Besides those malformations of the uterus which we have alluded to as resulting from arrest of development, we have here to mention congenital obliquity of the uterus. Although many doubt its existence, occasional opportunities occur of observing it in a greater or less degree of development. It presents several varieties; the simplest and original form is that in which two lateral halves of the organ are so changed in position that the upper margin does not occupy the horizontal position, and that consequently one horn and its Fallopian tube is placed higher than the other, and the cervix presents a corresponding degree of obliquity. The upper border slants to either side, and its axis forms an angle with the mesial line; a vertical line would divide it in such a manner that the greater part would belong to the elevated side. The inferior half of the uterus is generally bent, or forms an angle at the internal orifice, the higher portion being at the same time much thicker and more massive. The obliquity may confine itself to the body of the uterus, and the latter then forms an angle with the cervix, which either remains perpendicular, or, in rare cases, is even deflected in the opposite direction. A slight degree of this anomaly is presented in a preponderating development of either horn. In many of the last-named cases the uterus assumes the appearance of a retort.

Obliquity is probably of importance in reference to conception, pregnancy, and parturition. It must be distinguished from the mere slanting position of the uterus.

Among the acquired malformations we first notice the oblique position induced by traction exerted upon one side by fibroid tumors, or by an enlarged ovary which has risen into the abdomen. Then those malformations are to be mentioned which the uterus presents in consequence of traction exerted uniformly on both sides, of fibrinous tumors developed within its parietes, and those presented by the vagina in hypertrophy, from cicatrization after rupture or ulcerative loss of tissue; lastly, there are the malformations accompanying dilatation of the uterine cavity, and the development of a uni- or bi-locular capsule. If the cavity of the uterus alone is the seat of an accumulation of mucus, owing to stricture or obstruction of the internal orifice, the former dilates into a globe, which appears seated upon the cervix as upon a stalk; if a similar accumulation takes place in the channel of the cervix from stricture or atresia of the external orifice, the cervix is converted into an ellipsoid capsule, and we then have two cavities, one above the other, separated by an isthmus, and resembling an hourglass. Mayer has termed this malformation of the uterus the uterus bicameratus vetularum.