Vaginal Septum
Contents of Vaginal Septum | Types | Symptoms | Causes | Risk Factors | Complications | Diagnosis | Treatment
A Vaginal Septum is a congenital condition where there’s a partition or wall of tissue within the vagina, often causing it to be divided into two separate cavities. This can lead to various symptoms and complications, affecting menstrual flow, sexual intercourse, and fertility. Treatment options typically involve surgical intervention to remove or correct the septum.
A vaginal septum is a congenital condition when a wall of tissue blocks vagina, dividing it into two parts. Vagina is a muscular canal that leads to the entrance of your uterus (called your cervix). Vaginal canal is where a tampon goes during menstruation and where penetration occurs during sex. A vaginal septum is a vaginal anomaly that happens during fetal development when this canal doesn’t form properly.
It isn’t visible from the outside, so you may not realize you have one until menstruation begins or when you become sexually active. Vaginal septums are rare. They occur in less than .03% of infants.
Types –
Vaginal septums are classified into three types based on shape, thickness, and location.
• Longitudinal vaginal septum. This septum runs vertically along the length of the vagina, dividing the vagina into two separate canals. This can usually happen with a normal uterus, and it often does not prevent normal menstrual cycles. Most women with longitudinal vaginal septum will not have symptoms, so a doctor may notice it during a routine pelvic exam.
• Transverse vaginal septum. This septum runs horizontally across the width of the vagina. It can be complete, which causes full blockage of the upper vagina, or partial, which can partially block the vagina. With a complete blockage of the vagina, those affected may experience swelling of the upper abdomen, missed menstrual cycles, and pain during sexual intercourse.
• Obstructed hemi vagina. A hemi vagina has a septum that blocks and divides half of the vagina. Women usually have a normal menstrual cycle in one half, and blockages on the other. Many also have a didelphic — or double uterus — and extreme menstrual pain.
Symptoms –
Some of the most common symptoms are:
• Amenorrhea (no menstrual period).
• Long menstrual periods (lasting longer than seven days).
• Abdominal and pelvic pain (from blood collecting in their upper vagina or uterus).
• Being unable to use a tampon (blood still comes out despite having one in place).
• Pain when inserting or removing a tampon (their vaginal canal is too small or an odd shape).
• Pain and discomfort during sex.
• Difficulty conceiving.
Causes and Risk Factors –
• Congenital: Vaginal septum occurs during fetal development when the Müllerian ducts, which form the female reproductive system, fail to fuse completely.
• Genetic Factors: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing vaginal septum.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors during pregnancy may increase the risk of developing this condition.
Complications Associated with Vaginal Septum –
• Fertility Issues: Vaginal septum can interfere with fertility by obstructing the passage of sperm into the uterus.
• Recurrent Infections: The presence of the septum can increase the risk of infections due to difficulty in maintaining proper hygiene.
• Obstructed Labor: In severe cases, vaginal septum can obstruct labor, leading to complications during childbirth.
Diagnosis –
• Physical Examination: A gynecologist may perform a pelvic examination to assess the anatomy of the vaginal canal.
• Imaging Studies: Imaging techniques such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide detailed images of the reproductive organs to confirm the presence of a vaginal septum.
• Hysteroscopy: A hysteroscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, may be inserted into the vagina to visualize the internal structures of the reproductive system.
Treatment Options –
• Surgical Correction: The most common treatment for vaginal septum is surgical removal of the dividing tissue to create a single, functional vaginal canal.
• Laser Surgery: In some cases, laser surgery may be used to remove the septum with minimal scarring and faster recovery.
• Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients may require pain management and antibiotics to prevent infection. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and address any complications.
Prognosis and Outlook –
• Fertility: With appropriate treatment, many women with vaginal septum can achieve pregnancy and have successful childbirth.
• Sexual Function: Surgical correction of vaginal septum often improves sexual function and reduces discomfort during intercourse.
• Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular gynecological check-ups are essential to monitor for any recurrence of the septum or other complications.
Conclusion
Vaginal septum is a congenital condition characterized by the presence of a dividing wall within the vaginal canal. It can cause various symptoms such as menstrual irregularities and painful intercourse. The condition is typically diagnosed through physical examination and imaging studies, and treatment often involves surgical correction to create a single, functional vaginal passage. With appropriate management, most women with vaginal septum can lead healthy, fulfilling lives and achieve successful pregnancies. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is crucial to monitor for any potential complications and ensure optimal long-term outcomes.
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