Ep 3: How Premature Birth Caused A Malformed Uterus

In this episode, Emily discusses the effects of premature birth — breaking down how being born 3 weeks early, a mere 3 pounds led to underdevelopment, multiple surgeries and reproductive issues, while later discovering a uterine malformation.

Terms used:
Premature baby/birth: A premature birth is a birth that takes place more than three weeks before the baby's estimated due date. Premature babies, especially those born very early, often have complicated medical problems.

Esophagus surgery (or open esophagectomy): A surgery to remove part or all of the esophagus. This is the tube that moves food from your throat to your stomach. After it is removed, the esophagus is rebuilt from part of your stomach or part of your large intestine.

Compressed lung: The most common cause of pneumothorax is respiratory distress syndrome. This is a condition that occurs in babies who are born too early (premature). The baby's lungs lack the slippery substance (surfactant) that helps them stay open (inflated). Therefore, the tiny air sacs are not able to expand as easily.

Born with one kidney: When one müllerian duct is underdeveloped or fails to develop, a banana-shaped half-uterus is formed. A missing kidney or other kidney problems typically accompany this asymmetric anomaly.

Fallopian tubes: One of two long, slender tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs pass from the ovaries, through the fallopian tubes, to the uterus. In the female reproductive tract, there is one ovary and one fallopian tube on each side of the uterus.

Reproductive surgery for uterine fibroid removal (Myomectomy): A surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids — also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-O-muhs). These common noncancerous growths appear in the uterus. Uterine fibroids usually develop during childbearing years, but they can occur at any age.

Unicornuate uterus: A uterine condition that causes only half of your uterus to form. As a result, a female has a single fallopian tube instead of two and a uterus that’s usually smaller in size. A unicornuate uterus also has a single cervix and vagina. The unicornuate uterus appears to be even more infrequent with an estimated occurrence of about 1 in 4,000. A pelvic examination will typically reveal a single vagina and a single cervix. Investigations are usually prompted on the basis of reproductive problems.

Watch this interview on YouTube.com/ChildlessWomen

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