Only females are affected by Turner syndrome, which is a chromosomal condition. Turner syndrome is present when one of the X chromosomes is partially or completely missing. This condition can cause multiple medical and developmental problems for girls and women.
Turner syndrome is sometimes diagnosed prenatally, but also during infancy or early childhood. When the signs and symptoms are mild, it may not be diagnosed until a girl is in her teens or young adult years. Because of the various medical concerns, girls and women with this syndrome require ongoing medical care from various specialists. When they receive the necessary care, these females are able to lead healthy, independent lives.
Women with Turner syndrome are usually infertile. Rarely will one become pregnant without assistance. Others require fertility treatment in order to become pregnant.
The complications with this condition are many. Therefore, it is important that a woman seeking to become pregnant be evaluated by a cardiologist before proceeding. Women with Turner syndrome who become pregnant have increased risks of serious complications, including high blood pressure and aortic dissection.
