[Women after surgically corrected vaginal aplasia: a follow-up of psychosexual rehabilitation].

In 24 patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küstner syndrome we carried out a post-operative follow-up examination. In the majority of cases, the operation had yielded functionally satisfactory results. 20 out of 24 of the patient collective now lead a healthy sexual life with an unimpaired emotional and sexual responsiveness. Early and regular postoperative cohabitation is vital for long-term success of surgical results and more important than regular of the wearing phantom. A successful operation greatly increases the patient's self-esteem, her feeling of being sexually attractive, and her self-confidence. Despite general satisfaction with operational results, several women voiced criticism about inadequate perioperative psychological support. The patients' legitimate need for psychological help and guidance must not be neglected. This can take the form of regular discussions, in which detailed explanations about the disorder are given and which must also cover the subject of infertility, a cause of particular anguish in most women. This approach will contribute to enhancing the women's emotional stability and help them to better cope with their problems. It is our experience, that it is beneficial to include the patient's partner in such counselling.