Quiz: The Truth About the Vagina

The vagina is the narrow, muscular canal that connects the uterus and cervix to the outside of the body. The labia and clitoris are part of the vulva, which is outside the vagina. The labia consists of the fleshy lip-like parts that surround the opening of the vagina, and the clitoris is the very sensitive area located near the top of the inner labia.

Research indicates there’s no standard size or shape for a woman’s vagina; there are many differences in both among women of reproductive age. Such factors as age and height help determine the dimensions of an adult woman’s vagina. 

Because a thong is a close-fitting strip of fabric, it can transport bacteria and fecal matter from the rectum to the vagina and urinary tract if it slides forward. If you’re having issues with diarrhea or other gastrointestinal trouble, it may be particularly wise to save the thong for another day.

There’s no consistent evidence that the G spot physically exists. In 1950, German physician Ernst Grafenberg suggested that an area of the anterior vaginal wall is sensitive to touch and that stimulation of this area can bring about orgasm, but the debate about its existence is ongoing.

Leaving a tampon in your vagina for longer than 8 hours can lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), an infection caused by bacteria. Symptoms of TSS include a high fever; lightheadedness or fainting; a sunburn-like rash; vomiting or diarrhea; severe muscle aches or muscle weakness; redness in the eyes, mouth, throat, and vagina; headache; and disorientation.

Doctors do not recommend douching because it can change the pH balance of your vagina, which can lead to yeast infections. It also may spread an infection to your uterus and increase your risk of PID, an infection of a woman’s pelvic organs. Any odor you notice is probably coming from outside the vagina, near the vulva. Keeping that area clean with a gentle soap and water will prevent that.

Your vaginal discharge will change in amount, color, and consistency throughout your menstrual cycle. It may be clear or milky, and the consistency may be creamy, sticky, or similar to that of egg whites, depending on what phase of the cycle you’re in. There is a normal vaginal odor.

Kegels are exercises in which you squeeze the muscles around your vagina as if you were trying to stop the flow of urine. Also called pelvic floor exercises, Kegels can help prevent urine leakage as well as accidental passing of stool or gas by keeping the uterus, urethra (the tube that carries urine outside the body from the bladder), and bowel from sagging into the vagina. Strengthening these muscles may improve orgasms.

An unusual increase in discharge, a change in the odor of your vaginal discharge, and irritation or itchiness around your vagina are signs of vaginitis, which can be caused by any of several things that upset the balance of a healthy vagina. These include douching or using feminine hygiene sprays, pregnancy, infection, or antibiotics. These symptoms could reflect inflammation of the vagina, vulva, or cervix as well.

Pain during sex is common; almost three out of every four women will have pain during intercourse at some point in their lives. There are many possible causes for this type of pain, and you should see your health care provider if you experience it. However, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the following tips: Use a lubricant; set aside a time for sex when neither you nor your partner is tired or anxious; try sexual activities that don’t cause pain; or try sensual activities, like massage.

A woman who’s had a baby by cesarean delivery has the option of undergoing a trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) and attempting to give birth vaginally (vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC). Certain criteria have to be met. Between 60% and 80% of women who choose TOLAC are able to give birth vaginally.