Cross-section of the female genital organ. The human reproductive system: structure. female reproductive system

The ovary (ovarium) (Fig. 186, 187) is a paired organ located on both sides of the uterus. The mass of the ovary is 5-8 g, the length varies from 2.5 to 5 cm. The formation and maturation of female germ cells occurs in the ovary. In its position, the ovary is held by its own (lig. ovarii proprium) (Fig. 187) and suspension (lig. suspensorium ovarii) (Fig. 187) ligaments of the ovary.

In addition, the organ is attached to the broad ligament of the uterus with the help of the mesentery of the ovary (mesovarium) (Fig. 187), which is formed at its posterior edge by the peritoneum. The convex free edge of the ovary is turned back to the pelvic surface of the sacrum.

Rice. 186. Female genital organs (side view):

1 - fallopian tube;
2 - fringes of the fallopian tube;
3 - ovary;
4 - the body of the uterus;
5 - uterine cavity;
6 - cervix;
7 - opening of the uterus;
8 - bladder;
9 - vagina;
10 - rectum;
11 - urethra;
12 - clitoris;
13 - opening of the vagina;
14 - small labia;
15 - large labia

The ovary is formed by the medulla ovarii, consisting of connective tissue - the stroma of the ovary (stroma ovarii) (Fig. 188) and containing blood vessels and nerves, and the cortical substance (cortex ovarii), with many follicles in which the egg is located. As the primary ovarian follicles (folliculus ovaricus primarius) grow, they turn into mature vesicular follicles (folliculus ovaricus vesiculosus) (Fig. 188), which are also called Graafian vesicles. After ovulation, a corpus luteum (corpus luteum) is formed at the site of the vesicular follicle (Fig. 188), which subsequently atrophies, turning into a whitish body (corpus albicans).

Rice. 187. Ovary, fallopian tube and uterus:

1 - the bottom of the uterus;
2 - isthmus of the fallopian tube;
3 - own ligament of the ovary;
4 - mesentery of the ovary;
5 - ampulla of the fallopian tube;
6 - fringes of the fallopian tube;
7 - abdominal opening of the fallopian tube;
8 - the body of the uterus;
9 - ovary;
10 - suspensory ligament of the ovary;
11 - cervix;
12 - round uterine ligament;
13 - wide uterine ligament;
14 - vagina

The fallopian tube (tuba uterina) (Fig. 186) is also a paired organ located on both sides of the uterus. Its length is 10-12 cm. The wide end of the uterus opens into the peritoneal cavity next to the ovary, the narrow end into the uterine cavity. On this basis, a funnel (infundibulum tubae uterinae) (Fig. 188), an ampulla (ampulla tubae uterinae) (Fig. 187), an isthmus (isthmus tubae uterinae) (Fig. 187) and a uterine, or intramural, part of the fallopian tube are isolated in the organ (pers uterine). The funnel of the fallopian tube ends with the abdominal opening of the fallopian tube (ostium abdominale tubae uterinae) (Fig. 187) and contains a large number of fimbriae of the fallopian tube (fimbriae tubae) (Fig. 186, 187, 188), one of which is attached to the ovary.

The wall of the fallopian tube is formed by mucous, muscular and serous membranes. The mucous membrane (tunica mucosa tubae uterinae) consists of three layers and is covered with a single layer of prismatic ciliated epithelium. It forms multiple longitudinal folds of the fallopian tube (plicae tubariae) (Fig. 188). The muscular membrane of the fallopian tube (tunica muscularis tubae uterinae) consists of an inner circular and outer longitudinal layers of smooth muscle fibers.

The uterus (uterus) (Fig. 187, 188, 189) is an unpaired hollow muscular organ, pear-shaped and located in the small pelvis between the rectum and bladder. Its length in a nulliparous woman is 7-8 cm, in a woman giving birth - 8-9.5 cm. Prenatal development and gestation take place in the uterus. The organ is in a forward tilted position, due to which the cervix forms an obtuse angle with the body, opening towards the bladder (the so-called anteflexio-anteversio position). In its position, the uterus is fixed with the help of wide uterine ligaments (lig. lata uteri) (Fig. 187), going from its sides to the side walls of the pelvis, round uterine ligaments (lig. teres uteri) (Fig. 187), coming from the corners of the bottom uterus through the inguinal canals to the subcutaneous tissue of the pubis, and sacro-uterine and recto-uterine ligaments.

Rice. 188. Ovary, fallopian tube and uterus (back view):

1 - serous membrane of the uterus (perimetry);
2 - the bottom of the uterus;
3 - uterine cavity;
4 - the body of the uterus;
5 - folds of the fallopian tube;
6 - funnel of the uterus;
7 - fringes of the fallopian tube;
8 - the mucous membrane of the uterus (endometrium);
9 - stroma of the ovary;
10 - vesicular ovarian follicles;
11 - corpus luteum of the ovary;
12 - muscular membrane of the uterus (myometrium);
13 - cervix;
14 - palm-shaped folds of the cervical canal;
15 - cervical canal;
16 - vaginal opening of the uterus

The uterus consists of an upper flattened section, called the bottom of the uterus (fundus uteri) (Fig. 187, 188), the middle section - the body of the uterus (corpus uteri) (Fig. 186, 187, 188) and the lower narrowed section - the cervix (cervix uteri ) (Fig. 186, 187, 188). On the frontal section, the uterine cavity (cavum uteri) (Fig. 186, 188) has a triangular shape. In the corners of the base of this triangle, coinciding with the bottom of the uterus, the fallopian tubes open. The top of the triangle of the uterine cavity is turned down and passes into the cervical canal. The transition point is narrowed and is called the internal opening of the uterus. The cervical canal (canalis cervicalis uteri) (Fig. 178) opens into the vagina with the opening of the uterus (ostium uteri) (Fig. 186, 188). In a nulliparous woman, this hole has a round shape, and in a woman who has given birth, it has the shape of a transverse slit.

Rice. 189. Vaginal part of the uterus:

A - the opening of the uterus of a nulliparous woman; B - opening of the uterus of a woman giving birth

The wall of the uterus is formed by the mucous (endometrium), muscular (myometrium) and serous (perimetrium) membranes (Fig. 188). The mucous membrane is covered with a single layer of prismatic ciliated epithelium. On the anterior and posterior walls of the cervical canal, the mucous membrane forms longitudinal palm-shaped folds (plicae palmatae) (Fig. 188). The serous membrane covers the entire uterus, with the exception of the edges and a small area of ​​the anterior part of the cervix. Around the neck under the peritoneum (serous membrane) is periuterine tissue, formed by connective tissue. It is called parametrium. The muscular membrane of the uterus has powerful muscles, due to the reduction of which the fetus is expelled during childbirth.

Rice. 190. External genitalia (female):

1 - anterior commissure of the lips;
2 - clitoris;
3 - large labia;
4 - external opening of the urethra;
5 - the vestibule of the vagina;
6 - labia minora;
7 - opening of the vagina;
8 - hymen;
9 - frenulum of the labia;
10 - back commissure of the lips;
11 - opening of the anus

During pregnancy, the uterus gradually increases, rising from the pelvic cavity into the abdominal cavity.
The vagina (vagina) (Fig. 186, 187) is an extensible tube, the wide upper end of which covers the cervix, and the lower one passes through the urogenital diaphragm of the pelvis and passes into the genital gap. The length of the vagina reaches 8-10 cm. Behind the vagina is the rectum, in front are the urethra and bladder. With all adjacent organs, the vagina is fused with a dense and loose connective tissue. The lower end of the organ is directed forward and down; the upper, extended, has a dome-shaped recess and is called the vaginal vault (fornix vaginae).
The muscular membrane of the vagina is formed by internal circular and external longitudinal smooth muscle fibers. At the same time, the outer shell is dense and contains a large number of elastic fibers.

The mucous membrane is lined with stratified squamous epithelium and forms multiple transverse folds.

Large labia (labia majora pudendi) (Fig. 186, 190) are roller-shaped folds of skin connected to each other by the anterior commissure of the lips (commissura labiorum anterior) (Fig. 190), located in the pubic region, and the posterior commissure (commissura labiorum posterior) (Fig. 190), located in front of the anus.

