Normal delivery with a bicornuate uterus

In a bicornuate uterus, a deep indentation separates the upper uterus into two cavities. This shape may affect the space available for the baby to settle head-down. If the baby remains breech or lies across the uterus, the obstetric team may recommend caesarean delivery.

A vaginal birth decision also takes account of growth, placental position, the cervix, labour onset, previous births and any uterine surgery. Pelvic MRI can define the uterine shape outside an urgent labour assessment, while ultrasound is generally used to check the pregnancy and fetal position. The phrase normal delivery usually refers to vaginal birth, but it does not imply that caesarean birth is abnormal or a failure.

Keep all antenatal appointments and make sure the team has the report that confirmed the bicornuate uterus. Ask when fetal position will be reassessed and whether your planned birth setting can provide continuous monitoring, urgent caesarean delivery and newborn care if these become necessary.

Discuss what would happen if labour begins early, the waters break before contractions, or an examination shows that the baby is not head-down. A written preference for vaginal birth can remain part of your plan while allowing changes in response to current findings.

Call your maternity unit urgently for vaginal bleeding, a gush or persistent trickle of fluid, painful regular tightening before term, severe abdominal pain, fever, faintness, or a noticeable reduction in your baby's movements. If labour may have started, tell the team that you have a bicornuate uterus and share the baby's latest known position.

Ask whether anything on your latest scan argues against vaginal delivery, how fetal wellbeing would be monitored during labour, and what threshold the team uses to recommend a caesarean. You can also ask whether induction is suitable in your circumstances and which anaesthetic options are available if the plan changes.