Normal embryological development of the female genital tract

Abstract

Aim: To present all the available data on the stages of normal embryological development of the female genital and urinary tract.Brief description of the reviewed data: Current embryological knowledge shows that the mesonephric or Wolffian ducts and the female gubernaculum play a role as inductors for the adequate development and formation of the Mãllerian ducts. Also, the mesonephric ducts together with the mãllerian tubercle form the vagina. The ureteral bud sprouting from the opening of the mesonephric ducts into the urogenital sinus determine the adequate formation of the urinary system and the kidneys. Any lesion of these elements will produce different female genital tract malformations depending on the injury location.Clinical implications: Female genital tract malformations are frequently a cause of reproductive problems. Besides, complex malformations also frequently generate serious gynaecological problems, often ones with inappropriate surgical solutions, as the gynecologist does not think of the malformation as either the cause of the symptoms or of its embryonic origin. Knowing the embryological origin of the female genitourinary malformations, will allow the gynaecologist to understand the malformation, suspect other associated anomalies and choose the best therapeutical approach for the patient. Open issues for further research: Mechanism of cavitation and epidermisation of the vagina, Blind hemivagina cases without renal agenesis and renal agenesis cases without genital malformation, Female gubernaculum dysfunctions and associated anomalies.