Hematocolpos

Hematocolpos refers to the accumulation of menstrual blood within the vagina, typically due to an obstruction of the outflow tract. This condition usually presents at puberty when menstruation begins, but the outflow is blocked, leading to distension of the vagina with blood. It is often associated with congenital anomalies of the female reproductive system.

This code is used when documentation clearly indicates the presence of retained menstrual blood within the vagina. It is commonly seen in cases of imperforate hymen, transverse vaginal septum, or other vaginal agenesis causing obstruction. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (e.g., ultrasound) confirming vaginal distension with fluid consistent with blood, and clinical findings such as primary amenorrhea with cyclic pelvic pain.

• Ensure documentation specifies the location of blood accumulation as vaginal; if it extends to the uterus, consider codes for hematometra.
• Always look for and code any underlying congenital anomaly causing the obstruction (e.g., imperforate hymen, transverse vaginal septum) as a primary or secondary diagnosis.
• Distinguish from hematometra (blood in the uterus) or hematosalpinx (blood in the fallopian tube), which are distinct conditions with different codes.