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The '''vagina''', (from [[Latin]], literally "sheath" or "scabbard" ) is the cylinder tubular tract leading from the [[uterus]] to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the [[cloaca]] in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other [[invertebrate]]s also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the [[oviduct]].  The Latinate plural (rarely used in English) is vaginae.  
The '''vagina''', (from [[Latin]], literally "sheath" or "scabbard" ) is the [[cylinder tubular tract leading from the [[uterus]] to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the [[cloaca]] in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other [[invertebrate]]s also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the [[oviduct]].  The Latinate plural (rarely used in English) is vaginae.  


In common speech, the term "vagina" is often used inaccurately to refer to the [[vulva]] or female genitals generally; strictly speaking, the vagina is a specific internal structure and the vulva is the exterior genitalia only.
In common speech, the term "vagina" is often used inaccurately to refer to the [[vulva]] or female genitals generally; strictly speaking, the vagina is a specific internal structure and the vulva is the exterior genitalia only.


==Human anatomy==
==Human anatomy==
[[Image:Vagina-anatomy-labelled1.jpg|left|thumb|230px|A human vulva with the anatomical parts labeled.]]
The [[human]] vagina is an elastic muscular canal that extends from the [[cervix]] to the [[vulva]].<ref name=WomanHealthGov> http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina] ''Womenshealth.gov'' </ref> Although there is wide anatomical variation the average vagina is 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) in length; its elasticity allows it to stretch during [[sexual intercourse]] and during [[birth]] to offspring.<ref>[http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5951 http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5951] ''Medterms.com'' </ref><ref>[http://www.metrokc.gov/HEALTH/famplan/flash/grades11-12/G1112-L17.pdf http://www.metrokc.gov/HEALTH/famplan/flash/grades11-12/G1112-L17.pdf] ''Metrokc.gov'' </ref> The vagina connects the superficial vulva to the cervix of the deep [[uterus]].
[[Image:Skenes gland.jpg|left|thumb|230px|An image that shows the [[introitus]] (the opening of the vagina) in relation to its surrounding structures, when the labia are displaced by [[finger|digits]] during a [[pelvic examination]].]]
The [[human]] vagina is an elastic muscular canal that extends from the [[cervix]] to the [[vulva]].<ref>[http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina] ''Womenshealth.gov'' </ref> Although there is wide anatomical variation the average vagina is 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) in length; its elasticity allows it to stretch during [[sexual intercourse]] and during [[birth]] to offspring.<ref>[http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5951 http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5951] ''Medterms.com'' </ref><ref>[http://www.metrokc.gov/HEALTH/famplan/flash/grades11-12/G1112-L17.pdf http://www.metrokc.gov/HEALTH/famplan/flash/grades11-12/G1112-L17.pdf] ''Metrokc.gov'' </ref> The vagina connects the superficial vulva to the cervix of the deep [[uterus]].


If the woman stands upright, the vaginal tube points in an upward-backward direction and forms an angle of slightly more than 45 degrees with the uterus. The vaginal opening is at the [[caudal]] end of the vulva, behind the opening of the [[urethra]]. Above the vagina is Mons Veneris. The vagina, along with the inside of the vulva, is reddish pink in color, as with most healthy internal mucous membranes in mammals.
If the woman stands upright, the vaginal tube points in an upward-backward direction and forms an angle of slightly more than 45 degrees with the uterus. The vaginal opening is at the [[caudal]] end of the vulva, behind the opening of the [[urethra]]. Above the vagina is Mons Veneris. The vagina, along with the inside of the vulva, is reddish pink in color, as with most healthy internal mucous membranes in mammals.


[[Vaginal lubrication]] is provided by the [[Bartholin's gland]]s near the vaginal opening and the cervix. The membrane of the vaginal wall also produces moisture, although it does not contain any glands. Before and during [[ovulation]], the [[cervix]] produces cervical [[mucus]], which provides a favorable environment for [[sperm]] to survive.   
[[Vaginal lubrication]] is provided by the [[Bartholin's gland]]s near the vaginal opening and the cervix. The membrane of the vaginal wall also produces moisture, although it does not contain any glands. Before and during [[ovulation]], the [[cervix]] produces cervical [[mucus]], which provides a favorable environment for [[sperm]] to survive.   


