Uterine didelphys is a congenital abnormality that affects the development of the female reproductive system. It occurs when the two tubes that normally fuse together to form the uterus fail to do so, resulting in two separate uteruses. Each uterus has its own cervix and fallopian tube, and may also have its own vagina. Uterine didelphys is also known as double uterus or uterus duplex.
What Causes Uterine Didelphys?
The exact cause of uterine didelphys is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors or environmental influences during early foetal development. It is estimated that uterine didelphys affects about 0.3% of the population, making it one of the rarest types of uterine malformations.
What are the Symptoms of Uterine Didelphys?
Most women with uterine didelphys do not have any symptoms and may not be aware of their condition until they undergo a pelvic exam or an ultrasound for other reasons. Some possible signs and symptoms of uterine didelphys include:
- Painful or heavy periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Difficulty using tampons or menstrual cups
- Recurrent miscarriages or preterm births
- Urinary tract infections or incontinence
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
Uterine didelphys can also be associated with other congenital anomalies, such as kidney abnormalities, bladder exstrophy, vaginal agenesis, or cervical agenesis.
How to Diagnose Uterine Didelphys
The diagnosis of uterine didelphys is usually confirmed by imaging tests, such as ultrasound, MRI, or hysterosalpingography. These tests can show the shape and size of the uteruses, as well as the presence of any other abnormalities in the reproductive tract.
How to Treat Uterine Didelphys
The treatment of uterine didelphys depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's goals and preferences. Some women with uterine didelphys do not require any treatment, while others may benefit from surgical interventions to correct or improve their anatomy. Some possible surgical options include:
- Uterine septoplasty: This procedure involves removing the wall of tissue that separates the two uteruses, creating a single uterine cavity. This may improve fertility and reduce the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
- Vaginal septoplasty: This procedure involves removing the wall of tissue that divides the vagina into two canals, creating a single vaginal canal. This may improve sexual function and comfort, as well as menstrual hygiene.
- Uterine fusion: This procedure involves joining the two uteruses together, creating a single uterus with one cervix. This may reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
- Hysterectomy: This procedure involves removing one or both uteruses, along with the cervix and ovaries. This may be done for medical reasons, such as severe bleeding or infection, or for personal reasons, such as gender affirmation.
Women with uterine didelphys can have normal and healthy lives, including sexual relationships and pregnancies. However, they may face some challenges and risks, such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, cervical incompetence, placenta previa, breech presentation, or caesarean delivery. Therefore, it is important for women with uterine didelphys to consult with their healthcare providers about their condition and receive appropriate care and support throughout their reproductive journey.
Sources
- Debbo Africa: https://debbo.africa
- Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Uterus Didelphys: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23301-uterus-didelphys
- WebMD. (2023). Uterine Didelphys: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/women/uterine-didelphys-double-uterus
- Wikipedia. (2021). Uterus didelphys. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uterus_didelphys