Prevalence of uterine malformations and their impact on fertility

Abstract

Aim: Uterine malformations belong to the most common congenital abnormalities within the female reproductive system. Their mean prevalence in the general population is 2-4%. The incidence of uterine malformation leads to impaired fertility and a number of obstetric complications such as threatening preterm delivery, pelvic and transverse presentation, premature departure of amniotic fluid, intrauterine growth restriction, threatening rupture of the uterus, caesarean section. The aim of this review is to analyze the influence of an individual uterine malformation on female fertility. Material and methods: The study involved 124 women hospitalized at Research Institute of the Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital in Lodz between the years 1994-2007. The patients were divided into 6 groups on the basis of the diagnosed defect. Results and conclusion: In our study, the most common defect was uterus bicornis, diagnosed in 46,7% of cases. The worst obstetric outcome was found among patients with septate uterus. The highest number of miscarriages and fertility problems occurs among those women. Nevertheless, there are positive data on the treatment of this defect. It would be recommendable to extend the diagnosis of the uterine malformations, especially in women with fertility problems, because early diagnosis and appropriate treatment allow to obtain satisfactory obstetric outcomes.