The [[hymen]] is a [[mucous membrane|membrane]] which is situated at the opening of the vagina. As with many female animals, the hymen covers the opening of the vagina from birth until it is ruptured during activity. The hymen may rupture during sexual or non-sexual activity.  Vaginal penetration with the fingers, a dildo or penis, may rupture the hymen. A [[pelvic examination]], injury, or certain types of exercises, such as horseback riding or gymnastics may also rupture the hymen.  Sexual intercourse does not always rupture the hymen.  Therefore, the presence or absence of a hymen does not indicate virginity or prior sexual activity.
The [[hymen]] is a [[mucous membrane|membrane]] which is situated at the opening of the vagina. As with many female animals, the hymen covers the opening of the vagina from birth until it is ruptured during activity. The hymen may rupture during sexual or non-sexual activity; the presence or absence of a hymen does not indicate prior sexual activity.


==Biological functions of the vagina==
==Biological functions of the vagina==
The vagina has several biological functions.
The vagina has several biological functions.
===Menstruation===
===Menstruation===
The vagina provides a path for [[menstruation|menstrual]] [[blood]] and tissue to leave the body. In modern societies, [[tampon]]s, [[menstrual cup]]s and sanitary towels may be used to absorb or capture these fluids.
The vagina provides a path for [[menstruation|menstrual]] [[blood]] and tissue to leave the body. In modern societies, [[tampon]]s, [[menstrual cup]]s, and sanitary towels may be used to absorb or capture these fluids.


===Sexual activity===
===Sexual activity===
The concentration of the nerve endings that lie close to the entrance of a woman's vagina can provide pleasurable sensation during sexual activity, when stimulated in a way that the particular woman enjoys. During [[sexual arousal]] and particularly stimulation of the [[clitoris]], the walls of the vagina self-[[lubrication|lubricate]], reducing friction during [[sexual activity]].   
The concentration of the nerve endings that lie close to the entrance of a woman's vagina can provide pleasurable sensation during sexual activity, when stimulated in a way that the particular woman enjoys. During [[sexual arousal]] and particularly stimulation of the [[clitoris]], the walls of the vagina self-lubricate, reducing friction during [[sexual activity]].   


An [[erogenous zone]] referred to commonly as the ''[[G-spot]]'' is located at the anterior wall of the vagina, about five centimeters in from the entrance.  Some women experience intense pleasure if the [[G-spot]] is stimulated appropriately during sexual activity. A G-Spot [[orgasm]] may be responsible for [[female ejaculation]], leading some doctors and researchers to believe that G-spot pleasure comes from the [[Skene's glands]], a female homologue of the [[prostate]], rather than any particular spot on the vaginal wall.<ref>{{cite book |last=Crooks |first=R |coauthors=Baur, K |title=Our Sexuality |origyear=1999 |publisher= Brooks/Cole |location=California}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | author = Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A | title = Sexological approach to ejaculatory dysfunction. | journal = Int J Androl | volume = 25 | issue = 6 | pages = 317-23 | year = 2002 | id = PMID 12406363}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | author = Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A | title = Disorders of ejaculation. | journal = J Endocrinol Invest | volume = 25 | issue = 11 | pages = 1006-19 | year = 2002 | id = PMID 12553564}}</ref> Some researchers deny the existence of the G-spot.<ref name=Hines> {{cite journal |author =Hines, T |year =2001 |month =August |title =The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth |journal =Am J Obstet Gynecol |volume =185 |issue =2 |pages =359-62}}</ref>
An [[erogenous zone]] referred to commonly as the ''[[G-spot]]'' is located at the anterior wall of the vagina, about five centimeters in from the entrance.  Some women experience intense pleasure if the [[G-spot]] is stimulated appropriately during sexual activity. A G-Spot [[orgasm]] may be responsible for [[female ejaculation]], leading some doctors and researchers to believe that G-spot pleasure comes from the [[Skene's glands]], a female homologue of the [[prostate]], rather than any particular spot on the vaginal wall.<ref>{{cite book |last=Crooks |first=R |coauthors=Baur, K |title=Our Sexuality |origyear=1999 |publisher= Brooks/Cole |location=California}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | author = Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A | title = Sexological approach to ejaculatory dysfunction. | journal = Int J Androl | volume = 25 | issue = 6 | pages = 317-23 | year = 2002 | id = PMID 12406363}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal | author = Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A | title = Disorders of ejaculation. | journal = J Endocrinol Invest | volume = 25 | issue = 11 | pages = 1006-19 | year = 2002 | id = PMID 12553564}}</ref> Some researchers deny the existence of the G-spot.<ref name=Hines> {{cite journal |author =Hines, T |year =2001 |month =August |title =The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth |journal =Am J Obstet Gynecol |volume =185 |issue =2 |pages =359-62}}</ref>