The labia minora (labia minus pudendi) represent the second pair of skin folds and are located between the labia majora. The space between them is called the vestibule of the vagina (vestibulum vaginae) (Fig. 190). Merging with each other, the labia minora form the frenulum of the labia (frenulum labiorum pudendi) (Fig. 190). In front of the vestibule, the external opening of the urethra opens, and in the depths there is an opening of the vagina (ostium vaginae) (Fig. 190), which in virgins is closed by the hymen (hymen) (Fig. 190), which has small openings of various shapes and sizes.
The bulbs of the vestibule (bulbus vestibuli) are located on each side of the vestibule and are cavernous bodies, at the posterior end of which lie large glands of the vestibule (glandulae vestibulares majores).

The clitoris (clitoris) (Fig. 186, 190) is located in the upper corner of the gap and is a small formation with a huge number of sensitive nerve endings. The cavernous bodies of the clitoris start from the lower branches of the pubic bones with two legs (crura clitoridis).

Rice. 191. Mammary gland:

1 - the body of the mammary gland;
2 - areola circle of the mammary gland;
3 - breast nipple

The mammary gland (glandula mammaria), or chest (mamma), is a paired organ located on the surface of the pectoralis major muscle at the level of III-IV ribs and functionally closely related to the organs of the reproductive system.

The shape of the glands depends on the amount of fatty tissue they contain. On the surface of the middle part of the gland, a pigmented areola circle (areola mammae) (Fig. 191) is clearly visible, in the center of which is the nipple of the mammary gland (papilla mammaria) (Fig. 191).

Fig.192. Mammary gland (horizontal section):

1 - lobules of the mammary gland;
2 — a body of a mammary gland;
3 - excretory lactiferous ducts;
4 - lactiferous sinuses

The body of the mammary gland (corpus mammae) (Fig. 191, 192) of a mature woman is formed by separate lobules (lo-buli glandulae mammariae) (Fig. 192) in the amount of 15-20.

The lobules are separated from each other by layers formed by loose connective and adipose tissue. At the top of the nipple, the excretory ducts of the glands (ductus lactiferi) open (Fig. 192). Before the mouth, the lactiferous ducts expand, forming the lactiferous sinuses (sinus lactiferus) (Fig. 192). The sinuses store milk produced by the glands.

In general, we can say: the female genital organs are absolutely individual. Their size, color, location, shapes create unique combinations. But even here there is a classification. For example, by the location of the vulva. The one closest to the navel is called the "English lady". If the vagina is closer to the anus, then this is a “minx”. And those who have taken a strictly middle position are called “queens”.

Many nations have their names for different sizes of the vagina. So, in tantric sexology there are three main types.

The first is a deer (no deeper than 12.5 centimeters). The female fallow deer has a tender, girlish body, firm breasts and hips, is well built, eats in moderation, and loves to have sex.

The second is a mare (no deeper than 17.5 centimeters). The female mare has a slender body, lush breasts and hips, and a noticeable belly. This is a very flexible, graceful and loving woman.

The third type is the elephant (up to 25 centimeters deep). She has large breasts, a broad face, short arms and legs, and a deep, rough voice.

Poetic comparisons of the vulva by the appearance of the labia are known, which can also be considered a kind of classification: rosebud, lily, dahlia, aster and tea rose ...

A peculiar (to put it mildly) “classification” of vaginas is given in the book of the Polish author M. Kinessa “Marriage under a microscope. The physiology of human sexual life” (there are still disputes about whether he actually existed). Here is what he writes, referring to a certain Professor Jacobson. “In addition to the topographic position of the gap (queens, kings), sips, patties, the genitals of women also differ in the size of the vagina - length, width. The position of the clitoris, relative to the vagina - high, low. The size of the clitoris - big, small. The size and design of the labia, especially small ones. The degree of moistening of the vagina with juice during sexual arousal - dry and excessively moistened vagina, and also by the plane in which the genital tube of the woman is compressed.

The classification is as follows:

CELKA - a girl's sexual organ untouched by men (in Polish “Pervachka”).

DICKA - a sexual organ with an extensible hymen, which persists until childbirth.

CHILEAN - the sexual organ of a girl without a hymen. Found in India, Brazil, Chile. This is explained by the fact that mothers in these countries wash little girls so vigorously that the hymen is completely destroyed even in early childhood.

EVA - vulva with a large clitoris (6-8 cm or more), women with a large clitoris are less intelligent, but more sensitive.

MILKA - a vulva with a clitoris located close to the entrance to the vagina (low) and rubbing during intercourse directly with the penis of a man. Women with Milka are easily satisfied, during sexual intercourse they almost do not require caresses.

PAVA - a vulva with a high located clitoris. During intercourse, such a vulva is extremely in need of caresses, since her clitoris does not rub directly against the man's penis, but rubs against other parts of the man's body, which greatly reduces feelings.

ZAMAZULYA - vulva with abundant sap secretion during sexual arousal of a woman. Causes discomfort in a sexual partner and often leads a man to refuse copulation.

DRUG - an underdeveloped flat external organ of a woman with infantile labia. It occurs, as a rule, in thin women with a narrow pelvis, almost all Kostyanka are Sipovki, that is, they have a low location of the genitals, reports sexbutik.by. The drupe is one of the most unattractive genital organs for men.

MONKEY - the sexual organ of a woman with an abnormally long clitoris, more than 3 cm. It is so named because in some monkeys the clitoris reaches a length of 7 cm and is often longer than the penis of a male.

HOTTENDOT APRON - a female genital organ with overdeveloped labia, covering the entrance to the vagina and hanging beyond the labia majora. Such an organ pathology can develop as a result of excessive female onanism on the labia.

PRINCESS - the most beautiful female genital organ with a well-developed clitoris, small labia in the form of a pink flower bud above the entrance to the vagina. The princess is the most beloved by men, the most attractive and convenient for intercourse in any position is the sexual organ of a woman. With good hormonal secretion, a woman who has a princess is able to receive and deliver unspeakable pleasure to a man. In addition, the small size of the genital tube, which also attracts men. The princess is found only in short (but medium-sized women inclusive) women with full hips, developed breasts and a wide pelvis.

Half-princess, half-drugs, half-eves, etc. organs occupy an intermediate position.

This classification of the appearance of the vulva. Some authors also mention transverse vulvas, “Mongolian type” vulvas. But no less important for the course of sexual intercourse is the size of the genital organs of women.

These dimensions are described by the following classification:

by lenght:

Manilka - a vagina up to 7 cm long (beckons men);

Swan - 8-9 cm:

Guinea fowl - 10 cm

Fool - 11-12 cm

Manda - 13 cm or more.

in width:

Khmelevka - vagina 2.5 cm wide (gives men hops)

Enchantress - 3 cm (enchants men)

Slastunya - 3.5 cm (sweetened during intercourse)

Lyubava - 4 cm

Hetera - 5 cm or more (as prostitutes were called in ancient times).

Sexologists use the following terminology:

Bacchante - a female organ with easily excitable erogenous zones, always having a desire for caresses. Such an organ is popularly called “hot vulva” (in Georgian, tskheli muteli).

Forget-me-not is a female organ that has not given birth.

The bride is a monogamous vulva, that is, a female organ that knew the caress of only one man.

Chamomile is a girl's sexual organ before the onset of the first menstruation and hair growth.

The Madonna is the vulva that experienced sexual intercourse for the first time.

A drinking bowl is the sexual organ of a depraved woman.

About the distribution of one or another type of female genital organ.

Let us make a reservation in advance that the frequency with which this or that type of female vulva occurs is different in different peoples. The names of the vulvae given by me, depending on the length and width of the vagina, are valid for the peoples of Europe, including Greece, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Russia.

They are found in Europe with the following probability:

Eva - one in twenty vulvas, Milka - one in thirty vulvas, Pava - very common, Kostyanka - quite common, in Europe, each of the 6 vulvas Kostyanka, and in some peoples more often, Khmelevka - one in 70 vulvas, Manilka - one for 90 vulvas, Swan - one for 12 vulvas, Enchantress - one for 15 vulvas. As for the Princess - the most charming female organ, looking at which even women experience aesthetic pleasure, not to mention men, they meet with a probability of one in 50 vulvas.

