symptoms

Depending on its severity, a birth defect may only become apparent as a result of a routine gynaecological examination. It is possible that abnormalities can cause amenorrhea or pain, for example if the menstrual blood cannot escape as a result of abnormalities in the neck of the uterus leading to a build up of pressure in the long term. However such smptoms are not specific to this condition.

Examination
A gynaecological examination of the female genitalia can help to determine whether a uterine or vaginal birth defect is present. There are different methods of identifying defects, such as a transvaginal ultrasound examination, hysterosalpingography, laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.

Back to top

cause

These sorts of abnormalities can be inherited (genetic in nature) or caused by exposure to drugs. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) was prescribed in the fifties to prevent miscarriages. Unfortunately, the daughters of women who took this drug can show uterine, cervical or vaginal defects. These “DES-daughters”, as they are called, often have regular checkups from a gynaecologist.

Back to top

treatment

Sometimes surgery can be used to correct the anatomical defect to some extent. One example is hysteroscopy to remove a uterine septum. Vaginal septa (tissues that divide) can also be corrected by outpatient surgery.

Depending on the outcome of surgery or whether it is possible, assisted reproductive techniques are treatment options for the possible infertility problems caused by these defects.

Back to top