Uterine anomalies are structural differences that form before birth. They aren’t caused by lifestyle choices or anything you did wrong. Most are harmless. Understanding them helps reduce panic, plan ahead, and ask the right questions during antenatal care.
In this article:
What Are the Different Types of Uterine Anomalies?
These shapes are usually the result of incomplete fusion of the uterus during fetal development. Here are the most commonly seen ones in clinical practice:- Septate uterus: A wall (septum) divides the uterus partially or fully. It’s the most common anomaly and also the most correctable.
- Bicornuate uterus: The uterus has two horns, forming a heart-like shape. It shares a single cervix.
- Arcuate uterus: A minor dip at the top of the uterus. It’s often considered a normal variant unless it causes problems.
- Didelphys uterus: Two separate cavities, sometimes with two cervixes or even a partial vaginal septum.
- Unicornuate uterus: Only one half of the uterus forms properly. The other side may be absent or underdeveloped.
How Can It Affect Pregnancy?
A differently shaped uterus might not impact your chances of getting pregnant, but it can affect how the pregnancy grows. Here’s how:- Early miscarriage: Especially with a septum, which may not allow proper blood supply to the embryo.
- Breech or abnormal position: The baby might not have enough space to turn head-down, leading to a transverse or breech position.
- Preterm delivery: Less space or an uneven uterine shape can sometimes trigger early labour.
- IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction): Rarely, blood flow issues or limited space may affect fetal growth.
- Caesarean section: Some uterine shapes increase the likelihood of needing a planned or emergency C-section.
What Causes These Shapes?
Most of these are congenital (present from birth), but they often remain undetected for years.- Developmental issues in the womb: The uterus forms from two ducts (called Müllerian ducts). If they don’t fuse completely, it can lead to these anomalies.
- Genetic or family history: There may be a hereditary link, though most cases are isolated.
- Associated renal issues: Rarely, anomalies like a didelphys or unicornuate uterus may occur with kidney or urinary tract differences. That’s why doctors may sometimes do a kidney scan after diagnosis.
How Is It Diagnosed in India?
Diagnosis usually happens only when a reason arises, after recurrent miscarriage, IVF failure, or during anomaly scans in pregnancy. You might hear the term during:- Transvaginal ultrasound: This is often the first clue, but it may not show the full shape.
- 3D ultrasound or pelvic MRI: Provides a clearer picture of the uterine cavity and walls.
- HSG (hysterosalpingogram): An X-ray with dye, often used in fertility testing to show the outline of the uterus and tubes.
- Hysteroscopy or laparoscopy: These are minor surgeries sometimes used to both confirm and treat the anomaly (mainly for a septum).
Can It Be Treated or Corrected?
Only some uterine shapes require treatment, and only if they’re affecting your health or pregnancy.- Septate uterus: Can often be corrected with hysteroscopic surgery. This greatly improves pregnancy outcomes.
- Bicornuate or didelphys uterus: Usually not operated on unless complications are severe. Pregnancy is monitored closely instead.
- Unicornuate uterus: Surgery is usually not possible, but extra pregnancy support may be needed.
Always work with a gynaecologist who understands uterine anomalies. Not all general OB-GYNs are trained to diagnose or manage these cases in depth.
Emotional and Practical Support
Finding out that your uterus is different can be confusing or even distressing, especially if you’re already pregnant.Here’s what helps:
- Clarify, don’t Google: A scan report mentioning “bicornuate uterus” can feel overwhelming, but it may not mean anything serious. Clarify with your doctor what it actually means for you.
- Ask about high-risk care: You might need more scans or monitoring. That doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means your doctor is being cautious.
- Find a support group: If you’ve faced pregnancy loss or IVF challenges, connecting with others who’ve had similar uterine anomalies can be comforting.
- Plan hospital delivery: If you’ve been diagnosed with an anomaly, choose a facility equipped to handle emergencies, especially if the baby is breech or growth-restricted. It’s important the hospital has a NICU because the baby might need special care.
- Prepare for emotional swings: Some women with uterine anomalies carry guilt or fear after loss. Counselling or therapy can help work through this.
FAQs on Can Uterus Shape Cause Miscarriage or C-section?
- Can I conceive naturally if I have a uterine anomaly?
Yes. Many people do. But if you’ve had repeated pregnancy losses, your doctor may suggest further tests or treatment before trying again. - Does it always require surgery?
No. Only a septate uterus is typically corrected surgically. Others are managed based on symptoms or pregnancy progress. - Will I need to deliver early?
Not always, but preterm labour risk may be slightly higher. Your doctor will monitor cervical length and fetal growth. - Can I have a normal delivery?
In some cases, yes. But if the baby is breech or the uterus is shaped in a way that affects positioning, a C-section might be safer.
