Vaginal agenesis is a rare malformation at birth affecting one out of 5,000 female newborns. It is characterized by the incomplete development of the vagina — either shorter, nonexistent or simply a remnant of one. Other reproductive or urinary tract abnormalities, such as a small or absent uterus or missing, dislocated or joined kidneys, may also accompany the condition.

Vaginal agenesis — sometimes called vaginal atresia or Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, is not always obvious, as the external sex organs appear normal. When the girl reaches puberty and does not experience menstruation (“amenorrhea”), the condition will become apparent.

Depending on the extent of the malformation, various nonsurgical and surgical options are available. The ability to have children is also dependent on the exact internal effects of the condition.