Sexologists, however, note that in some nations one or another type of female organ may predominate. So, for example, it is no secret that narrow and short vaginas predominate in Greek, French and Italian women (there are a high percentage of Khmelevok, Manilok, Swans, and Enchantresses among them).

Women of African nationalities, as well as black women and mulattos of the American continent, are dominated by long vaginas. Among Georgians, Spanish women and German women, drupes predominate. It can be added that in every nation all the types of genital organs described above are necessarily found.

Modern sexologists say that the vaginotherory described in the above book is a kind of processing of Soviet (to a greater extent) and Polish (to a lesser extent) tales and fabrications about the female genital organ.

Kelly. Fundamentals of modern sexology. Ed. Peter

Translated from English by A. Golubev, K. Isupova, S. Komarov, V. Misnik, S. Pankov, S. Rysev, E. Turutina

The anatomical structure of the male and female genital organs, also called the genitals, has been known for many hundreds of years, but reliable information about their functioning has become available only recently. Male and female genitalia perform many functions and play an important role, participating in reproduction, and in obtaining pleasure, and in establishing a trusting relationship in love.

Oddly enough, most popular sex education textbooks have traditionally treated the male genital organs first as a source of pleasurable sexual sensations, and only then discussed their role in childbearing. In the study of the female genital organs, the emphasis is clearly shifting to the reproductive functions of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. The importance of the role of the vagina, clitoris, and other external structures in sexual pleasure is often overlooked. In this and the following chapter, both the male and female genital organs are described as a potential source of intimacy in human relationships and sexual enjoyment, as well as a potential source of childbearing.

FEMALE GENITAL ORGANS

The female reproductive organs are not exclusively internal. Many of their important structures located externally play a large role in providing sexual arousal, while the internal parts of the female reproductive system are more significant in regulating hormonal cycles and reproductive processes.

The external female genital organs consist of the pubis, labia and clitoris. They are richly innervated and therefore sensitive to stimulation. The shape, size and nature of the pigmentation of the external genital organs vary greatly in different women.

Vulva

The external female genital organs, located between the legs, below and in front of the pubic articulation of the pelvic bones, are collectively called the vulva. The most prominent of these organs is the pubis. ( monsveneris)and large labia (or shameful) lips (labia majora). The pubis, sometimes called the pubic eminence, or the hill of Venus, is a rounded pad formed by subcutaneous adipose tissue and located above the rest of the external organs, just above the pubic bone. During puberty, it is covered with hair. The pubis is quite abundantly innervated, and most women find that friction or pressure in this area can be sexually arousing. The vulva is generally considered the main erogenous zone in women, as it tends to be very sensitive to sexual stimulation.

The labia majora are two folds of skin directed from the pubis down towards the perineum. They can be relatively flat and barely visible in some women, and thick and prominent in others. During puberty, the skin of the large lips darkens slightly, and hair begins to grow on their outer lateral surface. These outer skin folds cover and protect the woman's more sensitive sexual organs inside. The latter cannot be seen unless the large lips are parted, so a woman may need a mirror to be positioned so that these organs can be seen.

When the labia majora are parted, one more, smaller pair of folds can be seen - the labia minora (or pudendal) lips. They look like two asymmetrical petals of skin, pink, hairless and irregularly shaped, which connect at the top and form the skin of the clitoris, which is called the foreskin. Both the labia major and minor are sensitive to sexual stimulation and play an important role in sexual arousal. On the inside of the labia minora are the outlets of the ducts of the Bartholin glands, sometimes called the vulvovaginal glands. At the moment of sexual arousal, a small amount of secretion is secreted from these glands, which, perhaps, helps to moisten the entrance to the vagina and, to some extent, the labia. These secretions, however, are of little value in lubricating the vagina during sexual arousal, and any other function of these glands is unknown. Bartholin's glands sometimes become infected with bacteria from feces or other sources, and in such cases, treatment by a specialist may be required. There are two openings between the labia minora. In order to see them, the labia minora often needs to be moved apart. Almost under the clitoris is the tiny opening of the urethra, or urethra, through which urine is expelled from the body. Below is a larger opening of the vagina, or the entrance to the vagina. This hole is usually not open and can only be perceived as such if something is inserted into it. In many women, especially those in the younger age groups, the entrance to the vagina is partially covered by a membrane-like tissue - the hymen.

The human genital organs are important for both reproduction and pleasure. Historically, sexuality educators have focused on reproductive function and the internal genitalia, especially in women. In recent years, these specialists have also begun to pay attention to those aspects of sexual behavior that are associated with obtaining pleasure, and the external genitalia.

Clitoris

The clitoris, the most sensitive of the female genital organs, is located just below the upper fusion of the labia minora. It is the only organ whose only function is to provide sensitivity to sexual stimulation and be a source of pleasure.

The clitoris is the most sensitive female genital organ. Some form of clitoral stimulation is usually necessary to achieve orgasm, although the most appropriate method varies from woman to woman. The most visible part of the clitoris usually looks like a rounded outgrowth protruding from under the foreskin, which is formed by the upper fusion of the labia minora. This outer, sensitive part of the clitoris is called the glans. For a long time, the clitoris has been likened to the male penis because it is sensitive to sexual stimulation and capable of erection. Sometimes even incorrectly considered the clitoris an underdeveloped penis. In fact, the clitoris and its entire internal system of blood vessels, nerves, and erectile tissue form a highly functional and important sexual organ (Ladas, 1989).

The body of the clitoris is located behind the head under the foreskin. The glans is the only freely protruding part of the clitoris, and, as a rule, it is not particularly mobile. The part of the clitoris, located behind the head, is attached to the body along its entire length. The clitoris is formed by two columnar cavernous bodies and two bulbous cavernous bodies, which are capable of filling with blood during sexual arousal, causing a hardening, or erection, of the entire organ. The length of a non-erect clitoris rarely exceeds 2-3 cm, and in an unexcited state only its top (head) is visible, but during an erection it increases significantly, especially in diameter. As a rule, in the first stages of arousal, the clitoris begins to protrude more than in the unexcited state, but as the arousal builds up, it retracts.

In the skin of the foreskin are tiny glands that secrete a fatty substance, which, mixing with the secrets of other glands, forms a substance called smegma. This substance accumulates around the body of the clitoris, sometimes leading to a benign infection that can cause pain or discomfort, especially during sexual activity. If smegma buildup becomes a problem, it can be removed by a doctor using a small probe inserted under the foreskin. Sometimes the foreskin is slightly incised surgically, further exposing the head and body of the clitoris. This procedure, known in Western culture as circumcision, is rarely performed on women, and doctors find little rationale for it.

Vagina

The vagina is a tube with muscular walls and plays an important role as a female organ associated with childbearing and sexual pleasure. The muscular walls of the vagina are very elastic, and unless something is inserted into the vaginal cavity, they are compressed, so this cavity is better described as a "potential" space. The length of the vagina is about 10 cm, although it is able to lengthen with sexual arousal. The inner surface of the vagina, elastic and soft, is covered with small comb-like protrusions. The vagina is not very sensitive, except for areas immediately surrounding the entrance to it or located deep into the entrance about one third of the length of the vagina. This outer region, however, contains many nerve endings, and its stimulation easily leads to sexual arousal.

The opening of the vagina is surrounded by two groups of muscles: the sphincter of the vagina ( sphincter vaginae)and anus levator ( levator ani). Women are able to control these muscles to some extent, but tension, pain, or fear can cause them to contract involuntarily, making it painful or impossible to insert anything into the vagina. These manifestations are called vaginismus. A woman can also regulate the tone of the internal PC muscle, which, like the anal sphincter, can be contracted or relaxed. This muscle plays a role in the formation of orgasm, and its tone, like the tone of all voluntary muscles, can be learned to regulate with the help of special exercises.

