Vaginal anomalies

Vaginal anomalies are a group of disorders that involve the structure and development of the vagina. These anomalies can occur during the fetal development and may cause complications such as infertility, sexual dysfunction, and psychosocial distress.

Types of Vaginal Anomalies

There are several types of vaginal anomalies, including:

• Müllerian Agenesis: Also known as Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, this condition is characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the vagina and uterus.

• Vaginal Atresia: This is a condition where the vagina is abnormally closed or absent.

• Transverse Vaginal Septum: This condition involves a wall of tissue that divides the vagina into two sections.

• Longitudinal Vaginal Septum: This condition involves a wall of tissue that divides the vagina lengthwise.

Causes

The exact cause of vaginal anomalies is unknown, but they are thought to occur due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Some conditions, such as Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome and Turner Syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of vaginal anomalies.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of vaginal anomalies typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes surgical exploration.

Treatment

Treatment for vaginal anomalies depends on the type and severity of the anomaly, and may include surgical correction, dilation therapy, or the use of a vaginal prosthesis. Psychological support is also an important aspect of treatment, as these conditions can have a significant impact on a woman's self-esteem and sexual health.

See Also

• Müllerian duct
• Vaginal septum
• Congenital anomalies of female genital organs

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