What defines a vaginal fistula?

A vaginal fistula is characterized as an abnormal opening that forms between the vagina and another organ, which may include the bladder, rectum, or urethra. This condition can arise from various causes, including childbirth complications, surgical procedures, or radiation therapy, which can disrupt the normal anatomical barriers between these structures. When a fistula forms, it can lead to symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and recurrent infections, significantly impacting the quality of life.

The other options relate to different medical conditions. The second choice describes endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, while the third refers to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder characterized by multiple cysts in the ovaries. The last option pertains to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects airflow in the lungs due to airway inflammation and obstruction. Each of these conditions is distinct from a vaginal fistula, highlighting the identifier of the abnormal opening as the key characteristic that defines the condition.