Patient with Uterus Didelphys Treated with Acupuncture and Moxibustion: A Case Study

Uterus didelphys is a gynaecological condition in which duplication of the uterus and cervix occurs from non-fusion of the Müllerian ducts during embryonic development. This structural abnormality is associated with an increased rate of miscarriage and labour and delivery complications. This case study provides an example of the pre- and perinatal treatment of a patient diagnosed with uterine didelphys with acupuncture and moxibustion. This patient learned that she had a uterine anomaly prior to conception but had been misdiagnosed with a septate uterus, and only received an accurate diagnosis of uterine didelphys in her first trimester. She was initially treated for fertility concerns and once pregnant, the treatment focus shifted to helping her stay pregnant and prevent miscarriage and preterm labour. Twenty-four treatments were given over 11 months starting six weeks pre-conception using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) interventions including acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, cupping and supportive fertility care. Treatment resolved malpresentation of the foetus; miscarriage and preterm delivery were avoided. The foetus was delivered vaginally at full-term without major complications. Patients with uterine didelphys are at risk of poor reproductive outcomes; acupuncture, with a high margin of safety, may be a helpful modality for improving these outcomes.