How is a bicornuate uterus diagnosed?

How is a bicornuate uterus diagnosed?

Most people aren’t aware they have a bicornuate uterus until they experience repeated pregnancy loss. Checking the shape of the uterus after repeat miscarriage will reveal the irregularity. In other cases, a heart-shaped uterus is found during a routine ultrasound during pregnancy or because of painful periods.

After an initial pelvic exam, your healthcare provider will use several imaging techniques to confirm a bicornuate uterus. This is done to measure the depth of separation and distinguish a bicornuate uterus from other uterine abnormalities.

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is usually the first diagnostic test used to detect a heart-shaped uterus. After it’s detected, your healthcare provider may use more advanced diagnostics to get a better view of the shape of your uterus. 3D ultrasound can also be very helpful.
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): This produces the most detailed images of the uterus because it can show multiple dimensions and angles.