{{Short description|A congenital disorder of the uterus}}
{{Short description|A congenital disorder of the uterus}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
[[File:Uterine malformation.jpg|thumb|Diagram of a uterine septum]]
[[File:Uterine malformation.jpg|thumb|Diagram of a uterine septum]]
A '''uterine septum''' is a congenital malformation of the uterus where a fibrous or muscular wall divides the uterine cavity. This condition can affect a woman's reproductive capabilities and is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and infertility.
A '''uterine septum''' is a congenital malformation of the uterus where a fibrous or muscular wall divides the uterine cavity. This condition can affect a woman's reproductive capabilities and is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and infertility.
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==Causes==
==Causes==
The condition arises during fetal development when the [[ducts]] fail to fuse completely, resulting in a septum. The exact cause of this failure is not well understood, but it is considered a developmental anomaly.
The condition arises during fetal development when the [[Mullerian ducts]] fail to fuse completely, resulting in a septum. The exact cause of this failure is not well understood, but it is considered a developmental anomaly.
==Symptoms==
==Symptoms==
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==Related pages==
==Related pages==
* [[Uterine malformation]]
* [[Uterine malformation]]
* [[duct anomalies]]
* [[Mullerian duct anomalies]]
* [[Reproductive system]]
* [[Reproductive system]]
==References==
* Grimbizis, G. F., et al. "The management of septate uterus: a comprehensive review." Human Reproduction Update 22.6 (2016): 763-785.
* Pellerito, J. S., et al. "Diagnosis of uterine anomalies: relative accuracy of MR imaging, endovaginal sonography, and hysterosalpingography." Radiology 183.3 (1992): 795-800.
[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Uterine malformations]]
[[Category:Uterine malformations]]
== Uterine Septum ==
A '''uterine septum''' is a congenital malformation of the [[uterus]] where a fibrous or muscular partition divides the uterine cavity. This condition is a type of [[Müllerian duct anomaly]], which occurs during fetal development when the [[Müllerian ducts]] fail to fuse properly.
=== Anatomy and Development ===
The [[uterus]] is a hollow, muscular organ located in the female pelvis. It is responsible for housing and nourishing a developing [[fetus]] during [[pregnancy]]. The development of the uterus begins with the formation of the [[Müllerian ducts]], which are paired embryonic structures. Normally, these ducts fuse to form a single uterine cavity. However, in the case of a uterine septum, the fusion is incomplete, resulting in a partition that divides the cavity.
=== Types of Uterine Septum ===
There are two main types of uterine septum:
* '''Partial Septum''': This type of septum does not extend all the way to the [[cervix]]. It may only partially divide the uterine cavity.
* '''Complete Septum''': This type extends from the top of the uterus down to the [[cervix]], completely dividing the uterine cavity.
=== Clinical Significance ===
A uterine septum can have significant implications for [[reproductive health]]. It is associated with an increased risk of [[miscarriage]], [[infertility]], and [[preterm birth]]. Women with a uterine septum may experience recurrent pregnancy loss due to inadequate blood supply to the septum, which can affect [[embryo]] implantation and growth.
=== Diagnosis ===
The diagnosis of a uterine septum is typically made using imaging techniques such as:
* [[Ultrasound]]: A non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images of the uterus.
* [[Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)]]: Provides detailed images of the uterine structure.
* [[Hysterosalpingography]]: An X-ray procedure that involves injecting a contrast dye into the uterine cavity to visualize its shape.
* [[Hysteroscopy]]: A procedure that involves inserting a small camera through the cervix to directly view the inside of the uterus.
=== Treatment ===
The primary treatment for a uterine septum is surgical removal, known as [[hysteroscopic metroplasty]]. This procedure involves using a hysteroscope to visualize the septum and then cutting it to create a single uterine cavity. This surgery can improve reproductive outcomes and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
=== Prognosis ===
With appropriate treatment, many women with a uterine septum can achieve successful pregnancies. The prognosis depends on the extent of the septum and the presence of any other reproductive issues.
== See Also ==
* [[Müllerian duct anomalies]]
* [[Recurrent miscarriage]]
* [[Infertility]]
== References ==
* [1] American Society for Reproductive Medicine. "Uterine Septum: Diagnosis and Treatment." Fertility and Sterility, 2020.
* [2] Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. "Müllerian Duct Anomalies: A Guide for Clinicians." Fertility and Sterility, 2016.
[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Gynecology]]
{{Reproductive system}}
{{Congenital disorders}}
Revision as of 03:58, 29 March 2025
A congenital disorder of the uterus
Diagram of a uterine septum
A uterine septum is a congenital malformation of the uterus where a fibrous or muscular wall divides the uterine cavity. This condition can affect a woman's reproductive capabilities and is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and infertility.
The uterine septum is classified based on the extent of the septum within the uterine cavity. It can be partial, where the septum does not reach the cervix, or complete, where the septum extends to the cervix, potentially dividing the cervix as well. The septum is composed of fibrous tissue, which is less vascular than the normal uterine tissue, leading to complications in pregnancy.
Causes
The condition arises during fetal development when the Mullerian ducts fail to fuse completely, resulting in a septum. The exact cause of this failure is not well understood, but it is considered a developmental anomaly.
Symptoms
Many women with a uterine septum are asymptomatic and may not be aware of the condition until they experience reproductive issues. Common symptoms include recurrent miscarriage, infertility, and sometimes dysmenorrhea or abnormal uterine bleeding.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a uterine septum is typically made through imaging studies. Ultrasound, particularly 3D ultrasound, is commonly used. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hysteroscopy are also effective diagnostic tools. Hysteroscopy allows direct visualization and potential treatment of the septum.
Treatment
The primary treatment for a uterine septum is surgical removal, known as a hysteroscopic metroplasty. This procedure involves the resection of the septum using a hysteroscope. The surgery is minimally invasive and has a high success rate in improving reproductive outcomes.
Prognosis
The prognosis after surgical treatment is generally good, with many women experiencing improved fertility and reduced miscarriage rates. However, the outcome can vary depending on the extent of the septum and other individual factors.
