Many people mistakenly refer to the entire female genital area as the “vagina,” but the correct term for the external parts is the vulva. This includes the labia, clitoris, urethral opening, vaginal opening (introitus), and surrounding tissue.
The vagina itself is the internal muscular tube that connects the vulva to the cervix. It plays essential roles in menstruation, childbirth, and sexual activity. Blood exits through the vagina during periods, and it’s the canal through which babies are born.
During arousal, blood flow increases, causing the vagina to expand and produce more lubrication. It also serves as a route for inserting tampons, menstrual cups, fingers, sex toys, and medication like vaginal suppositories or contraceptive rings.
As with the rest of the body, the vagina changes with age, often becoming less elastic or lubricated over time. Understanding vaginal anatomy helps in maintaining sexual and reproductive health throughout all stages of life.