It is important to note that the vagina cannot contract to such an extent that the penis will be held in it. ( penis captivus),although it is possible that some have heard otherwise. In Africa, for example, there are many myths about people who become entangled during sex and have to go to the hospital to be separated. Such myths appear to serve the social function of preventing adultery ( Ecker, 1994). When mating dogs, the penis is erect in such a way that it is trapped in the vagina until the erection subsides, and this is necessary for successful mating. Nothing like this happens to people. During sexual arousal in women, a lubricant is released on the inner surface of the walls of the vagina.

douching

Over the years, women have developed many ways to flush their vaginas, sometimes referred to as douching. It was believed to help prevent vaginal infections and eliminate bad breath. In a study of 8,450 women aged 15 to 44 years, 37% of them were found to douche as part of their regular hygiene routine (Aral , 1992). This practice is especially prevalent among the poor and minority people of color, where the proportion can be as high as two-thirds. One member of the National Black Women's Health Project ( Black Women's Health Project) speculated that douching may represent black women's reactions to negative sexual stereotypes. Meanwhile, research is providing increasing evidence that douching, contrary to popular belief, can be dangerous. Thanks to him, pathogens can penetrate into the uterine cavity, which increases the risk of uterine and vaginal infections. Women who douche more than three times a month put themselves at four times the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease than those who do not douche at all. The vagina has natural cleaning mechanisms that can be disrupted by douching. In the absence of specific medical indications, douching should be avoided.

Hymen

The hymen is a thin, delicate membrane that partially covers the entrance to the vagina. It may cross the opening of the vagina, surround it, or have several openings of various shapes and sizes. The physiological functions of the hymen are unknown, but historically it has had psychological and cultural significance as a sign of virginity.

The hymen, present in the vaginal opening from birth, usually has one or more openings. There are many hymens of various shapes that cover the opening of the vagina to one degree or another. The most common type is the annular hymen. In this case, its tissue is located along the perimeter of the entrance to the vagina, and there is a hole in the center. The hymen tissue of some types extends to the entrance to the vagina. The ethmoid hymen completely covers the opening of the vagina, but it itself has many small openings. The cloisonné is a single strip of tissue that separates the entrance to the vagina into two distinct openings. Occasionally, girls are born with an overgrown hymen, that is, the latter completely closes the opening of the vagina. This can be clarified only with the onset of menstruation, when the fluid, accumulating in the vagina, will cause discomfort. In such cases, the doctor must make a small hole in the hymen to allow the menstrual flow to drain.

In most cases, the hymen has a hole large enough to easily pass a finger or a swab. An attempt to insert a larger object, such as an erect penis, usually results in a tear in the hymen. There are many other circumstances, not related to sexual activity, in which the hymen can be damaged. While it is often claimed that some girls are born without a hymen, recent evidence casts doubt on whether this is actually the case. More recently, a team of pediatricians from the University of Washington examined 1,131 newborn girls and found that each had an intact hymen. From this it was concluded that the absence of a hymen at birth is highly unlikely, if not impossible. It also follows that if the hymen is not found in a little girl, the cause of this most likely was some kind of trauma (Jenny, Huhns, & Arakawa, 1987).

Sometimes the hymen is stretchable enough to be preserved during intercourse. Therefore, the presence of a hymen is an unreliable indicator of virginity. Some peoples attach special importance to the presence of a hymen and special rituals have been established for breaking the hymen of a girl before the first copulation.

In the United States, between 1920 and 1950, some gynecologists performed special surgery on women who were about to get married but didn't want their husbands to know they weren't virgins. The operation, called "lover's knot", consisted in applying one or two stitches to the labia minora in such a way that a thin bond appeared between them. During intercourse during the wedding night, the bow broke, causing some pain and bleeding (Janus & Janus, 1993). Many in Western society still believe to this day that having a hymen proves virginity, which is naive at best. In fact, the only way to physically determine if intercourse has taken place is to detect semen in a vaginal swab using chemical analysis or microscopic examination. This procedure must be performed within a few hours of intercourse, and in cases of rape it is sometimes used to prove that penetration of the penis into the vagina has taken place.

The rupture of the hymen during the first sexual intercourse can cause discomfort or pain and possibly some bleeding when the hymen ruptures. In different women, pain can vary from barely noticeable to severe. If a woman is concerned that her first intercourse is painless, she can expand the opening of the hymen in advance with the help of her fingers. The doctor may also remove the hymen or stretch its opening with increasing dilators. However, if your partner gently and carefully inserts an erect penis into the vagina, using adequate lubrication, there are usually no special problems. A woman can also guide her partner's penis by adjusting the speed and depth of penetration.

Female genital self-examination

After becoming familiar with the basics of their external anatomy, women are encouraged to examine their genitals monthly, looking for any unusual signs and symptoms. With the help of a mirror and under appropriate lighting, you should examine the condition of the skin under the pubic hair. Then you should pull back the skin of the foreskin of the clitoris and spread the labia minora, which will allow you to better examine the area around the openings of the vagina and urethra. Be alert for any unusual blisters, abrasions, or rashes. They may differ in redness or pallor, but sometimes they are easier to detect not visually, but by touch. Do not forget to also examine the inner surface of the labia majora and labia minora. It is also advisable, knowing what your vaginal discharge looks like in a normal state, to pay attention to any changes in their color, smell or consistency. Although certain abnormalities can usually occur during the menstrual cycle, some diseases cause well-marked changes in the vaginal discharge.

If you find any unusual swelling or discharge, you should immediately consult a gynecologist. Often, all these symptoms are completely harmless and do not require any treatment, but sometimes they signal the onset of an infectious process, when medical attention is needed. It's also important to tell your doctor about any pain or burning when urinating, bleeding between periods, pelvic pain, and any itchy rash around your vagina.

Uterus

The uterus is a hollow muscular organ in which the growth and nutrition of the fetus takes place until the very moment of childbirth. The walls of the uterus have different thicknesses in different places and consist of three layers: perimetrium, myometrium and endometrium. To the right and left of the uterus, there is one almond-shaped ovary. The two functions of the ovaries are the secretion of the hormones estrogen and progesterone and the production of eggs and their subsequent release from the ovary.

The cervix protrudes into the deepest part of the vagina. The uterus itself is a thick-walled muscular organ that provides a nutrient medium for the developing fetus during pregnancy. As a rule, it is pear-shaped, about 7-8 cm long and about 5-7 cm in diameter at the top, tapering to 2-3 cm in diameter in the part that protrudes into the vagina. During pregnancy, it gradually increases to a much larger size. When a woman is standing, her uterus is almost horizontal and at right angles to the vagina.

The two main parts of the uterus are the body and the cervix, connected by a narrower isthmus. The top of the wide part of the uterus is called its bottom. Although the cervix is ​​not particularly sensitive to superficial touch, it is able to feel pressure. The opening in the cervix is ​​called the os. The internal cavity of the uterus has a different width at different levels. The walls of the uterus consist of three layers: a thin outer shell - the perimetrium, a thick intermediate layer of muscle tissue - the myometrium and an inner layer rich in blood vessels and glands - the endometrium. It is the endometrium that plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and in the nutrition of the developing fetus.

Internal gynecological examination

The uterus, especially the cervix, is one of the common sites of cancer in women. Since uterine cancer can be asymptomatic for many years, it is especially dangerous. Women should periodically undergo an internal gynecological examination and have a Pap smear analyzed by a qualified gynecologist. There is disagreement among experts as to how often such an examination should be done, but most recommend doing it annually. Thanks to the Pap smear, it was possible to reduce mortality from cervical cancer by 70%. Approximately 5,000 women die in the US from this form of cancer every year, 80% of whom have not had a Pap test for the past 5 years or more.

During a gynecological examination, first of all, a vaginal speculum is carefully inserted into the vagina, which holds the vaginal walls in an expanded state. This allows a direct examination of the cervix. To take a Pap smear (named after its developer, Dr. Papanicolaou) from the cervix, using a thin spatula or swab on the rod, a certain number of cells are painlessly removed, while the vaginal mirror remains in place. A smear is prepared from the collected material, which is fixed, stained and examined under a microscope in search of any possible indications of changes in the structure of cells that may indicate the development of cancer or precancerous manifestations. In 1996, the Food and Drug Administration ( Food and Drug Administration) approved a new method for preparing the Papa smear, which eliminates the ingress of excess mucus and blood into it, which makes it difficult to detect altered cells. This made the test even more efficient and reliable than before. Recently, it has become possible to use another device that, when attached to the vaginal mirror, illuminates the cervix with light specially selected for the spectral composition. Under such illumination, normal and altered cells differ from each other in color. This greatly facilitates and speeds up the identification of suspicious areas of the cervix, which should be subjected to a more thorough examination.

