Vaginal Septum

A vaginal septum is a congenital condition where a band of tissue divides the vagina into two separate canals. This anomaly occurs during fetal development when the Müllerian ducts do not fully fuse or the midline tissue fails to reabsorb. Vaginal septa can be longitudinal (vertical), dividing the vagina lengthwise, or transverse (horizontal), splitting it into upper and lower sections. Most women with a longitudinal septum remain asymptomatic, but some may experience pain during intercourse, difficulty inserting tampons, or irregular menstrual flow.

Transverse septa can sometimes block menstrual blood, causing pelvic pain or amenorrhea. Diagnosis is usually made during a pelvic exam or imaging, and treatment may involve surgical removal if symptoms are present or fertility is affected. Vaginal septa are often associated with other Müllerian duct anomalies, such as uterine malformations or renal abnormalities. Early detection and management help prevent complications related to menstruation, sexual health, and childbirth.?