Vagina

ANATOMY

The vagina is a muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. The cervix projects into the vagina, creating a recessed superior region called the fornix. The hollow lumen of the vagina is bordered by tissue folds called rugae. The distal opening of the vagina is partially covered by the hymen, an extension of the lining that extends into the orifice. Physical and sexual activity eventually damage the hymen. The vaginal orifice is surrounded by the external genitalia, collectively known as the vulva.

The wall of the vagina consists of an outer coating of connective tissue known as adventitia. Like other female reproductive organs, the middle layer of the vagina is smooth muscle. The lining of the vagina is epithelium, similar to the type of epithelium that makes up the inside of the cheeks.

PHYSIOLOGY

The vagina receives the erect penis during sexual intercourse and is the site of sperm deposition. In addition to receiving incoming sperm, the vagina also transports outgoing material. The vagina conveys uterine secretions and menstrual flow to the outside of the body. It also serves as the birth canal, delivering a new person to the world.

Figure 1: Illustration showing the vagina, including the positioning of the fornix and rugae.