EFFECT OF VAGINAL AGENESIS ON THE ADOLESCENT - PROGNOSIS FOR NORMAL SEXUAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT

Congenital absence of the vagina represents the most extreme case of vaginal anomaly. It is almost always associated with absence of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Anomalies of the renal and skeletal system are often concurrent with the defect. Diagnosis can occur at any time, however, most cases are diagnosed in the adolescent upon failure of menses to occur in a timely fashion. Creation of a functional vagina is easily accomplished. The consideration of psychological aspects is, however, equally important and far more difficult. This review presents. the psychological aspects of three case studies of vaginal agenesis. These cases highlight the importance of psychological evaluation in achieving an optimal prognosis in the management of this unfortunate disorder.