Uterine or Vaginal Birth Defects

These particular defects are also referred to as Mullerian anomalies. A birth defect of the vagina, cervix or 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 developed an uncommon cancer of the vagina or cervix.

Treatment

Both surgery and assisted reproductive technology are options for these defects. The most common surgery is hysteroscopy to resect a uterine septum. Assisted reproductive technologies may improve your chances for conception depending on your diagnosis and the procedure used.