Vaginal septum

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

• Mullerian duct anomalies
• Uterus didelphys
• Hematocolpos

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Vaginal Septum