Structure and Function of the Vagina, with Changes Throughout Different Life Stages

Today, we’ll guide all women to learn about the “vagina,” an organ that is vital to the female reproductive system. It plays a crucial role in reproduction, including sexual intercourse and childbirth. The vagina serves not only physiological functions but also holds significant health importance. Let’s explore the anatomy of the vagina together.

Structure of the Vagina

The vagina is a flexible tubular organ located between the cervix and the outside. It measures approximately 7-10 centimeters in length in most women. The vagina is highly elastic, allowing it to expand during sexual intercourse or childbirth.

The main structures of the vagina include

  • Vaginal Lining: The internal lining of the vagina serves as protection and helps prevent infection by producing natural lubricant. This lining has a mucous surface and can change according to different phases of the menstrual cycle and hormones in the body.
  • Vaginal Muscles: The muscles of the vagina help with expansion and contraction. These muscles play an important role in controlling urination, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.
  • Vaginal Canal: A flexible tube that extends from the cervix to the vaginal opening that leads to the outside.
  • Vaginal Passage: The vagina has elasticity that allows it to expand during sexual intercourse or childbirth.

Functions of the Vagina

The vagina performs several functions, which sometimes may not receive much attention from the general public

  • Sexual Intercourse: The vagina is involved in penetration during sexual intercourse.
  • Childbirth: The vagina plays a crucial role in delivering the baby from the uterus during birth.
  • Menstrual Blood Flow: During menstruation, the vagina helps discharge blood and tissue from the uterus.
  • Maintaining Microbial Balance: The vagina has an immune system that helps prevent infection by maintaining the balance of bacteria present in the vagina.

Changes in the Vagina Throughout Different Life Stages

The vagina changes according to age and various circumstances, such as

  • During Adolescence: When women enter puberty, increased female hormones cause the vagina to develop and differ from childhood. The vagina begins to produce lubrication and starts functioning to prevent infection.
  • During Pregnancy: The vagina expands and undergoes physiological changes to accommodate the growth of the fetus.
  • During Menopause: As women enter menopause, estrogen levels decrease, causing the vagina to become drier and thinner. This can sometimes lead to discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.

The vagina is therefore an organ that plays a crucial role in every woman’s life, from sexual intercourse to childbirth and maintaining balance in the reproductive system. Understanding the structure and functions of the vagina, as well as proper vaginal care, will help us maintain vaginal health effectively, prevent health problems, and improve our sexual health.

For more information or consultation about vaginal health, please contact

Dr.Aomthong Clinic
Tha It – Nonthaburi Branch: Tel. 098-271-3301
The Walk Kaset-Nawamin Branch: Tel. 082-172-7898
Email : DrAomthongClinic@Gmail.com
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