Reproductive and Obstetric Outcomes in Patents with OHVIRA Syndrome: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.54.70247Keywords
OHVIRA syndrome, Herlyn–Werner–Wunderlich syndrome, obstructed hemivagina, uterine didelphys, fertility, reproductive outcomes, pregnancy outcomesAbstract
Background. Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome is a rare congenital malformation of the female urogenital tract. Although its anatomical features, diagnostic and surgical approaches are well described, its impact on reproductive and obstetric outcomes is not yet fully established.
Aim. To review the available literature and summarize the impact of OHVIRA syndrome on fertility and obstetric outcomes.
Material and methods. A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar database. Studies published within the last 5 years were screened. Inclusion criteria comprised observational studies and case series including at least three patients with a confirmed diagnosis of OHVIRA/HWW syndrome and reported reproductive outcomes. Five studies providing the most comprehensive and comparable data were included in the analysis.
Results. A total of 562 patients with OHVIRA syndrome were analyzed. Among women attempting conception, infertility rates ranged from 0% to 36%. Overall, 120 pregnancies were reported in 56 women. The live birth rate was 48.3%, with substantial heterogeneity across studies. The majority of pregnancies were implanted in the uterus contralateral to the obstructed hemivagina. Obstetric complications included miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, breech presentation, and cesarean deliveries were more frequent than in the general population. Endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease were commonly reported and may negatively affect reproductive outcomes.
Conclusions. OHVIRA syndrome, although rare, has important implications for reproductive health. While fertility may be preserved in many patients, pregnancy outcomes appear less favorable, with an increased risk of obstetric complications. Early diagnosis and timely surgical management are crucial to optimize reproductive potential.
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