===Childbirth===
===Childbirth===
Line 52: Line 47:


==Sexual health and hygiene==
==Sexual health and hygiene==
{{main|vulvovaginal health}}
{{main|Vulvovaginal health}}
The vagina is self-cleansing and therefore usually needs no special treatment.  Doctors generally discourage the practice of [[douche|douching]]. Since a healthy vagina is colonized by a mutually [[symbiotic]] flora of microorganisms that protect its host from disease-causing microbes, any attempt to upset this balance may cause many undesirable outcomes, including but not limited to abnormal discharge and [[yeast infection]]. The acidity of a healthy vagina due to [[lactic acid]] secreted by symbiotic microorganisms retards the growth of many strains of dangerous microbes.  
The vagina is self-cleansing and therefore usually needs no special treatment. Since a healthy vagina is colonized by a mutually [[symbiotic]] flora of microorganisms that protect its host from disease-causing microbes, any attempt to upset this balance may cause many undesirable outcomes, including abnormal discharge and [[yeast infection]]. The acidity of a healthy vagina due to [[lactic acid]] secreted by symbiotic microorganisms retards the growth of many strains of dangerous microbes.  


The vagina is examined during [[Gynecology|gynecological]] exams, often using a [[speculum (medical)|speculum]], which holds the vagina open for visual inspection of the cervix or taking of samples (see [[pap smear]]).
The vagina is examined during [[Gynecology|gynecological]] exams, often using a [[speculum (medical)|speculum]], which holds the vagina open for visual inspection of the cervix or taking of samples (see [[pap smear]]).


''Signs of Vaginal Disease''
===Signs of Vaginal Disease===


Vaginal Diseases present with lumps, discharge and sores.
Vaginal Diseases present with lumps, discharge and sores.


Lumps<ref>Mayo Clinic Staff Bartholin’s Cyst. January 19 2008 accessed http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bartholin-cyst/DS00667/DSECTION=1 23 March 2008</ref>
*Lumps:<ref>Mayo Clinic Staff Bartholin’s Cyst. January 19 2008 accessed http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bartholin-cyst/DS00667/DSECTION=1 23 March 2008</ref>
The presence of unusual lumps in the wall or base of the vagina is always abnormal. The most common of these is [[Bartholin's cyst]]. The cyst, which can feel like a pea, is formed by a blockage in glands which normally supply the opening of the vagina. This condition is easily treated with minor surgery or silver nitrate. Other less common causes of small lumps or vesicles are [[herpes simplex]]. They are usually multiple and very painful with a clear fluid leaving a crust. They may be associated with generalized swelling and are very tender. Lumps associated with cancer of the vaginal wall are very rare and the average age of onset is seventy years<ref>Manetta A, et al Primary invasive carcinoma of the vagina. Obstet Gynecol. 1988 Jul;72(1):77-81.</ref>. The most common form is [[squamous cell carcinoma]], then cancer of the glands or [[adenocarcinoma]] and finally, and even more rarely, [[melanoma]].  
The presence of unusual lumps in the wall or base of the vagina is always abnormal. The most common of these is [[Bartholin's cyst]]. The cyst, which can feel like a pea, is formed by a blockage in glands which normally supply the opening of the vagina. This condition is easily treated with minor surgery or silver nitrate. Other less common causes of small lumps or vesicles are [[herpes simplex]]. They are usually multiple and very painful with a clear fluid leaving a crust. They may be associated with generalized swelling and are very tender. Lumps associated with cancer of the vaginal wall are very rare and the average age of onset is seventy years<ref>Manetta A, et al Primary invasive carcinoma of the vagina. Obstet Gynecol. 1988 Jul;72(1):77-81.</ref>. The most common form is [[squamous cell carcinoma]], then cancer of the glands or [[adenocarcinoma]] and finally, and even more rarely, [[melanoma]].  