After removing the mirror, a manual examination is performed. Using a rubber glove and lubricant, the doctor inserts two fingers into the vagina and presses them against the cervix. The other hand is placed on the abdomen. In this way, the doctor is able to feel the overall shape and size of the uterus and adjacent structures.

If suspicious cells are found in the Pap smear, more intensive diagnostic procedures are recommended. First of all, a biopsy can be used to determine the presence of malignant cells. If an increase in the number of altered cells is shown, another procedure called dilation and curettage (expansion and curettage) can be performed. The opening of the cervix expands, which allows you to enter a special tool - the uterine curette - into the internal cavity of the uterus. Some cells from the inner layer of the uterus are carefully scraped off and examined for the presence of malignant cells. As a rule, dilatation and curettage are used to clean the uterus from dead tissue after a miscarriage (involuntary abortion), and sometimes to terminate a pregnancy during an induced abortion.

Ovaries and fallopian tubes

On both sides of the uterus, two almond-shaped glands called ovaries are attached to it with the help of inguinal (pupart) ligaments. The two main functions of the ovaries are the secretion of female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone), and the production of eggs necessary for reproduction. Each ovary is approximately 2-3 cm long and weighs approximately 7 grams. A woman's ovary at birth contains tens of thousands of microscopic vesicles called follicles, each containing a cell that has the potential to develop into an egg. These cells are called oocytes. It is believed that only a few thousand follicles remain in the ovaries by the time of puberty, and only a small proportion (400 to 500) of them will ever turn into mature eggs.

In a mature woman, the surface of the ovary has an irregular shape and is covered with pits - traces left after the release of many eggs through the ovarian wall during the process of ovulation, described below. By examining the internal structure of the ovary, one can observe follicles at different stages of development. Two different zones are also distinguishable: the central medulla and thick outer layer, cortex. A pair of fallopian, or fallopian, tubes lead from the edge of each ovary to the top of the uterus. The end of each of the fallopian tubes, which opens next to the ovary, is covered with fringed outgrowths - fimbria, which are not attached to the ovary, but rather loosely fit it. Following the fimbria is the widest part of the tube - funnel. It leads into a narrow, irregularly shaped cavity stretching along the entire tube, which gradually narrows as it approaches the uterus.

The inner layer of the fallopian tube is covered with microscopic cilia. It is due to the movement of these cilia that the egg moves from the ovary to the uterus. For conception to occur, the sperm must meet and enter the egg while it is in one of the fallopian tubes. In this case, the already fertilized egg is transported further to the uterus, where it attaches to its wall and begins to develop into an embryo.

CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

Mariam Razak, was 15 when her family locked her in a room where five women held her as she struggled to break free while a sixth cut off her clitoris and labia.

This event left Mariam with the lingering feeling that she had been betrayed by the people she loved most: her parents and her boyfriend. Now, nine years later, she believes that this operation and the infection it caused have deprived her of not only the ability to have sexual satisfaction, but also the ability to have children.

It was love that led Mariam to this mutilation. She and her childhood friend, Idrissou Abdel Razak, say they had sex as teenagers and then he decided they should get married.

Without warning Mariam, he asked his father, Idrissa Ceiba, to apply to her family for permission to marry. His father offered a substantial dowry, and Mariam's parents gave their consent, while she herself was told nothing.

“My son and I asked her parents to circumcise her,” says Idrissu Ceibu. - Other girls, who were warned in advance, ran away. That is why we decided not to tell her what will be done.”

On the day scheduled for the operation, Mariam's boyfriend, a 17-year-old taxi driver, was working in Sokod, a town north of Kpalime. Today, he is ready to admit that he knew about the upcoming ceremony, but did not warn Mariam. Mariam herself now believes that together they could find a way to trick their parents into convincing them that she went through with the procedure, if only her boyfriend would support her.

When he returned, he learned that she had to be urgently taken to the hospital, as the bleeding did not stop. In the hospital, she developed an infection and stayed there for three weeks. But while, according to her, her body was recovering, the feeling of bitterness intensified.

And she decided not to marry a man who could not protect her. She borrowed $20 from a friend and took a cheap taxi to Nigeria, where she lived with friends. It took her parents nine months to find her and bring her home.

It took another six years for her boyfriend to win back her trust. He bought her clothes, shoes and jewelry as gifts. He told her that he loved her and begged for forgiveness. Eventually her anger softened and they married in 1994. Since then they have lived in his father's house.

But Mariam Razak knows what she has lost. She and her current husband made love in their youth, before she went through a mutilation operation, and, according to her, sex was very satisfying for her. Now, they both say, she feels nothing. She compares the permanent loss of sexual gratification to an incurable disease that stays with you until death.

“When he goes into the city, he buys drugs, which he gives me before we have sex, so that I feel pleasure. But it's not the same,” says Mariam.

Her husband agrees: “Now that she is circumcised, something is missing in this place. She doesn't feel anything there. I try to please her, but it doesn't work very well."

And their sorrows do not end there. They are also unable to conceive a child. They turned to doctors and traditional healers - all to no avail.

Idrissou Abdel Razak promises that he will not take another wife for himself, even if Mariam does not become pregnant: “I have loved Mariam since we were children. We will continue to look for a way out."

And if they ever have daughters, he promises to send them out of the country to protect them from cutting off their genitals. Source : S. Dugger. The New York Times METRO, 11 September 1996

Female genital mutilation

In different cultures and in different historical periods, the clitoris and labia were subjected to various kinds of surgical operations, as a result of which women were mutilated. Based on the widespread fear of masturbation during the mid- XIX century and until about 1935, doctors in Europe and the United States often circumcised women, that is, removed, partially or completely, the clitoris - a surgical procedure called clitoridectomy. These measures were thought to "cure" masturbation and prevent insanity. In some African and East Asian cultures and religions, clitoridectomy, sometimes incorrectly referred to as "female circumcision," is still practiced as part of the rites that accompany the transition to adulthood. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 120 million women worldwide have undergone some form of what is today called female genital mutilation. Until recently, almost all girls in countries such as Egypt, Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan underwent this operation. Although it can sometimes take the form of a traditional circumcision, in which the tissue covering the clitoris is removed, more often the head of the clitoris is also removed. Sometimes an even more extensive clitoridectomy is performed, which includes the removal of the entire clitoris and a significant amount of surrounding labia tissue. As a rite of passage marking a girl's transition to adulthood, clitoridectomy means the removal of all traces of "masculine features": since the clitoris is traditionally viewed in these cultures as a miniature penis, its absence is recognized as the highest symbol of femininity. But, in addition, clitoridectomy also reduces a woman's sexual satisfaction, which is important in cultures where a man is considered obliged to control a woman's sexuality. Various taboos are established to support this practice. In Nigeria, for example, some women believe that if the baby's head touches the clitoris during childbirth, the baby will develop a mental disorder ( Ecker, 1994). In a number of cultures, there is also the custom of infibulation, in which the labia minora and sometimes the labia majora are removed and the edges of the outer part of the vagina are sewn or held together with plant spines or natural adhesives, thus ensuring that the woman does not have sexual intercourse before marriage. The bonding material is removed before marriage, although the procedure may be repeated if the husband is going to be away for a long time. This often results in coarse scar tissue that can make urination, menstruation, intercourse, and childbirth more difficult and painful. Infibulation is common in cultures where virginity is highly valued at marriage. When women who have undergone this operation are chosen as brides, they bring significant benefits to their family in the form of money, property and livestock (Eskeg, 1994).

