Definition of Developmental disorders of the female reproductive tract
Developmental disorders of the female reproductive tract are problems in a baby girl’s reproductive organs that occur while she is growing in her mother’s body.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
A baby starts to develop its reproductive organs between weeks 4 and 5 of pregnancy. This development continues until the 20th week of pregnancy.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary according to the specific problem. They may include:
Signs and tests
The doctor may notice signs of a developmental disorder right away. Such signs may include:
Treatment
Doctors often recommend surgery for girls with developmental problems of the internal reproductive organs. For example, a blocked vagina can usually be corrected with surgery.
Expectations (prognosis)
With expert advice, early treatment, and counseling, the outcome is usually excellent.
Review
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 11/1/2009
