Understanding MRKH Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
I was moved to research this topic after seeing a discussion about a 17-year-old girl who never had her first period. MRKH syndrome (Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser) is a congenital condition that affects the female reproductive system. It often involves absence or underdevelopment of the uterus and upper two-thirds of the vagina, while the ovaries and external genitalia appear normal. Key facts: • Chromosomes are normal (46,XX). • Ovaries function properly, so hormone levels and secondary features develop normally. • Most girls discover it when their period doesn’t start by age 15 or 16. • Two types exist: isolated MRKH and MRKH with other issues (kidney, spine, heart, hearing). Treatment and hope: • Non-surgical vaginal dilation is the first choice and has a high success rate. Surgery is an option if dilation fails. • For biological children, options include surrogacy or, more recently, uterus transplantation in select countries. • Emotional support, counselling and peer groups are vital for mental health and self-esteem.
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