Discharge<ref>Spence D, Melville C,. Vaginal Discharge. BMJ  2007;335:1147-1151 (1 December)</ref>  
*Discharge:<ref>Spence D, Melville C,. Vaginal Discharge. BMJ  2007;335:1147-1151 (1 December)</ref>  
The great majority of vaginal discharges are normal or physiological and include blood or menses (from the uterus), the most common, and clear fluid either as a result of sexual arousal or secretions from the cervix. Other non infective causes include [[dermatitis]], discharge from foreign bodies such as retained tampons or foreign bodies inserted by curious children. Non-sexually transmitted discharges occur from [[bacterial vaginosis]] and thrush or [[candidiasis]].  The final group of discharges include sexually transmitted diseases, [[gonorrhoea]], [[Chlamydia]] and [[Trichomonas]].   The discharge from thrush is slightly pungent and white, that from Trichomonas more foul and greenish and that from foreign bodies resembles the discharge of gonorrhoea, greyish or yellow and purulent( like pus).
The great majority of vaginal discharges are normal or physiological and include blood or menses (from the uterus), the most common, and clear fluid either as a result of sexual arousal or secretions from the cervix. Other noninfective causes include [[dermatitis]], discharge from foreign bodies such as retained tampons or foreign bodies inserted by curious children. Non-sexually transmitted discharges occur from [[bacterial vaginosis]] and thrush or [[candidiasis]].  The final group of discharges include sexually transmitted diseases, [[gonorrhoea]], [[Chlamydia]] and [[Trichomonas]]. The discharge from thrush is slightly pungent and white, that from Trichomonas more foul and greenish and that from foreign bodies resembles the discharge of gonorrhea, greyish or yellow and purulent (like pus).


Sores<ref>Micali G, Benign Vulval Lesions. eMedicine Dec 4 2006 accessed at http://www.emedicine.com/med/fulltopic/topic3295.htm#section~AuthorsandEditors 23rd March 2008.</ref>  
*Sores<ref>Micali G, Benign Vulval Lesions. eMedicine Dec 4 2006 accessed at http://www.emedicine.com/med/fulltopic/topic3295.htm#section~AuthorsandEditors 23rd March 2008.</ref>
All sores involve a break down in the walls of the fine membrane of the vaginal wall. The most common of these are abrasions and small ulcers caused by trauma. While these can be inflicted during rape most are actually caused by excessive rubbing from clothing or improper insertion of a sanitary tampon. The typical ulcer or sore caused by [[syphilis]] is painless with raised edges. These are often undetected because they occur mostly inside the vagina. The sores of herpes which occur with vesicles are extremely tender and may cause such swelling that passing urine is difficult. In the developing world a group of parasitic diseases also cause vaginal ulceration such as [[Leishmaniasis]] but these are rarely encountered in the west.  
All sores involve a break down in the walls of the fine membrane of the vaginal wall. The most common of these are abrasions and small ulcers caused by trauma. While these can be inflicted during rape most are actually caused by excessive rubbing from clothing or improper insertion of a sanitary tampon. The typical ulcer or sore caused by [[syphilis]] is painless with raised edges. These are often undetected because they occur mostly inside the vagina. The sores of herpes which occur with vesicles are extremely tender and may cause such swelling that passing urine is difficult. In the developing world a group of parasitic diseases also cause vaginal ulceration such as [[Leishmaniasis]] but these are rarely encountered in the West.  
[[HIV/AIDS]] can be contracted through the vagina during intercourse but is not associated with any local vaginal or vulval disease<ref>Mayo Clinic Staff HIV/AIDS. January 20 2008 accessed at https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hiv-aids/DS00005  on 23rd March</ref>. All the above local vulvovaginal diseases are easily treated. Often only shame prevents patients from presenting for treatment<ref>Butcher J ABC of Sexual Health: Female Sexual Problems 11: Sexual Pain and Sexual Fears. BMJ 1999;318:110-112 ( 9 January )</ref>.
[[HIV/AIDS]] can be contracted through the vagina during intercourse but is not associated with any local vaginal or vulval disease<ref>Mayo Clinic Staff HIV/AIDS. January 20 2008 accessed at https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hiv-aids/DS00005  on 23rd March</ref>. All the above local vulvovaginal diseases are easily treated. Often only shame prevents patients from presenting for treatment<ref>Butcher J ABC of Sexual Health: Female Sexual Problems 11: Sexual Pain and Sexual Fears. BMJ 1999;318:110-112 ( 9 January )</ref>


