Gnaecology and Reproductive health

Structural Abnormalities of the Female Genital Tract

Table of Contents

Definition

Structural abnormalities of the female genital tract refer to congenital or acquired deviations from the normal anatomy of the reproductive organs. These abnormalities may affect the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, and can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, pain, or obstetric complications.

 I. Congenital Abnormalities

These arise due to improper development, fusion, or resorption of the Müllerian ducts during embryogenesis.

A. Vaginal Abnormalities
  • Imperforate Hymen: Failure of hymen perforation; leads to hematocolpos.

  • Transverse Vaginal Septum: Horizontal tissue obstructs vaginal canal.

  • Vaginal Agenesis: Absence of vaginal canal, often associated with uterine agenesis.

B. Uterine Abnormalities
  • Uterine Agenesis/Hypoplasia: Complete or partial absence of uterus.

  • Unicornuate Uterus: One-sided development due to incomplete duct formation.

  • Bicornuate Uterus: Two horns due to partial fusion failure.

  • Septate Uterus: Fibrous or muscular septum divides uterine cavity.

  • Didelphys Uterus: Complete failure of fusion; two uteri and cervices.

C. Cervical and Tubal Abnormalities
  • Cervical Atresia: Absence or blockage of cervical canal.

  • Tubal Agenesis or Duplication: Absence or duplication of fallopian tubes.

Diagram of Müllerian anomalies here

II. Acquired Structural Abnormalities

These develop due to trauma, infection, surgery, or disease.

A. Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)
  • Benign tumors of uterine muscle.

  • Can distort uterine shape and impair fertility.

B. Endometriosis
  • Ectopic endometrial tissue growth.

  • Causes adhesions and anatomical distortion.

C. Pelvic Organ Prolapse
  • Descent of uterus, bladder, or rectum due to weakened pelvic floor.

D. Fistulas
  • Abnormal connections between genital tract and adjacent organs.

    • Vesico-vaginal fistula: Between bladder and vagina.

    • Recto-vaginal fistula: Between rectum and vagina.

E. Post-Surgical or Traumatic Scarring
  • From procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C), cesarean section, or perineal tears.

 

 III. Clinical Features

  • Primary amenorrhea (in congenital absence or obstruction).

  • Dysmenorrhea or cyclical abdominal pain.

  • Infertility or recurrent miscarriage.

  • Dyspareunia (painful intercourse).

  • Urinary or fecal incontinence (in fistulas).

  • Pelvic pain or pressure (in fibroids or endometriosis).

 

IV. Diagnosis

  • History and physical examination.

  • Pelvic ultrasound: First-line imaging.

  • MRI: Detailed soft tissue evaluation.

  • Hysterosalpingography (HSG): Uterine and tubal assessment.

  • Laparoscopy/Hysteroscopy: Direct visualization and treatment.

 

V. Management

  • Surgical correction:

    • Septum resection

    • Metroplasty

    • Fistula repair

  • Hormonal therapy:

    • For endometriosis or menstrual regulation

  • Assisted reproductive techniques:

    • IVF for severe anomalies

  • Supportive care:

    • Counseling

    • Pelvic floor therapy

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