External female genitalia. Genitals

What does the world know about vaginas? Very little, society seems to pretend that there is nothing at all under a woman’s panties, like a doll.

Even porn and erotic magazines show a vanilla picture that differs from reality in the same way that silicone breasts differ from natural ones. Millions of girls have complexes because of the “wrong” structure of their labia and even go under the surgeon’s knife to correct their imaginary shortcomings.

Elite Daily spoke with a former waxer who has seen hundreds of vaginas in her career. It turned out that there are 5 main types of female labia, which in turn are divided into an infinite number of varieties, each of which is the norm.

1. "Barbie"

This is how most people imagine a vagina, but ironically, this type is the rarest.
In Barbie, the inner labia are located entirely within the outer labia. Both are at the same level with the pelvic bone.

2. "Curtain"

In this type, the labia minora are located below the labia majora. Depending on the girl’s structure, they can stick out a lot or just a little.
This is probably the most common type of vagina, often found in a variety of combinations with the other types described below.

3. "Pie"

Pie may look a lot like Barbie, but the difference is that Pie's labia are positioned lower than the pubic bone. They can be firm and full, or thin and a little flabby. Many people think that it depends on the woman's age, but this is not true.

4. "Horseshoe"

In the “Horseshoe”, the opening of the vagina occurs wider and higher, thereby exposing the labia minora, but a little lower the labia majora seem to narrow. In this type, the labia minora do not descend below the labia majora.

5. "Tulip"

This type of vagina resembles the shape of a flower ready to bloom. In this case, the labia minora are slightly exposed along their entire length. Unlike the Curtain, in which the inner labia hang down, in the Tulle they are at the same level as the outer labia.

Based on materials from: elitedaily.com

External genitalia(Organa genitalia externa, vulva). The external genitalia include: the pubis, the labia majora and minora, the large glands of the vestibule, the clitoris, the passage opening of the vestibule of the vagina, the hymen. Topographically connected to the external genitalia: urethral sphincter, perineum.

Pubis(monspubis) - the lowest part of the abdominal wall, covered with hair. The upper border of pubic hair in women should be strictly horizontal (female pattern hair). The pubis covers the pubic joint; the subcutaneous tissue of this area is very pronounced and performs a buffer protective function. Somewhat above the hairy border there is a transitional fold, which is the upper border of the pubis. On the sides, the pubis is limited by the inguinal folds.
Pubic hair appears during puberty and thins out in older women or due to hormonal deficiency. Male pattern hair growth is observed in women with hyperandrogenism.

Labia majora(labia majora pudendi) - paired skin folds that limit the genital opening. The outside is covered with hair, pigmented, the subcutaneous fat layer is strongly expressed, there are sweat and sebaceous glands. The inner surface is covered with delicate skin, which more closely resembles a mucous membrane. Closing in front, the labia form the anterior commissure, and at the back - the posterior commissure. Between the posterior commissure and the lower edge of the hymen, a depression is formed, called the navicular fossa.

Large glands of the vestibule and Bartholin's glands(glandulae vestibularis major, bartholini) - are located in the lower third of the labia majora, about the size of a bean.
The secretion of the bartalin glands has an alkaline reaction, white color, and a characteristic odor. It is released during sexual arousal through the ducts between the labia minora and the hymen (or its remains), facilitates sexual intercourse and helps increase sperm motility.

Labia minora(labia minora pudendi) - formed by folds of delicate skin, reminiscent of mucous membrane, covered by the labia majora, located on their inner side. In front they pass into the clitoris, in the back they merge with the labia majora; have sebaceous glands, abundant blood supply and innervation. The clitoris (clitoris) is an analogue of the male penis. Its mucous membrane is rich in blood vessels, nerves, sebaceous and sweat glands, which produce a cheese-like lubricant (smegma). It consists of a head, a body (consisting of two cavernous bodies) and legs, attached to the periosteum of the pubic and ischial bones.
The legs are a continuation of the bifurcated labia minora; they form the foreskin and frenulum of the clitoris.

Clitoris is an organ of sexual sensitivity; during sexual intercourse, its increase (erection) is observed due to increased blood flow. The vestibule of the vagina (vestibulum vaginae) is a space bounded in front by the clitoris, in the back by the posterior commissure, the inner surface of the labia minora and the hymen or its remnants. The external opening of the urethra, the ducts of the large glands of the vestibule and many small glands open here.

Hymen(hymen) - protects the vagina in virgins. Has a small hole for menstrual flow. Defloration (rupture of the hymen) is accompanied by hemorrhage and pain. Even after childbirth, remnants of the hymen remain in the form of papillae.

Urethra(urethra) - has a length of 3-4 cm. The external genital organs include the external opening of the urethra, surrounded by a sphincter, on the sides of which the paraurethral passages of the skenian sinuses, or glands that secrete secretions, open.

Crotch(perineum) - the anterior, or obstetric, perineum is located between the posterior commissure and the anus; formed by the following tissues: skin, subcutaneous tissue, superficial fascia, muscle-fascial formations. The height of the anterior perineum is usually 3-4 cm. During childbirth, when the head passes, the perineum is stretched, and injury or a special incision (perineotomy) is possible. The posterior perineum is located between the anus and the tailbone.

