A Text-book of Diseases of Women

by Charles B. Penrose

Fig. 176.—Uterus didelphys and double vagina.

Uterus Bicornis Duplex.—In this variety of malformation development has proceeded a step farther than in the preceding variety. The uterine bodies have become externally united. There is, however, no fusion of the cavities. Two cavities are present, opening into a double vagina.

Uterus Bicornis Unicollis.—Here the development of the cervix and the lower part of the uterus is normal. The upper parts of the body of the uterus have not become fused, and diverge sharply from each other. The organ is two-horned ([Fig. 177]).

Fig. 177.—Uterus bicornis unicollis (Winckel).

Uterus Cordiformis.—In this variety the two halves of the uterus are united throughout. Externally on the fundus there appears a slight depression, which, with the broad body of the uterus, demonstrates the imperfection of development. The name is derived from the resemblance to the conventional heart-shape.

Uterus Septus.—In this variety development has progressed so far that externally the uterus presents the normal appearance. The septum that divides the two ducts has, however, failed to disappear, and a divided uterus results. The septum may extend throughout the body of the uterus, or it may be less perfectly formed. Often one side of the uterus is better developed than the other ([Fig. 178]).

Malformation of the Vagina.—Malformation of the vagina is frequently present with malformation of the uterus. The septum that divides Müller’s ducts may persist throughout the whole length of the vagina, forming a double vagina; or the septum may have partly disappeared, being present in various stages of perfection. In double vagina each orifice may be guarded by a distinct hymen.

Sometimes one of the canals of a double vagina is much better developed than the other. The orifice of the poorly developed canal may be closed at its lower extremity, so that the malformation is never recognized by the woman or physician unless the closed canal becomes distended with blood or other secretion. A variety of vaginal cyst may be formed in this way.