


Here are some health conditions that may affect the inside of the vagina: Vaginitis Signs and symptoms of conditions affecting the vagina may include unusual discharge, pain, or visible changes. The individual can see their doctor for a checkup and report any other symptoms.Ī range of conditions can affect the vagina and how it looks and feels inside. If a person notices any significant change in their vaginal discharge, this could indicate an underlying issue. Healthy discharge is usually clear to white or pale yellow, and it can have a mild odor. Vaginal discharge can change slightly in consistency and color during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.

Self-exams are helpful alongside regular gynecologist pelvic examinations and cervical screening. Learn more about the vulva here.Ī person can carry out a self-exam of their vagina to check for any unusual changes that may indicate a health issue. The vulva includes the labia minora and majora, or the “lips,” which protect the vaginal opening. However, the only part of the vagina visible outside of the body is the vaginal opening. The area visible externally, the vulva, is what many people refer to as the vagina. The Gräfenberg spot, or G spot, sits a few inches inside the vagina at the front. During arousal, the glands release fluid that lubricates the vagina. People cannot usually see or feel these glands. The Bartholin’s glands are on either side of the vaginal opening. During sexual arousal, the uterus and cervix lift upward, elongating the vagina.

The vagina expands through arousal and sexual stimulation. A small hole in the cervix allows menstrual blood and sperm to pass through. The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina. Sexual intercourse or exercise can stretch or tear it. The hymen is a thin layer of tissue that surrounds and partially covers the vaginal opening. The vaginal opening is where blood leaves the body during menstruation, a penis enters during sexual intercourse, and a baby leaves the body during birth. The opening of the vagina is between the urethra, through which urine leaves the body, and the anus. Some vaginas are oval like an egg, while others can be more cylindrical. The shape of a vagina can vary from person to person. The vagina is an elastic tube that connects the uterus and cervix to the vulva.