These rites are often performed with crude instruments and without anesthesia. Girls and women undergoing such procedures often become infected with serious illnesses, and the use of non-sterile instruments can lead to AIDS. Girls sometimes die as a result of bleeding or infection caused by this operation. In addition, evidence is accumulating that such ritual surgery can cause severe psychological trauma, with long-term effects on women's sexuality, marriage and childbearing (Lightfoot-Klein, 1989; MacFarquhar, 1996). The influence of civilization has brought some improvements to the traditional practice, so that in some places today aseptic methods are already used to reduce the risk of infection. For some time, the Egyptian health authorities have encouraged this operation to be carried out in medical institutions to avoid possible complications, while at the same time providing family counseling to end this custom. In 1996, the Egyptian Ministry of Health decided to ban all medical professionals from both public and private clinics from performing any type of female genital mutilation. However, it is believed that many families will continue to turn to local medicine men to fulfill these ancient prescriptions.

There is growing condemnation of the practice, which is seen by some groups as barbaric and sexist. In the United States, this issue has come under closer scrutiny as it is now becoming clear that some immigrant girls from over 40 countries may have been subjected to a similar procedure in the United States. A woman named Fauzia Kasinga fled the African country of Togo in 1994 to avoid mutilation and eventually arrived in the States illegally. She applied for asylum, but the immigration judge initially dismissed her arguments as unconvincing. After she spent over one year in prison, the Board of Immigration Appeals ruled in 1996 that female genital mutilation did indeed constitute an act of persecution and was a legitimate basis for granting women asylum (Dugger , 1996). Although such practices are sometimes seen as a cultural imperative that should be respected, this court ruling and other developments in developed countries underline the idea that such operations constitute a violation of human rights that must be condemned and stopped ( Rosenthal, 1996).

Female genital mutilation often has deep roots in the way of life of the representatives of this or that culture, reflecting the patriarchal tradition, in which the woman is considered the property of the man, and female sexuality is subordinated to the male. This custom can be regarded as a fundamental component of the initiation rites, symbolizing the girl's acquisition of the status of an adult woman, and therefore serve as a source of pride. But with increasing attention to human rights around the world, including in developing countries, opposition to such practices is growing. There is fierce debate in countries where these procedures continue to apply. Younger and more Westernized women—often with the support of their husbands—are calling for a more symbolic initiation rite that would preserve the positive cultural value of the traditional ritual but avoid painful and dangerous surgery. Feminists in the Western world are especially eloquent about this issue, arguing that such procedures are not only dangerous to health, but also an attempt to emphasize the dependent position of a woman. Such disputes are a classic example of the clash between culture-specific customs and globally changing views on sexuality and gender issues.

Definitions

CLITOR - an organ sensitive to sexual stimulation, located in the upper part of the vulva; fills with blood during sexual arousal.

CLITOR HEAD - the outer, sensitive part of the clitoris, located at the upper fusion of the labia minora.

CLITOR BODY - an elongated part of the clitoris containing tissue that can fill with blood.

VULVA - external female genital organs, including the pubis, large and small labia, clitoris and vaginal opening.

PUBIS - an elevation formed by adipose tissue and located above the pubic bone of a woman.

LARGE LIPS - two outer folds of skin covering the labia minora, clitoris and openings of the urethra and vagina.

LABIA SMALL - two folds of skin within the space bounded by large lips, connecting above the clitoris and located on the sides of the openings of the urethra and vagina.

FORESKIN - in women, a tissue in the upper part of the vulva that covers the body of the clitoris.

BARTHOLINIAN GLANDS - small glands, the secret of which is secreted during sexual arousal through the excretory ducts that open at the base of the labia minora.

URINARY OPENING - opening through which urine is expelled from the body.

VAGINA ENTRY - external opening of the vagina.

VIRGIN HYLEVA - connective tissue membrane, which can partially close the entrance to the vagina.

SMEGMA A thick, oily substance that can accumulate under the foreskin of the clitoris or penis.

CIRCUMCISION - in women - a surgical operation that exposes the body of the clitoris, in which its foreskin is cut.

INFIBULATION A surgical procedure used in some cultures in which the edges of the vaginal opening are held together.

CLITORODECTOMY - surgical removal of the clitoris, a common procedure in some cultures.

VAGINISM - involuntary spasm of the muscles located at the entrance to the vagina, making it difficult or impossible to penetrate it.

PUNOCOPHIC MUSCLE - part of the muscles supporting the vagina, is involved in the formation of an orgasm in women; women are able to control his tone to some extent.

VAGINA - a muscular channel in a woman's body that is susceptible to sexual arousal and into which sperm must enter during intercourse in order for conception to occur.

UTERUS - a muscular organ in the female reproductive system in which a fertilized egg is implanted.

CERVIX - the narrower part of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina.

ISTHHUM - narrowing of the uterus directly above its neck.

BOTTOM (UTERUS) - wide upper part of the uterus.

ZEV - an opening in the cervix leading to the uterine cavity.

PERIMETRIES - outer layer of the uterus.

MYOMETRIUM - middle, muscular layer of the uterus.

ENDOMETRIUM - the inner layer of the uterus lining its cavity.

STROKE PAPA - microscopic examination of a preparation of cells taken by scraping from the surface of the cervix, carried out in order to detect any cellular abnormalities.

OVERS - a pair of female sex glands (gonads) located in the abdominal cavity and producing eggs and female sex hormones.

EGG - female sex cell, formed in the ovary; fertilized by sperm.

FOLLICLE - a conglomerate of cells surrounding a maturing egg.

OOCYTES - cells are the precursors of the oocyte.

FALLOPIAN TUBES - structures associated with the uterus, through which the eggs are transferred from the ovaries to the uterine cavity.

Some 15 years ago, the word "vagina" caused bewilderment and even indignation among mankind. Many girls, still wanting to know how the vagina works, were embarrassed to raise this issue so as not to seem ignorant. There has always been interest in the body of a woman, and at the moment this topic is relevant and is discussed quite often.

It's no secret that in educational institutions today the female vagina is taught in the classroom, including.

Female How is the vagina arranged?

The reproductive system of women is divided into two types:

• external organs;
• internal.

What goes to the external organs

To study how a woman's vagina works, you need to consider the structure of the entire reproductive system.

The organs of the external system are represented by:

• pubis;
• large and small labia;
• clitoris;
• vestibule of the vagina;
• bartholin's glands.

Pubis

The pubis of a girl is called the lower region of the anterior abdominal wall, which rises due to the subcutaneous fat layer. This area is characterized by the presence of a pronounced hairline, the color is darker than the hair on other parts of the body. Outwardly, it resembles a triangle, in which the upper border is outlined and the top is directed downward. In the pubic area are the labia, which have skin folds on both sides, in the middle there is a genital gap with the vestibule of the vagina.

Small and large labia - what are these organs?

The labia majora can be described as skin folds where fatty tissue is located. The skin of this organ is endowed with many sweat and sebaceous glands, and during puberty, hair appears on it. In the lower part of the large lips there are Bartholin's glands. During the period when there is no sexual stimulation, the lips are in a closed position, creating protection from damage to the urethra and the entrance to the vagina.

The small lips are located between the large ones, outwardly these are two skin folds of a pinkish tint. You can also find another name - the organ of the sexual senses, since they contain many vessels, nerve endings and sebaceous glands. Small lips are connected over the clitoris, and a fold of skin is formed - the foreskin. During arousal, the organ becomes elastic due to saturation with blood, as a result of which the entrance to the vagina narrows, which improves the sensations during intercourse.

Clitoris

The clitoris is considered the most unique system of a woman, it is located at the upper base of the small lips. The appearance and size of the organ may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the woman. Basically, the length varies within 4 mm, less often 10 mm or more. The function of the organ is to concentrate and accumulate sexual feelings; in an excited state, its length increases.

Vaginal vestibule

This organ is a slit-like region, which is bounded in front by the clitoris, on the sides - by small lips, behind - by the posterior commissure of the labia, and is covered from above by the hymen. Between the clitoris and the entrance to the vagina is the external opening of the urinary canal, which opens in the vestibule. This organ fills with blood during sexual arousal and forms a "cuff" that develops and opens the entrance to the vagina.

bartholin glands

The location of the glands - at the base and in the depths of the large lips, have a size of the order of 15-20 mm. In an excited state and during sexual contact, they contribute to the release of lubricant - a viscous grayish liquid rich in protein.

internal reproductive organ system

To understand how the female vagina works, you need to consider the internal genital organs as a whole and individually, this will give a clear picture of the structure of the organs.

