The septate uterus is a congenital uterine malformation in which the uterus is divided in two due to the presence of a membrane, also called a septum. The presence of this septum does not lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, however it can be identified during routine examinations.
Despite not causing symptoms, a septate uterus can make pregnancy difficult and, therefore, it is important that it is identified and treated according to the gynecologist’s guidance, and a surgical procedure may be indicated to remove the wall that separates the uterus. .
How to identify
The septate uterus in most cases does not lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, and is only identified through routine gynecological examinations. Furthermore, when a woman has difficulty getting pregnant or has several miscarriages, it may be indicative of uterine changes.
Therefore, to identify the septate uterus, the gynecologist may recommend imaging tests such as ultrasound, endocervical curettage and hysterosalpingography.
The septate uterus is often confused with the bicornuate uterus, which is when the uterus is not fully connected to the cervix, and the differentiation between these two changes can be made through 3D ultrasound or through an exam called hysteroscopy. See more about the bicornuate uterus.
Is it possible to get pregnant with a septate uterus?
Pregnancy with a septate uterus is, in most cases, difficult, because as the uterus is divided, there are not enough blood vessels to allow the embryo to implant in the uterus, meaning there is no pregnancy.
If there has been implantation, the presence of the septum can interfere with the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, which can directly interfere with its development and favor the occurrence of spontaneous abortions. Furthermore, as the space is smaller due to the presence of the septum, the baby’s growth may also be hampered.
How the treatment is carried out
Treatment for a septate uterus must be guided by a gynecologist and is normally carried out through surgery that removes the wall that divides the uterus into two parts. This removal is done through a surgery called surgical hysteroscopy, where a device is introduced through the vagina into the uterus to remove the septum.
This procedure is carried out under general or spinal anesthesia, lasts around 30 minutes to 1 hour, and the woman can go home on the day of the surgery. However, it is normal for vaginal bleeding to occur for up to 6 weeks after surgery, and it is usually necessary to take medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the uterus, as well as antibiotics to prevent infections.
The precautions that should be taken in the 2 weeks following surgery are to avoid physical exertion, such as picking up heavy objects or working out, not having intimate contact and avoiding swimming in the pool or in the sea. If you experience fever, pain, heavy vaginal bleeding or foul-smelling discharge, you should seek medical advice.
In general, around 8 weeks after surgery, the woman is re-evaluated to check the results of the surgery and be cleared to get pregnant. Check out more details about surgical hysteroscopy.