==Additional images==
==Additional images==
Line 87: Line 82:
* [[Clitoris]]
* [[Clitoris]]
* [[Grafenberg spot]]
* [[Grafenberg spot]]
* [[Masturbation]]
* [[Female ejaculation]]
* [[Kegel exercise]]
* [[Human sexuality]]
* [[Human sexual behavior]]
* [[Cunnilingus]]
* [[Sex-positive feminism]]
* [[Sex]]
* [[Childbirth]]
* [[Childbirth]]
* [[Cunt]] (slang term for a vagina, and one of the [[seven dirty words]])


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist|2}}
 
==External links==
*[http://www.scarleteen.com/body/female_anatomy.html Pink Parts] - "Walk through" of female sexual anatomy.
 
{{Sex}}
{{Female reproductive system}}
{{human anatomical features}}
 


[[Category:Reproductive system]]
[[Category:Gynecology]]
[[Category:Gynecology]]
[[Category:Female reproductive system]]


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[[nan:Im-tō]]
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[[zh:阴道]]
[[zh:阴道]]


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Latest revision as of 12:53, 8 August 2016

Template:Infobox Anatomy

The vagina, (from Latin, literally "sheath" or "scabbard" ) is the cylinder tubular tract leading from the uterus to the exterior of the body in female placental mammals and marsupials, or to the cloaca in female birds, monotremes, and some reptiles. Female insects and other invertebrates also have a vagina, which is the terminal part of the oviduct. The Latinate plural (rarely used in English) is vaginae.

In common speech, the term "vagina" is often used inaccurately to refer to the vulva or female genitals generally; strictly speaking, the vagina is a specific internal structure and the vulva is the exterior genitalia only.

Human anatomy

The human vagina is an elastic muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the vulva.[1] Although there is wide anatomical variation the average vagina is 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) in length; its elasticity allows it to stretch during sexual intercourse and during birth to offspring.[2][3] The vagina connects the superficial vulva to the cervix of the deep uterus.

If the woman stands upright, the vaginal tube points in an upward-backward direction and forms an angle of slightly more than 45 degrees with the uterus. The vaginal opening is at the caudal end of the vulva, behind the opening of the urethra. Above the vagina is Mons Veneris. The vagina, along with the inside of the vulva, is reddish pink in color, as with most healthy internal mucous membranes in mammals.

Vaginal lubrication is provided by the Bartholin's glands near the vaginal opening and the cervix. The membrane of the vaginal wall also produces moisture, although it does not contain any glands. Before and during ovulation, the cervix produces cervical mucus, which provides a favorable environment for sperm to survive.

The hymen is a membrane which is situated at the opening of the vagina. As with many female animals, the hymen covers the opening of the vagina from birth until it is ruptured during activity. The hymen may rupture during sexual or non-sexual activity; the presence or absence of a hymen does not indicate prior sexual activity.

Biological functions of the vagina

The vagina has several biological functions.

Menstruation

The vagina provides a path for menstrual blood and tissue to leave the body. In modern societies, tampons, menstrual cups, and sanitary towels may be used to absorb or capture these fluids.

Sexual activity

The concentration of the nerve endings that lie close to the entrance of a woman's vagina can provide pleasurable sensation during sexual activity, when stimulated in a way that the particular woman enjoys. During sexual arousal and particularly stimulation of the clitoris, the walls of the vagina self-lubricate, reducing friction during sexual activity.

An erogenous zone referred to commonly as the G-spot is located at the anterior wall of the vagina, about five centimeters in from the entrance. Some women experience intense pleasure if the G-spot is stimulated appropriately during sexual activity. A G-Spot orgasm may be responsible for female ejaculation, leading some doctors and researchers to believe that G-spot pleasure comes from the Skene's glands, a female homologue of the prostate, rather than any particular spot on the vaginal wall.[4][5][6] Some researchers deny the existence of the G-spot.[7]

Childbirth

During childbirth, the vagina provides the route to deliver the baby from the uterus to its independent life outside the body of the mother. During birth, the vagina is often referred to as the birth canal. The vagina is remarkably elastic and stretches to many times its normal diameter during vaginal birth.

