Reproductive Tract Disorders

 

Congenital defects can lead to abnormalities of the reproductive tract in infant and adolescent girls. At Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology, board-certified and fellowship-trained OB/GYN Oluyemisi Adeyemi-Fowode, MD, and the team can diagnose and treat a wide range of reproductive tract abnormalities including abnormalities of the hymen, vagina, or uterus that can interfere with a girl’s menstrual cycle and reproductive health. Call Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology in Sugar Land, Texas, to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for abnormalities of the reproductive tract in your child today or book an appointment online.

 

Reproductive Tract Disorders Q & A

 

What are abnormalities of the reproductive tract?

 

Abnormalities of the reproductive tract in adolescent girls can affect any of the female reproductive organs, including the hymen, vagina, cervix, and uterus.

 

These issues can develop while the baby is still in the womb due to abnormal or missing genes or for no identifiable reason. The use of certain medications during pregnancy can also increase risk factors for structural abnormalities in a girl’s reproductive system.

 

Examples of abnormalities in the reproductive tract of infants and young girls can include:

 

• Lower vaginal atresia
• Obstructed hemivagina with ipsilateral renal agenesis (OHVIRA)
• Uterine duplication
• Hymen abnormalities such as imperforate hymen
• Unicornuate uterus
• Uterine or vaginal blockages

 

 

When should I seek treatment for abnormalities of the reproductive tract for my child?

 

There are a variety of structural abnormalities that can affect the health and function of the female reproductive tract. Some conditions are visible at birth, while others may not be noticeable until a girl is older.

 

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology for your child if they have abnormalities that affect their physical health, such as uterine or vaginal blockages.

 

As girls get older, signs of reproductive abnormalities can include no menstruation, monthly cramping without bleeding, painful menstruation, and heavy menstrual bleeding.

 

Other signs of reproductive abnormalities that affect older girls include painful sex and repeated miscarriages or premature births.

 

 

 

How are abnormalities of the reproductive tract treated?

 

Before they create a treatment plan to address abnormalities of the reproductive tract, the team at Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology may request genetic testing, hormone testing, or an ultrasound of the pelvic area.

 

Based on the testing results, the team may recommend surgery to correct structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs. They can also use minimally invasive surgical techniques to remove blockages of the vagina or uterus.

 

Depending on the condition, the medical team may delay surgery in infants and young children until girls start menstruation.

 

The team also provides resources that support girls and their parents as they cope with the emotional toll abnormalities of the reproductive tract can cause. As girls get older, they may need to continue counseling or participate in support groups.

 

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for abnormalities of the reproductive tract in your child, call Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology today or book an appointment online.