Uterine didelphys, also known as a
double uterus, is a rare congenital condition where a female has two separate uterine cavities, each with its own cervix and, often, a double vagina. This condition results from the incomplete fusion of the Müllerian ducts during embryonic development.
Uterine didelphys is a rare condition, occurring in approximately 1 in 2,000 women. It is one of several types of Müllerian duct anomalies, which also include bicornuate uterus and septate uterus.
Many women with uterine didelphys do not experience any symptoms and may be unaware of their condition until they undergo a pelvic exam or imaging studies for unrelated reasons. However, some women may experience:
Recurrent miscarriages
Premature birth
Difficulty conceiving
Menstrual irregularities
Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as
ultrasound,
MRI, or
hysterosalpingography. A pelvic exam may also reveal the presence of a double cervix and/or a vaginal septum.
Women with uterine didelphys may have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy, including:
Recurrent miscarriages
Preterm labor
Abnormal fetal positioning
Need for cesarean section
However, many women with this condition can and do have successful pregnancies, often with careful monitoring and management by a healthcare provider.
Treatment is not always necessary unless the condition is causing significant symptoms or complications. In cases where treatment is required, options may include:
Surgical removal of a vaginal septum to facilitate childbirth
Reconstructive surgery to unify the two uteri into a single cavity (rarely performed)
Yes, some women may experience
menstrual irregularities such as heavy bleeding or painful periods. These symptoms can often be managed with medication or other medical treatments.
The prognosis for women with uterine didelphys varies depending on the severity of their symptoms and any associated reproductive issues. With proper medical care and monitoring, many women lead healthy lives and have successful pregnancies.
Uterine didelphys may be associated with other
congenital anomalies, such as renal abnormalities. Thus, it is often recommended that women diagnosed with this condition undergo a renal ultrasound to rule out kidney issues.
