Vaginal septum: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|A congenital disorder of the female reproductive system}}
{{Short description|A congenital disorder of the female reproductive system}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
[[File:Double_vagina_Vagina_duplex_from_Golay_1875.png|thumb|Illustration of a double vagina from Golay, 1875]]
 
[[File:Double_vagina_Vagina_duplex_from_Golay_1875.png|thumb]]
A '''vaginal septum''' is a congenital disorder where a partition of tissue divides the vagina either longitudinally or transversely. This condition can lead to complications in menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.
A '''vaginal septum''' is a congenital disorder where a partition of tissue divides the vagina either longitudinally or transversely. This condition can lead to complications in menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.


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===Longitudinal vaginal septum===
===Longitudinal vaginal septum===
A '''longitudinal vaginal septum''' is a vertical partition that divides the vagina into two separate channels. This condition is often associated with a [[double uterus]] (uterus didelphys) or other [[duct anomalies]]. Women with this condition may have two separate cervices and, in some cases, two separate uterine cavities.
A '''longitudinal vaginal septum''' is a vertical partition that divides the vagina into two separate channels. This condition is often associated with a [[double uterus]] (uterus didelphys) or other [[Mullerian duct anomalies]]. Women with this condition may have two separate cervices and, in some cases, two separate uterine cavities.


===Transverse vaginal septum===
===Transverse vaginal septum===
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==Related pages==
==Related pages==
* [[duct anomalies]]
* [[Mullerian duct anomalies]]
* [[Uterus didelphys]]
* [[Uterus didelphys]]
* [[Hematocolpos]]
* [[Hematocolpos]]
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[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Gynaecology]]
[[Category:Gynaecology]]
[[File:Double_vagina_Vagina_duplex_from_Golay_1875.png|thumb|Illustration of a double vagina from Golay, 1875]]
<gallery>
File:Double_vagina_Vagina_duplex_from_Golay_1875.png
</gallery>
== Vaginal Septum ==
A '''vaginal septum''' is a congenital anomaly of the female [[reproductive system]] where a partition or "septum" is present within the [[vagina]]. This condition can be classified into two main types: the [[transverse vaginal septum]] and the [[longitudinal vaginal septum]].
=== Types ===
==== Transverse Vaginal Septum ====
A [[transverse vaginal septum]] is a horizontal partition that can occur at any level of the vagina, from the hymen to the cervix. It results from incomplete fusion of the [[Müllerian ducts]] and the [[urogenital sinus]] during embryonic development. This type of septum can lead to [[obstructive symptoms]] such as [[primary amenorrhea]], [[dysmenorrhea]], and [[hematocolpos]].
==== Longitudinal Vaginal Septum ====
A [[longitudinal vaginal septum]] is a vertical partition that divides the vagina into two separate channels. It is often associated with other [[Müllerian duct anomalies]], such as a [[uterus didelphys]] or a [[bicornuate uterus]]. This condition may be asymptomatic or cause [[dyspareunia]] and [[obstructed labor]].
=== Diagnosis ===
Diagnosis of a vaginal septum typically involves a combination of [[clinical examination]], [[imaging studies]], and sometimes [[endoscopic evaluation]].
* '''Clinical Examination''': A thorough [[pelvic examination]] can reveal the presence of a septum. In cases of a transverse septum, there may be a bulging membrane or mass in the vagina.
* '''Imaging Studies''': [[Ultrasound]] and [[MRI]] are useful in assessing the extent and location of the septum and any associated anomalies.
* '''Endoscopic Evaluation''': [[Hysteroscopy]] and [[vaginoscopy]] can provide direct visualization of the septum and aid in planning surgical intervention.
=== Treatment ===
The treatment of a vaginal septum depends on the type and severity of the condition.
* '''Surgical Resection''': Surgical removal of the septum is the primary treatment. For a transverse septum, a [[septoplasty]] is performed to create a patent vaginal canal. For a longitudinal septum, the septum is excised to unify the vaginal cavity.
* '''Postoperative Care''': Post-surgical care may include [[vaginal dilation]] to prevent scarring and stenosis.
=== Prognosis ===
With appropriate surgical intervention, the prognosis for individuals with a vaginal septum is generally good. Most patients can expect normal [[menstrual function]] and [[fertility]] post-treatment.
=== Complications ===
Potential complications include [[infection]], [[scarring]], and [[recurrence]] of the septum. In cases of associated [[Müllerian anomalies]], there may be additional reproductive challenges.
== See Also ==
* [[Müllerian duct anomalies]]
* [[Congenital anomalies of the female reproductive system]]
* [[Hematocolpos]]
== References ==
<references/>
[[Category:Congenital disorders of female genital organs]]
[[Category:Gynecology]]
{{Reproductive system diseases}}
{{Congenital malformations and deformations}}

Revision as of 04:34, 29 March 2025

A congenital disorder of the female reproductive system


Illustration of a double vagina from Golay, 1875

A vaginal septum is a congenital disorder where a partition of tissue divides the vagina either longitudinally or transversely. This condition can lead to complications in menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.

Types

There are two main types of vaginal septum:

Longitudinal vaginal septum

A longitudinal vaginal septum is a vertical partition that divides the vagina into two separate channels. This condition is often associated with a double uterus (uterus didelphys) or other Mullerian duct anomalies. Women with this condition may have two separate cervices and, in some cases, two separate uterine cavities.

Transverse vaginal septum

A transverse vaginal septum is a horizontal partition that can occur at any level of the vagina. It can be complete or partial, leading to obstruction of menstrual flow and potential complications during sexual intercourse and childbirth. This condition is often diagnosed during adolescence when menstrual flow is obstructed, leading to hematocolpos or hematometra.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a vaginal septum can vary depending on the type and severity of the septum. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty with tampon insertion
  • Painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
  • Difficulty with sexual intercourse
  • Obstructed menstrual flow

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a vaginal septum is typically made through a combination of physical examination and imaging studies. Ultrasound and MRI are commonly used to assess the anatomy of the reproductive tract and identify the presence and type of septum.

Treatment

Treatment for a vaginal septum often involves surgical intervention to remove the septum and restore normal vaginal anatomy. The specific surgical approach depends on the type and location of the septum. In cases of a longitudinal septum, the septum is typically excised to create a single vaginal canal. For a transverse septum, surgery may involve creating an opening in the septum to allow for normal menstrual flow and sexual function.

Prognosis

With appropriate surgical treatment, the prognosis for individuals with a vaginal septum is generally good. Most women can expect normal sexual function and the ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term.

Related pages

References

<references group="" responsive="1"></references>


External links

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