Internal organs include:

• vagina;
• ovaries;
• fallopian tubes;
• uterus
• cervix;
• virgin hymen.

The vagina is an important organ

The vagina is an organ that takes part in sexual contact, and also plays an important role in the birth of a child, since it is a component of the birth canal. On average, the size of the female vagina is 8 cm, but it can be smaller (up to 6 cm) and more - up to 10-12 cm. The vagina has a mucous membrane inside with folds that allow it to stretch.

The device of the female vagina is made in such a way as to protect the body from all sorts of harmful effects. The walls of the vagina consist of three soft layers, the total thickness of which is about 4 mm, and each of them performs its own functions.

• The inner layer is the mucous membrane.

It consists of a huge number of folds, thanks to which the vagina can change its size.

• The middle layer is smooth muscle.

Muscular longitudinal and transverse bundles are present in both the upper and lower parts of the vagina, but the latter are more durable. The lower bundles are included in the muscles that regulate the work of the perineum.

• The outer layer is adventitia.

This is a connective tissue, which is represented by elastic fibers and muscles. The function of adventitia is the union of the vagina and other organs that are not part of the reproductive system.

Functions of the vagina:

• Sexual.

This is the main function of the vagina, since it is directly involved in the conception of children. During unprotected intercourse, a man's sperm enters the cervix through the vagina. This allows the sperm to reach the tube and fertilize the egg.

• generic

The walls of the vagina, when connected to the cervix, form the birth canal, since during contractions the fetus passes through it. During pregnancy, under the action of hormones, the tissues of the walls become more elastic, which allows you to change the size of the female vagina and stretch it to such a size that the fetus can come out freely.

• Protective.

This is a very important function for the female body, since the vagina acts as a barrier due to its structure. With the help of the walls of the vagina, the body self-purifies, preventing the ingress of microorganisms.

• Output.

With the help of the vagina, discharge is removed as a result of the working capacity of the woman's body. As a rule, these are menstruation and clear or whitish discharge.

In order for the microflora of the vagina to be healthy, it must be constantly moist. This is ensured by the internal walls, in which there are glands that secrete mucus. Allocations not only protect the body from the development of diseases, but also contribute to the painless course of sexual intercourse.

However, it is worth paying attention to the abundance of mucus secretions, it should not be excessive. Otherwise, you need to see a doctor.

Every girl should know how the vagina works, because this organ performs important functions.

ovaries

It contains about a million eggs, where the formation of the hormones estrogen and progesterone takes place. In this organ, there is a change in the level of hormones and their release by the pituitary gland, due to which the eggs mature and exit the glands. This process is called ovulation and repeats again after about 28 days. Close to each ovary is the fallopian tube.

What are fallopian tubes?

This organ is represented by two hollow tubes with holes that go from the ovaries to the uterus. At the ends of the tubes are villi, which, as the egg is released from the ovaries, help to capture it and direct it into the tube so that it enters the uterus.

Uterus

It is represented by a hollow pear-shaped organ located in the pelvic cavity. The uterine walls are layers of muscles, due to which, during pregnancy, the uterus changes size along with the fetus. During labor pains, the muscles begin to contract, and the cervix stretches and opens, and then the fetal egg passes into the birth canal.

This is a rather interesting question, how the vagina is arranged, because knowing the structure and functions of a woman, one can clearly understand how the conception of a child begins, how it grows and is born.

Cervix

This organ is the lower part of the uterus with a passage that directly connects the uterus itself and the vagina. When the moment of childbirth comes, the walls of the cervix become thinner, the pharynx increases and becomes an opening with a diameter of 10 cm, during this period the fetus is possible to exit.

Hymen

Another name is hymen. The hymen is represented by a thin fold of mucous, which is located at the entrance to the vagina. Each girl has her own individual characteristics of the hymen. It has several holes through which blood is released during menstruation.

It breaks at the first sexual contact, this process is called defloration. This may cause pain and bleeding. At a young age, the gap is less painful, this is due to the fact that after 22 years the hymen loses its elasticity. In some cases, the hymen remains intact if it is too elastic, then the first sexual experience does not bring any discomfort. Hymen collapses completely only after childbirth.

The structure of the vagina of a virgin and a woman from the inside is not much different. As a rule, the differences are just in the presence or absence of the hymen.

It is generally accepted that the absence of a hymen indicates the presence of a sexual life in a girl, but this is not direct evidence. The film can be damaged as a result of heavy physical exercise, as well as during masturbation.

The structure of the entire human body is a whole science that captivates more and more people every year. Mankind is interested not only in information about how the vagina is arranged, but also in other organs, because there are a lot of them in our body, and each of them is vital.

The female reproductive organs are usually divided into external and internal. The external genital organs include: pubis, labia majora and labia minora, clitoris, hymen and perineum. The pubic region, or pubis, rising above the pubic articulation of the pelvic bones, is covered with hair.

Large labia, having a roller-like appearance, go down from the pubis towards the external opening of the anus. At the bottom they form a posterior commissure, and at the top they merge with the skin of the pubis. Inside the labia majora in the form of thinner skin folds are the labia minora.

In the thickness of the labia majora are Bartholin glands, the size of which is less than a pea. Their point outlet openings are located on the inner surface of the labia majora at the point of their confluence with the small ones. These glands during sexual intercourse secrete a secret that moisturizes the entrance to the vagina.

Ahead, between the labia minora, below the pubis, is the clitoris, which is an organ like the male penis. The clitoris has a large number of blood vessels, which during sexual intercourse overflow with blood, causing it to increase in size. In the region of the clitoris and labia minora, the skin is very sensitive, as it is penetrated by many nerve endings. Below the frenulum of the clitoris is the external opening of the urethra, which is much shorter and wider than in men.

Behind the confluence of the labia majora is the perineum. A little posterior to it is the anus. The state of the perineum (its height, elasticity, integrity) is of no small importance for the position of the internal genital organs.

In women who have not lived sexually, the entrance to the vagina is closed by a membrane of the mucous membrane, called the hymen. The hymen has one or more holes in the middle. During the first sexual intercourse, it is almost always torn, and during childbirth, to one degree or another, it is destroyed. When the hymen ruptures, depending on its thickness and the location of the vessels, there is usually a rapidly stopping bleeding.

Behind the hymen in the pelvic cavity are the internal genital organs of a woman: the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

The vagina is an elastic tube 10-12 cm long with walls adjacent to each other. Its inner surface is covered with a mucous membrane with a large number of folds. The vagina reaches the external opening of the cervix, forming depressions around it, called vaults. The posterior fornix is ​​usually somewhat deeper, and this has a special physiological purpose, since after sexual intercourse the seminal fluid forms in the region of the posterior fornix, as it were, a seminal lake, where the cervix faces in the normal arrangement of the internal genital organs. This contributes to a better penetration of the male seminal thread into the cervix, which improves the conditions for conception.

The vagina is, as it were, the excretory duct of the uterus. Through it, menstrual blood is released, and the fetus is born through it.

In a healthy woman, a small amount of milky content is always present in the vagina. Under a microscope, in a smear from a vaginal discharge, you can see a large number of desquamated cells of the vaginal wall and a significant number of microbes that look like sticks. These microbes are safe and even perform a certain protective function, producing lactic acid, which prevents the development of other types of microbes that can cause genital disease.

The uterus resembles in its shape and size a small pear. Its length is 7-8 cm, width - 4-6 cm, thickness - 2-3 cm. In the uterus, the body and neck are distinguished. The neck is called its lower part, which is, as it were, inserted into the vagina.

In the thickness of the uterus there is a narrow channel connecting the uterine cavity with the vagina through the internal external pharynx. The cervical canal is lined with a mucous membrane, equipped with a large number of tubular glands. These glands secrete a small amount of thick mucus, which, filling the cervical canal throughout its length, forms the so-called cervical plug. This plug prevents the penetration of germs from the vagina into the uterus.

The body of the uterus has a triangular cavity. It is lined with a mucous membrane of a special structure, which, under the influence of the ovaries, undergoes periodic cyclic changes. These changes externally manifest themselves and end in the form of menstruation. A fertilized egg is usually introduced into the uterine mucosa, where it further develops and matures.

