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Differences in uterus shape (septate or bicornuate uterus)

Also called: Septate uterus, bicornuate uterus

Differences in uterus shape that may cause miscarriage or breech babies.

TreatmentSurgery for septum

Overview

Many people with these differences have no symptoms and have healthy pregnancies.

A septate uterus is the type most linked to miscarriage and can be fixed with surgery.

The uterus forms in a different shape before birth.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Found on imaging

Less common

  • Miscarriage

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Development.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Talk with a fertility specialist
  • Keep pregnancy checkups

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • People with repeat miscarriages: Testing helps.
  • Women with repeat miscarriages: Testing helps.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many have healthy pregnancies.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?
  • Do I need surgery before pregnancy?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Differences in uterus shape (septate or bicornuate uterus)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.