Successful bicornuate uterus pregnancy: what to know

A bicornuate, or heart-shaped, uterus forms when the upper part is divided into two sides. Some people have no symptoms and discover the shape during an ultrasound or another scan. During pregnancy, the baby may have less room to turn or may settle in a position that affects birth planning. The shape can also be associated with early contractions, bleeding or changes in cervical length, so your maternity team may offer extra scans and appointments. These possibilities do not determine how your pregnancy will end.

Tell the obstetric team about any previous pregnancy losses, preterm births, uterine procedures or scan findings. Keep scheduled antenatal visits, and ask which scan will check growth, position and the cervix. A scan may also clarify whether the uterus is truly bicornuate or has another shape; a pelvic MRI can sometimes provide additional anatomical detail. Discuss where you should give birth, what positions the baby might take, and which signs should prompt a call.

Seek urgent maternity advice for heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or one-sided abdominal pain, a gush or ongoing trickle of fluid, regular painful contractions before your advised time, fever, fainting, or noticeably reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy. Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are sudden or intense. Your team can assess you with an examination, fetal monitoring and imaging when needed.

Ask: Which type of bicornuate uterus do I have? How often will growth and cervical length be checked? Is the baby’s position likely to affect delivery? What symptoms should make me call the hospital? Would I need a planned caesarean birth, or can labour be considered if conditions remain suitable?