Unicornuate Uterus

Also known as: uterine malformation.

What is unicornuate uterus?

A Unicornuate uterus is a rare congenital (before birth) abnormality that results from the two tubelike fetal structures that normally make up the uterus not forming in the correct way. Instead of the usual two horned shape, the uterus has a curved, banana-like shape resulting in only one half of the uterus being formed (sometimes there is also a second much smaller half of a uterus present which may not be connected to the rest of the uterus). The horn-like shape of the uterus is the reason for the term “unicornuate”.

What causes unicornuate uterus?

The cause is unknown.

What are the symptoms of unicornuate uterus?

In many instances, a unicornuate uterus may go undetected until puberty or later when there is difficulty with falling pregnant, or pregnancy results in miscarriages, preterm labor or feet first deliveries (breech delivery). When menstrual bleeding into the smaller remnant of the uterus occurs, abdominal pain may be present during periods.

What are unicornuate uterus care options?

If the unicornuate uterus doesn’t cause any symptoms or complications, no treatment is required. Pregnant patients may need special attention during pregnancy and removal of a second smaller uterine piece may be required.


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: September 26, 2019 01:18 PM