Vaginal Agenesis

Vaginal agenesis is a congenital anomaly (birth defect). It happens when the vagina of a fetus doesn’t develop properly in your uterus. They may be missing all or part of their vagina. Although the condition is present at birth, it might go undiagnosed until later in life. The outer sex organs often appear normal, so women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) don’t learn that they have the condition until their teenage years. It becomes apparent when they don’t start their monthly period (menstruation).

Vaginal agenesis can occur along with other abnormalities of the reproductive system. Some people may not have a fully developed uterus (the organ in which a fetus grows) or fallopian tubes (which carry eggs to the uterus). Problems with the kidneys or the spine can also occur.

Healthcare providers treat vaginal agenesis with medical devices that gradually dilate the vaginal canal. Sometimes, you need surgery to create a vaginal opening. Depending on which reproductive organs the condition affects, it may not be possible to carry a child. But, with treatment, many people with this condition lead healthy lives and enjoy a normal sex life.

How common is vaginal agenesis?

This condition affects about 1 of every 5,000 people assigned female at birth. About a third of people with vaginal agenesis also have problems with their kidneys. Around 12% of the time, people with this condition also have problems affecting their spine, ribs or bones in the arms and legs.