Most of the uterus is located in the abdominal cavity and is covered with a peritoneum that also extends to the tubes, ovaries and neighboring organs. Anterior to the uterus and vagina is the bladder, and posterior to the rectum. Consequently, the uterus is located in the center of the small pelvis and is usually turned with its bottom part anteriorly: This location is determined by the uterine ligaments, pelvic floor muscles (perineum) and neighboring organs. Overflow of the bladder or rectum causes displacement of the uterus, respectively backwards or anteriorly.

The fallopian tubes depart from the upper body of the uterus and go to the side walls of the small pelvis. The lumen of the tubes located in the thickness of the uterus is so narrow that only a bristle can pass through. Closer to the ovaries, the tubes expand in the form of a funnel and end with fringes. The entire lumen of the tube is lined with a mucous membrane that has many folds and is covered with ciliated cilia. Thanks to the movement of these cilia and the contraction of the muscular wall, the egg cell that has left the ovary moves from the ventral end of the tube to the uterus. Usually, in the tube, the egg cell merges with the male seminal thread - the spermatozoon.

Female internal genital organs (diagram): 1 - mature egg; 2 - fertilized egg; 3 - different stages of development of a fertilized egg; 4 - uterus; 5 - pipes; 6 - ovary; 7 - cervix; 8 - a fertilized egg attached to the uterine mucosa

Tubes connect the abdominal cavity through the uterus and vagina to the external environment. A healthy woman with normal genital function has a number of protective barriers that prevent the ascent and penetration of microbes into the abdominal cavity.

These protective barriers are: the composition of the vaginal mucus, which prevents the growth of foreign microorganisms; cervical plug that protects against germs; monthly sloughing of the mucous wall of the uterus, which takes out with it the microorganisms nesting in it; the angle of the fallopian tube, preventing the passage of germs from the uterus into the tube.

The functions of these protective barriers are usually violated during menstruation, during abortion and after childbirth. In these cases, if the hygienic regime is violated, the microbes overcome the protective barriers of the body and enter the pipe. The tube, in turn, also has a protective device that prevents the passage of microorganisms into the abdominal cavity. The role of such a device is performed by the fringed end of the tube, which, reacting to the attack of microbes, sticks together, thus preventing their penetration into the abdominal cavity. If microbes take this last barrier on their way into the body, such a serious disease as inflammation of the pelvic peritoneum can occur. However, while performing this protective function, the tube loses its patency for the egg, and then infertility occurs.

An important part of the female genital organs are the ovaries. There are two of them, like the fallopian tubes. They are located on both sides of the uterus, somewhat posterior to it. The length of the ovary is usually 3-4 cm, the thickness is about 2 cm. With the help of a special ligament, the ovary is attached to the uterus slightly below the fringed end of the tube. Through another ligament, it is attached to the pelvic wall. Features of the structure of the ovaries are clearly visible when examining them under a microscope. The ovary consists of two layers: the superficial, the so-called cortical layer, and a deeper one - the brain.

The medulla contains many blood vessels and nerves. In the cortical part, germ (egg) cells are laid - the largest cells of the human body. At the birth of a girl, there are up to 400-500 thousand of them, and by the beginning of puberty there are many times less. Most of the eggs are resorbed, i.e., undergo reverse development (atresia) before puberty.

By the time the girl reaches puberty, the egg cell begins to grow, turn into special vesicles called follicles, which, depending on the degree of maturity, can be of various sizes: large and small. During the maturation of the egg cell, the follicle also secretes the female sex hormone - folliculin.

As the vesicle fills and the follicle matures, the latter moves to the surface of the ovary and usually reaches the size of a lentil. Its walls are thinning and torn. The released egg then enters the abdominal cavity or into the tube.

The whole process of maturation of the follicle and the release of the egg cell is called ovulation. It usually occurs in the middle between two periods. It has been established that during a four-week menstrual cycle, the egg cell is released on the 14-16th day, counting from the first day of the last menstruation.

The period of ovulation is the most favorable for pregnancy.

In place of the burst bubble after the release of the egg cell, the so-called corpus luteum develops. It happens like this: a small amount of blood is poured into the resulting cavity after the rupture of the follicle. The cells covering the inner surface of the cavity begin to multiply rapidly, filling it. A substance similar to yellow fat is deposited in them, hence the name itself - the corpus luteum.

The full development of the corpus luteum occurs on the 13-14th day after ovulation, that is, before menstruation. In size, it usually reaches the size of a large pea. The corpus luteum at the time of growth and development, like the follicle, releases a hormone, lutein, into the blood. Thus, the follicle and the yellow case secrete hormones that enter the bloodstream directly and cause changes in the woman's body that distinguish her from the man. These hormones - folliculin and lutein, influencing the entire body, prepare the uterine mucosa for the perception of a fertilized egg. If conception does not occur at this time, then the corpus luteum dies and undergoes reverse development - scarring. This is accompanied by rejection of the uterine mucosa and the onset of menstruation. Menstruation is, according to the well-known medical expression, "the bloody tears of the uterus about a failed pregnancy."

After 14-16 days, a new corpus luteum is formed from another bursting follicle. Such a cyclical process in the ovary usually repeats monthly, from puberty to the transitional age of women. In a healthy woman, menstruation stops only during pregnancy and lactation. In women deprived of ovaries, menstruation and pregnancy do not occur. Consequently, the ovary causes changes that occur both in the whole body of a woman and in the uterus. Changes in the ovaries themselves (maturation of the follicles and corpus luteum) occur under the influence of hormones from the brain appendage - the pituitary gland.

In addition to the pituitary gland and ovaries, a number of other endocrine glands take part in the overall development of the woman's body: the thyroid gland, pancreas, adrenal gland, and others. All these glands secrete hormones into the blood. They are mutually interconnected and regulate each other's functions through the nervous system.

In Central Asian girls, menstruation occurs, as a rule, at the age of 13-15. However, it has been noted that in recent years the first menstruation appears somewhat earlier. This is explained by the improvement in hygienic living conditions and the widespread use of sports among girls.

The appearance of menstruation does not yet mean the onset of puberty, because the girl's body takes shape gradually and matures only by the age of 18 and 20, although in some cases the girl may take shape a little earlier. Due to the characteristics of the body of each woman, menstruation can be in different cycles. Most often they appear after 28 days, but they can also come after 21, 24 and even 30 days, usually lasting three to five days. One way or another, the established cycle of menstruation is characteristic of this woman, and changes in this cycle indicate, as a rule, a disease of the reproductive apparatus. This usually happens after an abortion, complicated childbirth or other diseases of the genital organs. In such cases, it is necessary to consult a doctor to find out the causes of such deviations and, if necessary, start treatment.

During menstruation, each woman loses from 50 to 100-150 ml of blood. Menstrual blood usually consists of scraps of tissue, sloughing of the uterine mucosa and blood flowing from exposed small vessels. Menstrual blood usually does not clot because cells in the lining of the uterus produce a special enzyme that prevents blood from clotting.

Thus, according to the rhythm and duration of menstruation, according to the amount of blood lost, one can to some extent judge the activity of the reproductive apparatus. Therefore, every woman should have a menstrual calendar that reflects the menstrual function throughout the year. The calendar can determine whether a woman has deviations from the normal course of menstruation, and therefore, whether there is a need for a medical examination, which will help to identify the disease at an early stage or, perhaps, even prevent it. All the more necessary is the calendar accounting of menstruation for a woman who lives a sexual life, because it will also help to identify her pregnancy in a timely manner.

With normal menstruation, women can usually do their usual work, avoiding only strong physical exertion. Some, before menstruation, feel general malaise, weakness, weakness, pain in the lower abdomen, in the region of the sacrum.

Summarizing all that has been said, I would like to give our readers a few tips:

at the slightest violation of the functions of the sexual apparatus, consult a doctor;

once or twice a month, in the morning on an empty stomach, feel your stomach to find out if there are any seals or tumor formations in the abdominal cavity.

If every woman, having studied the normal processes of her body, especially the reproductive apparatus, turned to doctors about the observed violations of its functions, then the doctor, in search of the cause of these violations, could timely establish the disease and prevent its development. For, we have not said, it is easier to prevent a disease than to treat it.

R. S. Amanjolov