Final answer:
A bicornuate uterus increases the risk for pregnancy-related issues such as miscarriage and preterm labor. This congenital anomaly can also exacerbate the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, which, if left untreated, can result in significant fertility issues due to scar tissue formation within the reproductive tract.
Step-by-step explanation:
The risks associated with a bicornuate uterus stem from its shape and the effects that can have on reproductive health. A bicornuate uterus is a congenital uterine anomaly where the uterus is heart-shaped rather than pear-shaped. This abnormality can have several implications for pregnancy and fertility. Women with a bicornuate uterus are at a higher risk for preterm labor and miscarriage. There are also associations with malpresentation of the fetus, where the baby doesn’t lie head down, leading to complications during delivery. Moreover, a bicornuate uterus may contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) when an infection ascends through the reproductive tract, potentially resulting in scar tissue formation and subsequent infertility.
The open-ended structure of the uterine tubes is particularly vulnerable to the spread of bacteria and other contagions, which can lead to severe infections like sepsis. This is especially concerning in cases of non-sterile procedures, including those performed by unskilled practitioners. Infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia are sexually transmitted and can increase the risk of developing PID. The subsequent scarring from PID has a notable impact on fertility and can substantially impair a woman’s ability to conceive.