uterine/vaginal birth defects

These particular defects are also referred to as mullerian anomalies. A birth defect of the vagina and uterus can impair a woman’s ability to get pregnant, or to carry a pregnancy to term. Mullerian anomalies can range from a bicornuate uterus to the absence of a uterus and cervix.

symptoms

An evaluation of the reproductive system can help determine if any of the above defects are present. Physicians have several tests they can use to diagnose these conditions, such as a hysterosalpingogram, laparoscopy, and hysteroscopy.

cause

The particular defects described here could be genetic or drug-induced. In the 1950s, diethylstilbestrol (DES) was prescribed to prevent miscarriages. Unfortunately, the daughters of many women who took DES were born with these uterine defects.

treatment

Both surgery and assisted reproductive technologies are options for these defects. The most common surgery is hysteroscopy to resect a uterine septum.