Double uterus

Definition

What is double uterus?

A double uterus is a rare congenital abnormality. 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 structure. A double uterus may have one opening (cervix) into one vagina, or each uterine cavity may have a cervix. In many cases, a thin wall of tissue runs down the length of the vagina, dividing it into two separate openings.

Women who have a double uterus often have successful pregnancies. But the condition can increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

How common is double uterus?

Double uterus is very rare. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of double uterus?

A double uterus often causes no symptoms. The condition may be discovered during a regular pelvic exam or during imaging tests to determine the cause of repeated miscarriages.

Women who have a double vagina along with a double uterus may initially consult a doctor for menstrual bleeding that isn’t stopped by a tampon. In these situations, the woman has placed a tampon in one vagina, but blood is still escaping from the second uterus and vagina.

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When should I see my doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following:

• A menstrual flow despite the insertion of a tampon
• Severe pain with menstruation
• Repeated miscarriages

Causes

What causes double uterus?

Doctors aren’t certain why some fetuses develop a double uterus and others don’t. A genetic component may be a factor because this rare condition sometimes runs in families.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for double uterus?

Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

Diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.

How is double uterus diagnosed?

• A double uterus may be diagnosed during a routine pelvic exam when your doctor observes a double cervix or feels an abnormally shaped uterus. If your doctor suspects an abnormality, he or she may recommend any of the following tests:
• This test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. To capture the images, a device called a transducer is either pressed against your abdominal skin or inserted into your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound). Both types of ultrasound may be done to get the best view. A 3-D ultrasound may be used where available.
• The sonohysterogram (son-o-HIS-ter-o-gram), an ultrasound scan, is done after fluid is injected through a tube into your uterus by way of your vagina and cervix. This allows your doctor to look for problems in the shape of your uterus.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MRI machine looks like a tunnel that has both ends open. You lie down on a movable table that slides into the opening of the tunnel. This painless procedure uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the inside of your body.
• During a hysterosalpingography (his-tur-o-sal-ping-GOG-ruh-fe), a special dye is injected into your uterus through your cervix. As the dye moves through your reproductive organs, X-rays are taken to determine the shape and size of your uterus and whether your fallopian tubes are open.

How is double uterus treated?

Most women with double uterus do not need special treatment for the condition, but generally, women with this condition should make sure to work closely with a doctor during pregnancy to watch for signs of preterm labor or other risks to the baby.

These women will likely need an obstetrician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies.

Before conceiving, a woman with a double uterus should discuss her plans to become pregnant with her physician. Doctors may perform surgery to unify the uterus or to remove an underdeveloped uterus if a woman is having health problems.

Surgery is rarely performed for the condition, though. It’s usually reserved for women who’ve had repeated pregnancy problems. A physician may also help such women take additional steps to lower their risk of complications during pregnancy, labor and delivery.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage double uterus?

Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.