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Uterus Didelphys
Definition:
In a female fetus, the uterus starts out as two small tubes. As the fetus develops, the tubes normally join to create one larger, hollow organ — the uterus. Sometimes, however, the tubes don't join completely. Instead, each one develops into a separate cavity. This condition is called double uterus (uterus didelphys).
Each cavity in a double uterus often leads to its own cervix. Some women with a double uterus also have a duplicate or divided vagina.
Double uterus is rare — and sometimes not even diagnosed. According to one estimate, double uterus occurs in 2 percent to 4 percent of women who have normal pregnancies. The percentage may be higher in women with a history of miscarriage or premature birth.
Treatment is needed only if a double uterus causes symptoms or complications, such as pelvic pain or repeated miscarriages.
Causes:
Researchers don't know what causes double uterus. The condition is associated with kidney abnormalities, which suggests that something may influence the development of these related tubes before birth.
Symptoms:
Some women have a double uterus and never realize it — even during pregnancy and childbirth. Possible signs and symptoms may include:
- A mass in the pelvis
- Unusual pain before or during a menstrual period
- Abnormal bleeding during a period, such as blood flow despite the use of a tampon
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Dignosis:
A double uterus is often diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam when the doctor observes a double cervix or an unusually shaped uterus. If the doctor suspects an abnormality, he or she may recommend any of the following tests:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test uses a strong magnetic field to create cross-sectional images of the inside of your body.
- Ultrasound. This test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body.
- Hysterosalpingography. With this test, a special dye is injected into your uterus through your cervix. Then X-rays are taken to determine the shape and size of your uterus.
- Hysteroscopy. With this procedure, the doctor inserts a tiny tube with a light into your vagina and through your cervix. This allows the doctor to examine the inside of your uterus.
- Laparoscopy. With this surgical procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision beneath your navel and inserts a laparoscope — an illuminated, fiber-optic device — into your abdomen to examine your uterus. Laparoscopy requires general anesthesia.
Complication:
Many women with a double uterus have normal sex lives, pregnancies and deliveries. In fact, the more complete the duplication, the less likely complications are to arise. But sometimes a double uterus leads to infertility or miscarriage. A double uterus may also cause premature birth or unusual positions of the baby in the uterus, such as bottom down (breech presentation).
Treatment:
If you have a double uterus but no signs or symptoms, treatment is rarely needed. Surgery to unite a double uterus is rarely done — although other surgical procedures may help if you have a partial division within your uterus.
If you're pregnant and have a double uterus, share any concerns you may have about childbirth with your doctor. He or she may suggest ways to help prevent preterm delivery or manage labor. |
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| Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. |
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