The development of a bicornuate uterus occurs during fetal growth, when tubes that create the uterus do not fully merge to form a hollow structure. Instead of a normal pear-shaped uterus, a woman with a bircornuate uterus may have a heart-shaped uterus with a deep indentation as though it has two horns, one to the left and one to the right. The shape of a bicornuate uterus can vary from woman to woman, as some uteruses have not merged at all, while others have larger dips.

The problem that arises from a bicornuate uterus is that it provides less room for a baby to grow, which usually results in miscarriage or premature birth. Also, because of the abnormal shape of a bicornuate uterus, the cervix may not be strong enough to keep the baby in, and this is known as a weak or incompetent cervix.

Diagnosis for this condition will start with an initial examination, including an ultrasound, and in some cases it may include a hysterosalpingography (an x-ray that uses dye) or a laparoscopy.

Some abnormalities of a bicornuate uterus can be treated, but treatment may involve risky surgery. If you have any concerns about this condition, you should consult with your doctor.

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