The Board has determined that the Veteran's claims for a compensable evaluation for rectovaginal fistula, service connection for bacterial vaginosis as secondary to her service-connected rectovaginal fistula, and SMC on account of loss of use of a creative organ due to her service-connected rectovaginal fistula are remanded. The Veteran will need to undergo additional examinations and provide clarification regarding the severity of her conditions.
The deciding factor: The Board found that there were errors in the duty to assist, particularly with respect to developing claims for secondary service connection and SMC loss of use of a creative organ. These issues require further development before they can be adjudicated.
- Claimed conditions
- rectovaginal fistula, bacterial vaginosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- April 24, 2026
- Citation
- A26038567
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation A26038567.
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Partly granted
The veteran was granted a 30 percent rating for bacterial vaginosis, service connection for female sexual arousal disorder and an acquired psychiatric disorder, but the claim for bilateral hearing loss was denied.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to insufficient evidence regarding the relationship between the Veteran's gynecological disorder and her service, as well as potential exposure to toxic substances during military service.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeals for service connection on multiple conditions have been dismissed as she has withdrawn her appeal.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to insufficient examination and conflicting medical opinions. The Veteran's gynecological conditions, including dysmenorrhea, need further evaluation by a clinician.
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