International Journal of Biomedical Science and Research
Conception Following Successful Repair of Acquired Gynatresia from Female Genital Cutting After Three Failed Attempts
Abstract
George Uchenna Eleje, Obinna Kenneth Nnabuchi, Gerald Okanandu Udigwe, Tobechi Kingsley Njoku, Chukwuemeka Chukwubuikem Okoro, Chukwudubem Chinagorom Onyejiaka, Emmanuel Chukwubuikem Egwuatu, Adanna Vivian Egwim, Ekeuda Uchenna Nwankwo, Chukwunonso Isaiah Enechukwu, Blessing Ifunanya Enyi, Uchenna Clara Chijioke-Ofoma, Chidinma Theresa Ezidiegwu, Chekwube Martin Obianyo, Gerald Tochukwu Igwemadu, William Amebeobari Mube, Stanley Chigaemezu Egbogu, Onyecherelam Monday Ogelle, Nnaedozie Paul Obiegbu, Nnaemeka Izuchukwu Ulasi, Martin Chinedu Andeh, Casmir Chukwudi Madubuko, Nkejesus Chidube Obi, Ebube BelieveGod Akosa, Alexander Arinze Mathias, Theophilus Osaje Okonoboh, Ifunanya Anita Ezeamama, Onyeka Chukwudalu Ekwebene, Ben Afam Obidike, Chukwudi Anthony Ogabido, Johnbosco Emmanuel Mamah, Chukwunwendu Aloysius Okeke and Ahizechukwu Chigoziem Eke
Gynatresia, characterised by partial or complete obliteration of the vaginal canal, may be congenital or acquired. The acquired form remains more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, often following obstetric trauma, infection, or harmful traditional practices. We report the case of a nulliparous Nigerian woman in her early thirties who presented with a seven-year history of dyspareunia and infertility following female genital cutting in childhood. She had previously undergone three unsuccessful attempts at vaginal repair. Clinical evaluation confirmed acquired gynatresia, and she subsequently underwent successful vaginoplasty. Postoperatively, she experienced significant improvement in sexual function and overall quality of life. Eighteen months after surgery, she conceived spontaneously and was delivered of a healthy male infant at term via caesarean section. This case demonstrates that successful surgical correction of acquired gynatresia, even after multiple failed repairs, can restore vaginal patency and reproductive potential. It highlights the importance of specialised surgical care and long-term follow-up in affected women, particularly in resource-limited settings. There is need for longitudinal studies to better define fertility and obstetric outcomes following repair.