Frequency and types of congenital uterine anomalies during caesarean section: A prospective cohort study

Abstract

: Congenital uterine anomalies are due to mal-development of the mullerian ducts. They can lead to adverse reproductive outcomes like recurrent miscarriage, preterm birth, foetal malpresentation and subfertility. Prevalence of congenital uterine anomalies is 5-7%. To find the frequency and types of congenital uterine anomalies during caesarean section. This is a prospective cohort study done at SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, India from August 2020 to July 2021. 2932 women undergoing caesarean section participated in the study. The uterus was examined thoroughly. The type of uterine anomaly was noted. : There were 22 cases of congenital uterine anomalies (CUAs) during caesarean section. Prevalence of CUA was 0.75%. There was increased incidence of miscarriage(27%), pre-eclampsia (31.8%), foetal malpresentation (31.8%), foetal growth restriction (9%) and preterm caesarean section (40.9%) among women with a uterine anomaly. Commonest type of CUA was unicornuate uterus (31.8%), followed by septate (27.2%), arcuate (22.7%) and bicornuate uterus (18.1%). Poorest outcomes were seen with septate and unicornuate uteri.: Caesarean section provides an opportunity to diagnose congenital uterine anomalies. This information can be used to plan their future reproductive life. Exploring the uterus to look for uterine anomalies after delivery of the fetus and placenta has to be done and documented.