Incidence of Incidental Finding of Mullerian Anomalies at Successful Term Pregnancies: A Three-Year Study in India

Abstract

Introduction: Mullerian Anomalies are known to disturb the reproductive life of women immensely and adversely affect their obstetric outcomes too. Therefore, they get identified either during pubertal, early reproductive or antenatal period. Ultrasound diagnosis in pregnancy after first trimester is also very difficult Very few anomalies get diagnosed after a successful term pregnancy incidentally during delivery. Their actual incidence varies from 1-10% but little is known about incidence of unidentified cases in successful term pregnancies Aim: To determine the incidence of incidental finding of Mullerian Anomalies in successful term pregnancies Methods: Over 3 year study period at a tertiary care centre we observed all women who delivered both by vaginal route and cesarean section for any Mullerian Anomaly. Results: Of the total 5124 women who delivered at our institute at term gestation, 3 women were excluded, as they were known cases of Mullerian anomalies on regular follow up at our institute. 11 women were identified with Mullerian Anomalies incidentally during delivery at term.9 of them were referral cases. 5 cases of Arcuate Uterus, 2 cases of septate uterus, 2 cases of Unicornuate uterus, 1 case of bicornuate uterus and 1case of agenesis of fallopian tube were found. Conclusion: Mullerian Anomalies are seen occasionally incidentally in successful term pregnancies during delivery. They can be asymptomatic, silent and can have positive pregnancy outcomes. These incidences are crucial for counseling of patients and their families. Also, we must be on a look out for these diagnoses not only to identify co existing urological disturbances but also to help us improve their subsequent obstetric performances.