A Review of Lesions of the Posterior Fourchette, Posterior Vestibule (Fossa Navicularis), and Hymen

Abstract

Lesions specific to the posterior fourchette, posterior vestibule (fossa navicularis), and hymen are reviewed. Knowledge of these regional lesions will be helpful if such a patient is encountered.

Hymen and virginity: What every paediatrician should know

“…The complete absence of the hymen is extremely rare and has been reported in cases of vaginal agenesis. 6 Hymenal anatomy has a wide range of shapes and appearances, such as annular (circumferential), crescentic (posterior rim), fimbriated, redundant (sleeve-like), septate or cribriform (Fig. 2).…”

“…The hymen is a membranous tissue surrounding the vaginal introitus. Embryologically, the hymen is thought to derive from an invagination of the urogenital sinus 6,7 . The pelvic part of the urogenital sinus gives rise to the distal third of the vagina, which will join the utero‐vaginal canal arising from the fusion of the lower portion of the paramesonephric ducts around 12 weeks of gestation (Fig.…”

“…However, it often remains undiagnosed until adolescence and presents with primary amenorrhea and hematocolpos. The complete absence of the hymen is extremely rare and has been reported in cases of vaginal agenesis 6 …”

“… 5 If opening fails, a condition known as an imperforate hymen will ensue, which is the most common obstructive anomaly of the female reproductive tract, occurring in 1 of 1000 newborn girls. 6 Imperforate hymen may manifest at birth by a hydrocolpos. However, it often remains undiagnosed until adolescence and presents with primary amenorrhea and hematocolpos.…”

“…The complete absence of the hymen is extremely rare and has been reported in cases of vaginal agenesis. 6 …”