Uterine abnormality is one of the common causes of infertility in women. 20% of women face infertility due to underlying uterine conditions or anomalies. When the uterus and womb of a woman are abnormally shaped before birth, it can bring infertility and obstetric issues during the reproductive years. These abnormalities can lead to complications in the health and birth of a child. You can even be prone to irregular or no periods due to Uterine abnormality. It makes it the primary reason for infertility in women, and it has been found that 3 in 100 women gave birth with an abnormally shaped uterus.
The chance of conception or miscarriage increases with uterine abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, uterine septum, or other congenital abnormalities. Such abnormalities make it difficult for an embryo to be nurtured or implanted during pregnancy. Uterine abnormalities can be from birth that is congenital or acquired (after birth). These are the structural defects affecting fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
Several changes in the position or shape of the uterus affect the pregnancy rate and increase the risks of miscarriages, ectopic pregnancy, late miscarriage, and preterm birth. This becomes the common reason for infertility in women. Some of the congenital abnormalities are-
Septate uterus: Thin tissue wall is developed, dividing the uterus into two chambers. This septum makes it difficult to conceive or sustain a pregnancy. Septum does not make the supply of blood, making it difficult for an embryo to be implanted successfully. It often leads to early pregnancy loss and miscarriages. This is also a cause for recurrent miscarriage and is treated with a hysteroscopy to see it into the uterus. If the septum is present in the uterus, it can be removed with such a procedure. It will help women for carrying a baby and reduce the chances of infertility.
Bicornuate uterus: this is a uterus resembling a heart-shaped uterus with distinct horns, while a normal uterus generally resembles a pear shape. Women with such issues are more likely to fear infertility but can be prone to higher risks of preterm delivery. It creates problems for the development of the baby due to less space. The abnormal shape of the uterus is another cause of recurrent pregnancy loss, fetal growth, preterm delivery, and retardation of fetal growth. As the embryo is implanted in one of the two horns, the space becomes minimal for the baby’s growth.
Unicornuate uterus: it is another reason for fertility as the womb is developed half the size of a normal womb. It generally increases the risks of ectopic pregnancy, late miscarriage, and preterm birth. As the uterus is not developed correctly, the baby’s positioning is not proper, which can lead to miscarriages. It can be resolved with a cesarean section. Moreover, women with hemi uterus experience severe pain due to blood trapping during the mensuration cycle. It can be diagnosed with ultrasound, other imaging, or a laparoscopy procedure.
Arcuate uterus: It is minor irregularities in the shape of the uterus as it is indented. Women with an Accurate uterus do not affect pregnancy and bring any severe complications during the period, but if any miscarriage occurs, an arcuate uterus is the reason. Generally, it is a variation of the uterus instead of any irregularities. Women with such problems are scarce.
T-shaped uterus: Under this, the shape of the uterus is similar to the letter T and observed when the woman is exposed to DES. It leads to implantation failure and increases the risks of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and preterm delivery.
Generally, no symptoms are visible or experienced by women for Uterine abnormalities but some can be diagnosed after medical examination such as-
Most women cannot diagnose the abnormal shape of the uterus or womb as no physical symptoms are associated with it. You might learn about uterine abnormality when you find it difficult to conceive or have had your ultrasound after a miscarriage. Moreover, it can also be diagnosed after recurrent miscarriages or gynecological issues such as unwanted bleeding. If you find any issues in conceiving or getting pregnant, it is always better to visit a doctor and have an investigation.
Treatment for uterine abnormalities are-
The treatment for Uterine abnormality relies upon the severity of the uterine abnormality and the woman’s circumstances. Some women don’t require any treatment for uterine abnormalities, while others require surgery and other interventions.
Surgery: it is the procedure that has its dependency on the specific abnormality. For example, a woman with a septate uterus may have surgery to remove the dividing wall of tissue.
Medication– Medication or hormonal therapy is also a good prevention for uterine abnormalities as it helps improve fertility. For example, a woman with endometriosis may be prescribed medication to reduce inflammation and pain. Similarly, a woman with a hypoplastic uterus may be prescribed fertility drugs to help her conceive.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART): It is another essential treatment that could help resolve infertility issues by handling embryos and eggs. For example, IVF can help women with uterine abnormalities to conceive.
Pregnancy management: It ensures the chances in the lifestyle and improves fertility in women with uterine abnormalities. For example, a woman with a septate uterus may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise or activities that could pressure the uterus.
Uterine abnormalities are not known that easily, and if you are troubled to find out the reason behind your infertility, “Meet our specialist at Aveya IVF Centre.” Experience professionals at Aveya IVF will diagnose all the possibilities regarding infertility, and the best treatment is provided as per the requirements and circumstances.