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Gynecologic trauma is any injury to the female genital area.
Trauma can be accidental or intentional, in the case of abuse.
Patients can be seen by Texas Children's experts in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology.
Causes & Risk Factors
Common causes of trauma include:
- Straddle injuries – falling and landing on an object between the legs, particularly while bike riding or playing on playground equipment; this is the most common type of trauma in girls 14 and under
- Foreign objects inserted in the vagina – such as crayons or beads, particularly in girls under age 4
- Sexual abuse
- Sex for the first time
- Penetrating injuries
Symptoms & Types
- Pain in the genital area – can be extreme
- Vaginal bleeding – can be heavy
- Rectal bleeding
- Bruising
- Swelling and redness
- Problems urinating
- Abdominal pain
- Faintness
- Embedded object
- Vomiting
- Abrasions
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Laceration to the hymenal area
Diagnosis & Tests
Diagnosis starts with a detailed discussion of symptoms and how the trauma occurred, and a thorough physical examination, including the genital area.
Additional diagnostic testing may include:
- Pelvic exam
- X-ray or other imaging – to determine possible injury to internal reproductive organs
- Laparoscopy – to view internal reproductive organs
- Vaginal discharge sample – for testing for sexually transmitted infections
Treatment & Care
Treatment strategies may include:
- Pressure to control bleeding
- Cold compresses to reduce swelling
- Removal of foreign objects
- Antibiotics
- Education – on safety and injury prevention
- Surgery – to restore structure and function of the injured area
Reporting Abuse
If you have been sexually assaulted or suspect you have been abused, seek immediate medical help at the nearest emergency care facility.
Confidential resources are available to support you any time you want to speak with someone, including:
- Domestic and Teen Abuse: 1-800-992-2600
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest, National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE
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Conditions
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