What Are Vaginal Fistulas?
Vaginal fistulas are abnormal tracts or passage ways that connect an organ with an opening into the vagina. The common organs involved are the bladder, ureters, urethra, and the rectum. These tracts cause urine and stool to pass into the vagina. Bladder fistulas are the commonest type of vaginal fistulas. Risk factors for developing vaginal fistulas are recent pelvic surgery, pelvic radiation or infection in the pelvic area. Patients with Crohn’s disease are at risk for vaginal fistulas as well.
