Karla Wlock’s Journey and Services for
Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome

Introduction

Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that affects approximately 1 in 4,500 women and individuals assigned female at birth. Living with MRKH presents unique challenges—not only physically, but also emotionally and psychologically. Karla Wlock, a dedicated psychiatric nurse and clinical counsellor based in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, committed to supporting young women diagnosed with MRKH. Through her own lived experience and her professional training, Karla offers both understanding and practical guidance to help others reclaim their worth and chart an empowered path forward.

Karla Wlock’s Personal Journey with MRKH

Karla’s journey began at the age of 13 in 1993, when she received the life-altering diagnosis of MRKH syndrome. Like many others facing this diagnosis, she was confronted with the devastating reality that she would not be able to give birth to biological children due to a malformed uterus. The news struck deeply, shattering her sense of self-worth and confidence. The emotional toll was compounded when she learned that her vagina was underdeveloped, meaning sexual relationships would require medical interventions to be possible.

Throughout her adolescence and adulthood, Karla struggled with feelings of brokenness and isolation, believing, at times, that she might not ever be loved or accepted. The early years were marked by a profound sense of shame—a deeply internalized belief that she was not “enough.” Navigating relationships, both romantic and platonic, was especially challenging. Even more difficult was learning to build a compassionate relationship with herself and finding her place in the world.

Finding Community and Empowerment

For many years, Karla’s journey was one of solitary struggle. However, in 2019, her life shifted when she discovered an online support group for women living with MRKH. Within this community, she connected with young women who shared her experiences, challenges, and hopes. This sense of belonging was transformative, sparking empowerment and a newfound determination to understand MRKH from all angles—physiological, psychological, and social.

Over the past two years, Karla has devoted herself to researching MRKH, both to deepen her own understanding and to better support others. She has come to recognize how MRKH can strip young women of their self-worth, replacing it with shame and the belief that they are inadequate. Her mission is to break this cycle and help others realize that MRKH is something that has happened to them, but it does not define who they are.

Professional Background and Expertise

Karla holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from Brandon University (2011) and a Master of Psychiatric Nursing, completed in 2020, with a specialization in clinical counselling. Her specialized training includes motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed counselling.

Her professional career began by providing counselling to individuals facing depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Through clinical practice and continued education, Karla has developed a comprehensive understanding of the unique mental health needs of those living with MRKH and similar conditions.

Areas of Expertise

Karla’s approach is both holistic and evidence-based, grounded in empathy and lived experience. She offers support in the following areas:

Psychological Impacts

Addressing grief, shame, self-worth, identity, and concepts of womanhood.

Physiology of MRKH

Guidance on navigating the medical system and understanding the physical aspects of MRKH.

MRKH Treatment Approaches

Information and support regarding dilation and vaginoplasty.

Sexual Relationships

Exploring intimacy, sexuality, and overcoming barriers to fulfilling relationships.

Navigating Relationships

Support for managing disclosure of diagnosis within romantic, friend, and family circles.

Reproductive Opportunities

Discussion of fertility options and alternative paths to parenthood.

Mental Health Issues

Addressing depression, anxiety, and the broader impact on mental wellbeing.

Family Dynamics

Understanding how MRKH affects the family unit, including parent-child relationships.

Mother/Daughter Relationship

Strategies for navigating this relationship after a diagnosis.

Support for Families

Guidance for those supporting a loved one with MRKH.

Approach to Counselling

  • Karla’s counselling philosophy emphasizes empathy, understanding, and empowerment. She acknowledges the courage it takes to seek support and strives to create a safe space where young women and girls can share openly without fear of judgment.
  • Her work centers on deconstructing the shame associated with MRKH, helping clients see their diagnosis as only one part of their identity—not the entirety of who they are. By fostering selfcompassion and resilience, Karla supports her clients in reclaiming their sense of agency and building a life defined by their strengths and aspirations.
  • Sessions are personalized to each individual’s unique circumstances, integrating a range of therapeutic modalities and practical strategies. Whether clients seek short-term support or longterm guidance, they find a compassionate ally in Karla.

The Process

Services Offered

Karla provides counselling services tailored to the needs of individuals ages 13 to 99. Her services are available in multiple formats to accommodate different preferences and circumstances:

In-Office Sessions

For those who prefer face-to-face counselling in a safe, confidential environment.

Virtual Sessions

Convenient, secure online appointments for clients across distances.

Phone Sessions

Flexible and accessible support via phone.

The cost for counselling is $120 CAD per hour. Recognizing that the decision to seek help can feel daunting, Karla offers a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. This introductory call is an opportunity for prospective clients to connect, discuss their needs, and determine if the therapeutic relationship will be a good fit.

About Karla

Beyond her professional and advocacy work, Karla is deeply rooted in her own community and family. She lives in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada with her supportive spouse, a beloved dog, and two cherished cats. She is a daughter, sister, and proud aunt, drawing strength and joy from her familial roles every day.

Living with MRKH can be isolating, but it does not have to be a journey taken alone. Through compassionate counselling and a deep understanding of both the physiological and psychological challenges, Karla Wlock offers a beacon of hope and empowerment for those navigating this path. Her unique combination of lived experience, professional expertise, and empathetic approach makes her an invaluable resource for the MRKH community.