SYNECHIAS OF VULVA IN SMALL CHILDREN

The condition referred to in the following pages has been variously called synechias of the vulva, atresia of the vulva, vulvar fusion, occlusion of the vaginal vestibule, acquired gynatresia, adherent labia minora and other descriptive names. (The common adhesions about the clitoris analogous to preputial adhesions in males will not be discussed here.) Considering that the anomaly is apparently common, the American literature is surprisingly mute on the subject. Most references occur in European articles. Griffith and Mitchell1remarked: "Atresia of the vulva is rare. There may be only epithelial adhesions of the greater or lesser labia, or there may be a firmer union, which if not complete will cause a retention of mucous secretions and later of menstrual discharges (hematocolpos), and if complete will also interfere with the passage of urine." Holt and McIntosh2stated: "Atresia of the vulva is not uncommon. It is usually due to