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Developmental disorders of the vagina and vulva

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

Early recognition of developmental disorders is important, particularly for those that involve sexual ambiguity.

• Surgical treatment, indicated in some cases depending upon the abnormality, is usually recommended during the neonatal/infant period. In some instances, reconstruction may be deferred until after puberty. Surgical reconstruction is done to most closely associate physical characteristics with the gender role assigned to the individual child. This is best done with the expert advice of a geneticist or other specialist after chromosomal studies are completed.
• Hormonal supplementation may also be necessary depending on the condition present.

Psychosocial support/counseling is required for the parents (and child when applicable) to address concerns and provide anticipatory guidance specific to the child's development.

Expectations (prognosis):

Optimal outcome is based upon early identification of the abnormalities (during the neonatal period), early chromosomal studies, expert advice, and early intervention with treatment aimed at addressing physical, emotional, and social issues.

Complications:

Potential complications arise if a diagnosis is made late or in error. Children with apparent gender-specific external characteristics may be found, at puberty, to have internal sexual organ functions specific to the sex opposite from which they were raised. Occasionally, these internal sexual organs are at risk for cancer and must be surgically removed around the time of puberty.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:

• You notice abnormal gynecological structures
• Breasts or pubic hair do not develop at puberty
• The menstrual cycle does not begin at puberty
• Unexpected male characteristics develop

• Review Date: 5/6/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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