What is the vagina?

Anatomy
Written By Stine Andreasen
 

Written by Dr. Specialist Stine Andreassen
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, PhD in Obstetrics in 2015 and more than 15 years of clinical practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology

 

The vagina is a flexible, muscular canal that connects the vulva to the cervix. It is an important part of the female reproductive system and plays a role in menstruation, sexual intercourse, childbirth, and vaginal health.

The vagina is designed to stretch and adapt throughout life. It can accommodate menstrual flow, sexual activity, medical examinations, and childbirth while maintaining a healthy internal environment.

Where is the vagina located?

The vagina is located inside the pelvis between the bladder and the rectum. It extends from the vaginal opening, which is part of the vulva, to the cervix, which forms the lower part of the uterus. In most adults, the vagina measures approximately 7–10 centimeters in length when relaxed, although this varies from person to person. The vaginal walls contain folds called rugae, which allow the vagina to expand when needed.

What is the difference between the vulva and the vagina?

The terms vulva and vagina are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different parts of the reproductive system. The vulva refers to the external genital area that can be seen from the outside of the body. It includes:

  • The labia majora

  • The labia minora

  • The clitoris

  • The urethral opening

  • The vaginal opening

The vagina is the internal muscular canal located inside the body. Understanding the difference is important because many conditions affect either the vulva or the vagina specifically.

What does the vagina do?

The vagina serves several important functions.

Menstruation

During menstruation, menstrual blood leaves the uterus through the cervix and passes through the vagina before leaving the body. The vagina therefore acts as the passageway for menstrual flow.

Sexual intercourse

During sexual intercourse, the vagina receives the penis and serves as a pathway through which sperm can enter the reproductive tract. The vagina is highly adaptable and can expand during sexual activity. Natural lubrication produced by the vaginal tissues helps reduce friction and support comfort.

Childbirth

The vagina forms part of the birth canal during vaginal delivery. During childbirth, the vaginal tissues stretch significantly to allow the baby to pass through. The vagina is designed to recover remarkably well after birth, although some women may experience temporary soreness or changes in pelvic floor support.

Protection and self-cleaning

The vagina contains beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy environment. These bacteria produce substances that keep the vaginal pH slightly acidic, which helps protect against infection. The vagina is self-cleaning and normally produces discharge that helps remove dead cells and maintain balance.

What is normal vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a normal part of vaginal health. Healthy discharge may:

  • Be clear or white

  • Vary throughout the menstrual cycle

  • Increase around ovulation

  • Have little or no odor

The amount and appearance of discharge often change due to hormonal fluctuations.

When should I be concerned about vaginal discharge?

Changes in discharge may sometimes indicate an infection or another condition. Consider seeking medical advice if you notice:

  • A strong or unpleasant odor

  • Green, yellow, or gray discharge

  • Vaginal itching or irritation

  • Burning during urination

  • Pelvic pain

  • Bleeding after menopause

Many vaginal symptoms are treatable, and a healthcare professional can help determine the cause.

How does the vagina change during the menstrual cycle?

The vagina responds to hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle.

Around ovulation:

  • Vaginal discharge often becomes clearer

  • Secretions may increase

  • The environment becomes more favorable for sperm survival

After ovulation:

  • Discharge often becomes thicker

  • Vaginal secretions may decrease

These changes are a normal part of reproductive physiology.

How does the vagina change during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, increased blood flow and hormonal changes affect the vaginal tissues. Common changes may include:

  • Increased vaginal discharge

  • Greater sensitivity

  • Changes in color due to increased blood flow

These changes are usually normal and help support pregnancy.

How does the vagina change during menopause?

Menopause causes a significant decline in estrogen levels. As a result, vaginal tissues may become:

  • Thinner

  • Less elastic

  • Drier

Some women experience:

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Irritation

  • Discomfort during sexual intercourse

  • Increased urinary symptoms

These changes are common and can often be managed with lifestyle measures or medical treatment.

Related resource:What is menopause?

How can I maintain vaginal health?

Simple measures can help support vaginal health. These include:

  • Avoiding harsh soaps and scented products

  • Wearing breathable underwear

  • Practicing safe sex

  • Attending recommended gynecological examinations and cervical screening

  • Seeking medical advice for persistent symptoms

Because the vagina is naturally self-cleaning, routine douching is generally not recommended.

Does the vagina change throughout life?

Yes, the vagina changes throughout different life stages.

  • During puberty: Hormones cause the vaginal tissues to mature and become more elastic.

  • During the reproductive years: Hormonal fluctuations influence lubrication and discharge patterns.

  • During pregnancy: The vagina undergoes changes that support childbirth.

  • During menopause: Lower estrogen levels can affect tissue thickness, elasticity, and lubrication. These changes are a normal part of aging.

Related resources

 

FAQ – The vagina

  • The vagina is a flexible muscular canal that connects the vulva to the cervix and uterus.

  • The vulva refers to the external genital structures, while the vagina is the internal canal located inside the body.

  • The vagina plays a role in menstruation, sexual intercourse, childbirth, and maintaining reproductive health.

  • Yes. Clear or white discharge is usually a normal part of vaginal health and may vary throughout the menstrual cycle.

  • Lower estrogen levels can cause the vaginal tissues to become thinner, drier, and less elastic.

  • Yes. The vagina has a natural self-cleaning system and normally does not require internal cleansing or douching.

Stine Andreasen
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