Bicornuate Uterus: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Bicornuate Uterus: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A bicornuate uterus is a congenital condition where the uterus has two horns or chambers instead of the usual single cavity. While this variation is often asymptomatic, it can sometimes lead to fertility challenges or complications during pregnancy.

Causes of Bicornuate Uterus

The exact cause of a bicornuate uterus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a developmental abnormality that occurs during fetal development. It is thought to be caused by a failure of the Müllerian ducts, which are two tubes that fuse together to form the uterus, to fully fuse.

Types of Bicornuate Uterus

There are several types of bicornuate uterus, including:

Complete bicornuate uterus: The uterus is completely divided into two separate horns, each with its own cervix and fallopian tubes.

Partial bicornuate uterus: The uterus has a septum that partially divides it into two horns.

Septate uterus: The uterus has a complete septum that divides it into two separate cavities, but both cavities share a single cervix.

Cleft uterus: The uterus has a Y-shaped configuration with two horns that are partially fused at the top.

Symptoms of Bicornuate Uterus

Many women with a bicornuate uterus experience no symptoms at all. However, some women may have the following symptoms:

Infertility: A bicornuate uterus can increase the risk of infertility due to the difficulty of a fertilized egg implanting in the uterine wall.

Miscarriage: Women with a bicornuate uterus may have a higher risk of miscarriage, particularly in the first trimester.

Premature birth: The risk of premature birth is also increased in women with a bicornuate uterus.

Pelvic pain: Some women with a bicornuate uterus may experience pelvic pain or discomfort.

Diagnosis of Bicornuate Uterus

A bicornuate uterus can be diagnosed through a variety of tests, including:

Pelvic exam: A gynecologist can perform a physical exam to check the shape and size of the uterus.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This test involves injecting dye into the uterus and fallopian tubes to visualize their shape and structure.

Sonography: Ultrasound imaging can help to visualize the uterus and its internal structure.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI can provide a more detailed image of the uterus and its surrounding structures.

Treatment for Bicornuate Uterus

The treatment for a bicornuate uterus depends on the severity of the condition and the woman's symptoms. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, if a woman is experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriages, surgical treatment may be recommended.   

Surgical treatment for a bicornuate uterus typically involves removing the septum that divides the uterus into two horns. This procedure can be performed through laparoscopy or open surgery.

Infertility Treatment for Bicornuate Uterus

Women with a bicornuate uterus who are struggling with infertility may benefit from assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the embryos into the uterus.

New World Fertility Centre: Your Partner in Reproductive Health

At New World Fertility Centre in Delhi, our team of experienced gynecologists and fertility specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for women with a bicornuate uterus. We can help you understand your condition, assess your fertility, and explore the most appropriate treatment options.

If you have any concerns about a bicornuate uterus or its potential impact on your fertility, please don't hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

1. What is a bicornuate uterus?

A bicornuate uterus is a congenital condition where the uterus has two horns or chambers instead of the usual single cavity.

2. What causes a bicornuate uterus?

The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be a developmental abnormality that occurs during fetal development.

3. Does a bicornuate uterus always cause problems?

Many women with a bicornuate uterus experience no symptoms at all. However, some may have fertility challenges or complications during pregnancy.

4. What are the symptoms of a bicornuate uterus?

Symptoms may include infertility, miscarriage, premature birth, and pelvic pain.

5. How is a bicornuate uterus diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a pelvic exam, hysterosalpingography, sonography, or MRI.

6. Can a bicornuate uterus be treated?

In some cases, surgical treatment may be recommended to remove the septum that divides the uterus.