Human Anatomy Part 1 - K. A. Dyubenko, A. K. Kolomiytsev, Yu. B. Chaykovsky 2002

Special Part
Reproductive Systems, systemata genitalia - Female Reproductive System, systema genitale femininum
Internal Female Genital Organs, organa genitalia feminina interna - Vagina

The Vagina (Greek colpos, hence colpitis meaning inflammation of the vagina) is a muscular, elastic tube 8–10 cm long (see Fig. 328) located in the lower portion of the female lesser pelvis. Its upper end surrounds the cervix, while its lower end pierces the urogenital Diaphragm and opens into the Vestibule of the vagina, vestibulum vaginae. In virgins or nulliparous women, the Base of the vestibule and its lower end are separated by the hymen, hymen. The vagina is involved in sexual intercourse and Fertilization, and also forms part of the birth canal.

The vagina has two walls: the anterior wall, paries anterior, and the posterior wall, paries posterior, which are in contact with each other, causing the lumen of the vagina to appear as a slit in cross-section. In the upper part of the vagina, between it and the cervix, a closed recess is formed—the fornix, fornix vaginae—the posterior part of which is deeper than the anterior.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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