The uterus and fertility.
OBJECTIVE
To review the current understanding of the role the uterus plays in embryo implantation and to outline congenital anomalies and acquired diseases that impact normal uterine function.


METHODS
The publications related to the embryo implantation, Mullerian anomalies, uterine polyps, uterine synechiae, and myomas were identified through Medline and reviewed.


CONCLUSIONS
Congenital anomalies and acquired diseases of the uterus may negatively impact on the complex processes of embryo implantation. Hysteroscopic surgery to correct uterine septa, intrauterine synechiae, and myomas that distort the uterine cavity may benefit women with infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. The effect of endometrial polyps on fertility is uncertain, but their removal, once identified, is justifiable. Complex congenital anomalies such as unicornuate uterus and uterus didelphys may negatively affect fertility and pregnancy outcome, and surgical treatment may benefit select patients.
D010064:Embryo Implantation; D016889:Endometrial Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005298:Fertility; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D009095:Mullerian Ducts / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000503:physiopathology; D011127:Polyps / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D000267:Tissue Adhesions / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014591:Uterine Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D014599:Uterus / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery