Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility During the Holidays
The holidays can be emotional, especially if you’ve been struggling with infertility. Here are some ways you can prioritize your well-being.
Uterine Septum
Uterine septum is an anomaly of the female reproductive system that is associated with infertility and miscarriage
Uterine septum is a defect that occurs during development of the uterus that causes the uterine cavity to be divided, partially or completely.
What is uterine septum?
Uterine septum is the most common type of uterine anomaly. It occurs when part or all of the mullerian ducts – two embryonic ducts that develop into the vagina, uterus and fallopian tubes – fail to reabsorb either partially or completely, resulting in muscle or tissue that divides the uterus partly or fully into two separate cavities.
Diagnosing uterine septum
Since there are usually no symptoms, uterine septum is often discovered through the following diagnostic tests:
- Transvaginal ultrasound – an ultrasound exam that is done through the vagina using a special probe
- MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of the uterus
- Hysteroscopy – a scope inserted through the cervix and into the uterus to examine the inside portion of the organ
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)- an x-ray test that uses dye to test the structure and function of the uterus and fallopian tubes
Infertility related to uterine septum
Many women with uterine septum are able to become pregnant, although carrying the pregnancy to term may be difficult. When infertility is an issue, it is likely due to problems with implantation, since the tissue in a uterine septum has poor blood supply.
Miscarriage and uterine septum
Even when pregnancy does occur in uterine septum, outcome is often poor, especially when the site of implantation is the uterine septum itself. The poor blood supply is not enough to nourish the embryo and miscarriage often occurs as a result.
Although some women with uterine septum do experience successful pregnancy and delivery, a large number suffer miscarriage, and repeat miscarriage is common. The condition is also associated with a higher risk of preterm delivery.
Treatment of uterine septum
Being diagnosed with uterine septum doesn’t necessarily warrant surgery. However, there are some symptoms that are indications for surgical correction, including:
- Pelvic pain
- Endometriosis
- Obstruction
- Recurrent miscarriage
- History of preterm delivery
Surgical repair of the uterus (metroplasty) has been shown to be very successful in reducing infertility. Hysteroscopic surgical repair is typically a minor procedure and can often be done on an outpatient basis.
You Might Also Enjoy...
How to Talk About Infertility With Family and Friends During Gatherings
If you or someone in your family or friends circle is struggling with infertility, gatherings can be times of anxiety because of invasive questions or unwanted advice. We offer some guidance in this blog post.
What Is the Difference Between IUI and IVF?
If you’re looking for solutions to infertility, you may be recommended for intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilization (IVF). But what’s the difference? Keep reading to find out.
Can I Get Pregnant If I Have PCOS?
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome can impact your fertility, making it difficult to get pregnant. Here’s what you need to know.
What Can I Expect Before, During, and After the Egg Harvesting Procedure?
Do you need to harvest your eggs to freeze them or before beginning a round of IVF? Here’s a breakdown of the procedure to help you be informed before you start the process. Keep reading.
I've Had Multiple Miscarriages: Should I Stop Trying?
A miscarriage is devastating, and multiple miscarriages only expand and prolong your grief. Should you give up, or should you keep trying for a baby? Keep reading for some answers.