Double uterus, sometimes called uterine duplication or uterus didelphys, is a rare congenital condition in which a girl is born with a second womb, or uterus. This can happen when the reproductive tract is forming in the fetus. Occasionally, two tubes that normally meet in the middle and fuse together to form the uterus fail to do so, and instead, two uterine cavities form. Having two uteri may seem strange, but it generally doesn't require treatment. Gynecologists and obstetricians should be aware of it, however, when you (or your daughter, if you are reading this as a parent) reach childbearing age.

• A woman with two uteri can have children, although each uterus is smaller than a normal single uterus.
• She is more at risk for miscarriage, premature labor and breech presentation (a baby's feet come out first), which would most likely require a cesarean delivery.
• Sometimes women with this condition also have more than one cervix. Pap smears must be performed from each cervix, one marked right and one marked left.

What the diagnosis means

Double uterus can be a surprising diagnosis, but it shouldn't cause you too much alarm. Our physicians and staff will walk you or your child through what this diagnosis means and what measures you can take to ensure a healthy reproductive system.