The vagina is a muscular, stretchy canal about 7-9 cm long running upward and backward from the vulva to the cervix. It lies behind the bladder and urethra and in front of the rectum. It is lined by a folded, non-keratinised squamous epithelium kept moist by cervical mucus and kept acidic by lactobacilli.
| Location | From the vestibule of the vulva to the cervix, between the urethra and bladder in front and the rectum and anal canal behind |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Uterovaginal plexus (upper three quarters); Pudendal nerve (lower quarter, via the deep perineal nerve) |
| Blood Supply | Vaginal artery; Uterine artery (vaginal branch); Internal pudendal artery; Middle rectal artery |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Receives the penis and semen in intercourse, provides the passage for menstrual flow and forms the birth canal.
The acidic, lactobacillus-rich environment protects against infection; disruption of it leads to bacterial vaginosis or thrush. After menopause, falling oestrogen thins the lining, causing dryness and discomfort. The vaginal walls can bulge from weakened support, letting the bladder (cystocele) or rectum (rectocele) push in. The vaginal vault is used to examine the cervix and to reach pelvic structures.
Inflammation of the vagina, commonly from bacterial vaginosis, candida or trichomonas, causing discharge, itch or odour.
Bulging of the bladder, uterus or rectum into the vagina from weak pelvic support.
Thinning and dryness of the vaginal lining after menopause, with pain on intercourse and urinary symptoms.
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