Sexual health and hygiene

The vagina is self-cleansing and therefore usually needs no special treatment. Since a healthy vagina is colonized by a mutually symbiotic flora of microorganisms that protect its host from disease-causing microbes, any attempt to upset this balance may cause many undesirable outcomes, including abnormal discharge and yeast infection. The acidity of a healthy vagina due to lactic acid secreted by symbiotic microorganisms retards the growth of many strains of dangerous microbes.

The vagina is examined during gynecological exams, often using a speculum, which holds the vagina open for visual inspection of the cervix or taking of samples (see pap smear).

Signs of Vaginal Disease

Vaginal Diseases present with lumps, discharge and sores.

The presence of unusual lumps in the wall or base of the vagina is always abnormal. The most common of these is Bartholin's cyst. The cyst, which can feel like a pea, is formed by a blockage in glands which normally supply the opening of the vagina. This condition is easily treated with minor surgery or silver nitrate. Other less common causes of small lumps or vesicles are herpes simplex. They are usually multiple and very painful with a clear fluid leaving a crust. They may be associated with generalized swelling and are very tender. Lumps associated with cancer of the vaginal wall are very rare and the average age of onset is seventy years[9]. The most common form is squamous cell carcinoma, then cancer of the glands or adenocarcinoma and finally, and even more rarely, melanoma.

The great majority of vaginal discharges are normal or physiological and include blood or menses (from the uterus), the most common, and clear fluid either as a result of sexual arousal or secretions from the cervix. Other noninfective causes include dermatitis, discharge from foreign bodies such as retained tampons or foreign bodies inserted by curious children. Non-sexually transmitted discharges occur from bacterial vaginosis and thrush or candidiasis. The final group of discharges include sexually transmitted diseases, gonorrhoea, Chlamydia and Trichomonas. The discharge from thrush is slightly pungent and white, that from Trichomonas more foul and greenish and that from foreign bodies resembles the discharge of gonorrhea, greyish or yellow and purulent (like pus).

All sores involve a break down in the walls of the fine membrane of the vaginal wall. The most common of these are abrasions and small ulcers caused by trauma. While these can be inflicted during rape most are actually caused by excessive rubbing from clothing or improper insertion of a sanitary tampon. The typical ulcer or sore caused by syphilis is painless with raised edges. These are often undetected because they occur mostly inside the vagina. The sores of herpes which occur with vesicles are extremely tender and may cause such swelling that passing urine is difficult. In the developing world a group of parasitic diseases also cause vaginal ulceration such as Leishmaniasis but these are rarely encountered in the West. HIV/AIDS can be contracted through the vagina during intercourse but is not associated with any local vaginal or vulval disease[12]. All the above local vulvovaginal diseases are easily treated. Often only shame prevents patients from presenting for treatment[13]

Additional images

See also

References

  1. http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina http://www.womenshealth.gov/glossary/#vagina] Womenshealth.gov
  2. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5951 Medterms.com
  3. http://www.metrokc.gov/HEALTH/famplan/flash/grades11-12/G1112-L17.pdf Metrokc.gov
  4. Crooks, R. Our Sexuality. California: Brooks/Cole. Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (help)
  5. Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A (2002). "Sexological approach to ejaculatory dysfunction". Int J Androl. 25 (6): 317–23. PMID 12406363.
  6. Jannini E, Simonelli C, Lenzi A (2002). "Disorders of ejaculation". J Endocrinol Invest. 25 (11): 1006–19. PMID 12553564.
  7. Hines, T (2001). "The G-Spot: A modern gynecologic myth". Am J Obstet Gynecol. 185 (2): 359–62. Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  8. Mayo Clinic Staff Bartholin’s Cyst. January 19 2008 accessed http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bartholin-cyst/DS00667/DSECTION=1 23 March 2008
  9. Manetta A, et al Primary invasive carcinoma of the vagina. Obstet Gynecol. 1988 Jul;72(1):77-81.
  10. Spence D, Melville C,. Vaginal Discharge. BMJ 2007;335:1147-1151 (1 December)
  11. Micali G, Benign Vulval Lesions. eMedicine Dec 4 2006 accessed at http://www.emedicine.com/med/fulltopic/topic3295.htm#section~AuthorsandEditors 23rd March 2008.
  12. Mayo Clinic Staff HIV/AIDS. January 20 2008 accessed at https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hiv-aids/DS00005 on 23rd March
  13. Butcher J ABC of Sexual Health: Female Sexual Problems 11: Sexual Pain and Sexual Fears. BMJ 1999;318:110-112 ( 9 January )

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