The didelfo uterus is characterized by a rare congenital anomaly, in which the woman has two uteri, each of which may have an opening, or both have the same cervix.
Women who have a didelfo uterus can become pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy, however there is a greater risk of miscarriage or the birth of a premature baby, compared to women who have a normal uterus.
What symptoms
Generally, people with a didelfo uterus do not manifest symptoms, the problem being detected only in the gynecologist, or when the woman experiences several abortions in a row.
When the woman, in addition to having a double uterus, also has two vaginas, she realizes that during the menstrual period the bleeding does not stop when she puts a tampon on, because the bleeding continues to occur from the other vagina. In these cases, the problem can be more easily detected.
Most women with a didelfo uterus have a normal life, however the risk of suffering from infertility, miscarriages, premature births and kidney abnormalities is greater than in women with a normal uterus.
Possible causes
It is not known for sure what causes the didelfo uterus, but it is thought that this is a genetic problem since it is common to happen in several members of the same family. This anomaly is formed during the baby's development while still in the mother's womb.
What is the diagnosis
The didelfo uterus can be diagnosed by performing an ultrasound, magnetic resonance or hysterosalpingography, which is a gynecological X-ray exam, done with contrast. See how this exam is performed.
How the treatment is done
If the person has a didelfo uterus but does not show signs or symptoms or have fertility problems, treatment is generally not necessary.
In some cases, the doctor may suggest performing surgery to unite the uterus, especially if the woman also has two vaginas. This procedure can facilitate delivery.
