WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Vagina

A woman's vagina, also called the birth canal, is part of the reproductive tract and extends from the womb (uterus) to outside the body. The opening to the vagina is located between the bowel opening (anus) and the opening for the bladder (urethra).

Blood from a woman's menstrual period flows through her vagina. During sexual intercourse, sperm are ejaculated from the man's penis into the vagina and travel through the cervical canal and uterus to the fallopian tubes, where fertilization can occur.

Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated June 17, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 17, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.