risk due to the shape and size constraints of the uterus.

Living With Uterus Didelphys

• Generally leads to healthy lives without significant complications.
• Potential health risks include:
  • Pregnancy complications (miscarriage, premature birth)
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Mispositioned kidney

Key Questions for Healthcare Providers

• Causes and recommended treatments for a double uterus.
• Possibility and management of a healthy pregnancy.
• Discussion about surgical options before pregnancy.
• Awareness of additional health concerns.

Note

• Uterus didelphys is a congenital condition not caused by any actions or negligence.
• Consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice and monitoring during pregnancy.