Uterine septum: a guideline

Fertil Steril. 2016 Sep 1;106(3):530-40. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.05.014. Epub 2016 May 25.

Abstract

The purpose of this guideline is to review the literature regarding septate uterus and determine optimal indications and methods of treatment for it. Septate uterus has been associated with an increase in the risk of miscarriage, premature delivery, and malpresentation; however, there is insufficient evidence that a uterine septum is associated with infertility. Several studies indicate that treating a uterine septum is associated with an improvement in live-birth rates in women with a history of prior pregnancy loss, recurrent pregnancy loss, or infertility. In a patient without infertility or prior pregnancy loss, it may be reasonable to consider septum incision following counseling regarding potential risks and benefits of the procedure. Many techniques are available to surgically treat a uterine septum, but there is insufficient evidence to recommend one specific method over another.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Habitual / etiology
  • Abortion, Habitual / physiopathology
  • Abortion, Habitual / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Humans
  • Hysteroscopy*
  • Infertility, Female / etiology
  • Infertility, Female / physiopathology
  • Infertility, Female / prevention & control
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Urogenital Abnormalities / complications
  • Urogenital Abnormalities / diagnosis
  • Urogenital Abnormalities / physiopathology
  • Urogenital Abnormalities / surgery*
  • Uterus / abnormalities
  • Uterus / physiopathology
  • Uterus / surgery*