EXPLORING SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACTS OF MÜLLERIAN AGENESIS: A STUDY OF PATIENTS BEFORE AND AFTER RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Abstract

Müllerian agenesis, also known as Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome, is a rare congenital condition that affects females with a normal genotype (46XX). The syndrome results in the absence of the upper two-thirds of the vagina and severe hypoplasia or aplasia of the uterus and cervix. This paper aimed to investigate the social and psychological impacts of Müllerian agenesis before and after reconstructive surgery and to explore the effect of social media in supporting patients with this syndrome. A survey study of 18 patients aged between 16- to 43-year-old with Müllerian agenesis was conducted. The survey consisted of 29 questions that focused on the patients' psychological, social, and sexual status before and after vaginoplasty, as well as the impact of social media in supporting them and their condition. Results showed that the surgery had a positive impact on the patients' marriage and sexual performance, with satisfaction increasing from 58% pre-surgery to 100% post-surgery. Additionally, 89% of patients reported a positive or somewhat positive impact of a support group (WhatsApp). This paper sheds light on the social and psychological aspects of Müllerian agenesis and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to optimize the care and follow-up of patients with this syndrome.