Functions of the external genitalia- protection of internal genital organs; they are organs of sexual sensitivity; form the entrance gate during sexual intercourse, participate in the formation of the orgasmic cuff; are the exit gate of the birth canal during the birth of a child. The condition of the genital organs can be assessed during examination (in addition, it is necessary to separate the labia; if palpation is necessary, great care should be taken, given the delicacy of this area).

You should pay attention to the correct development of organs, the nature of hair growth, the condition of the hymen or its remains, signs of inflammation, varicose veins, the presence of injuries, scars. The blood supply to the external genitalia on each side is provided by arteries arising from the external iliac artery (external pudendal and external spermatic) and from the internal iliac artery (internal pudendal and obturator). Venous outflow occurs through the veins of the same name. In the area of ​​the clitoris and at the edges of the vestibular bulbs, venous plexuses are formed. Lymphatic drainage from the external genitalia goes to the inguinal and femoral lymph nodes.

The innervation of the external genitalia is carried out mainly by the branches of the pudendal nerve (n.pudendus), which originates from the internal sacral nerve. Knowledge of the external genitalia is necessary for the midwife to correctly assess hormonal development, suspect sexually transmitted and inflammatory diseases of the genitals, assess virginity, a woman’s hygienic skills, conduct correct catheterization, gynecological examinations, sanitize the genitals, assist in childbirth, dissect the perineum, restore the vulva after childbirth injuries, treat and remove perineal sutures, etc.

Internal genital organs (organa genitalia interna).
Vagina (vagina, colpos) has the shape of a tube, connects the external genitalia and the cervix. The front wall has a length of 7-8 cm, and the back one - 9-10 cm. The walls of the vagina are closed in the lower third, but easily expand by 2-3 cm, and during childbirth due to folding they can expand up to 8-10 cm. In the upper part of the vagina, a cervix protrudes, around which the vaginal vaults are formed. The vagina does not close in this part. Its diameter is about 8 cm. The deepest is the posterior arch, the shallowest is the anterior arch.

The vaginal wall consists of a mucous membrane, a muscular layer, a connective tissue membrane and is surrounded by fiber. The mucosa is lined with stratified squamous epithelium, which consists of four layers: superficial (functional), intermediate, parabasal and basal. During the menstrual cycle, as well as during pregnancy, changes occur in the structure of the epithelium. The functional layer, and partly the intermediate one, is rejected during menstruation; under the influence of estrogens, the mucous membrane regenerates and has the most magnificent appearance with all the layers expressed during maximum estrogen production. In order to find out which cells are currently located most superficially (and thus evaluate hormonal development), a smear is taken from the side wall of the vagina with a wooden spatula, which is then applied to glass.

The mucous membrane has many folds that allow the vagina to expand. Adjacent to the mucosa is the muscular layer, which consists of an internal circular layer, which is more developed and contains a large number of elastic fibers, and an external longitudinal one. The tissue surrounding the vagina (paravaginal) contains blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves.

Due to the sweating of fluid from the blood and lymphatic vessels, the vagina is moisturized. The vaginal contents normally have an acidic reaction due to the activity of vaginal rods (Doderlein sticks). An acidic environment is created by lactic acid, which is formed from glycogen contained in epithelial cells under the influence of enzymes and waste products of lactobacilli. In healthy women, vaginal discharge is light and not abundant. By analyzing these secretions, one can judge whether the vagina is infected.

There are four degrees of vaginal cleanliness:
With degree I of purity, the vaginal environment is acidic, there are large numbers of Doderlein bacilli, a small number of epithelial cells, and no pathogenic flora or leukocytes. This degree of purity is typical for virgins.
At the II degree of purity, the environment is less acidic, the number of Doderlein rods decreases, and there are many epithelial cells. Single leukocytes and non-pathogenic microorganisms appear. This picture is observed in healthy women.
At degree III - a neutral environment (but can be slightly acidic or slightly alkaline). There are even fewer Doderlein rods, there can be up to 15-20 leukocytes, single pathogenic microorganisms appear. Additional examination and sanitation is required.
With IV degree, there is a clear clinical picture of colpitis, i.e. inflammation of the vagina. There are no Doderlein rods, but there is an excess of leukocytes, pathogenic flora, gonococci, trichomonas. The environment is usually alkaline. Additional examination and treatment is required.

In front of the vagina is the urethra, behind is the rectum. Through the posterior vaginal fornix, puncturing it for diagnostic purposes, they enter the area of ​​the pouch of Douglas.

Functions of the vagina: protective, since vaginal bacilli and an acidic environment contribute to the death of pathogenic flora; it is an organ for copulation; during childbirth it forms an integral part of the birth canal. Methods for examining the vagina: speculum examination and vaginal examination. For inspection, metal spoon-shaped mirrors of the Simps type with an Ott lift or folding mirrors of the Cusco type are used. In recent years, disposable plastic mirrors have been used. To study the vaginal flora, a smear is used to determine the degree of vaginal cleanliness, and a smear is used for culture. These studies relate to gynecological examinations and are studied in detail in the gynecology course.

Uterus (metra, uterus, hystera) has a pear shape. Its length is 7-9 cm, and the length of the cervix is ​​3 cm. The width of the uterus in the body area is up to 5 cm, in the cervical area 2-3 cm. Thickness - 1.5-3 cm depending on the phase of the cycle, weight - about 50 g Sections of the uterus. The uterus consists of the following sections: the body of the uterus (corpus uteri), the cervix (cervix uteri) and the isthmus located between them (isthmus). In the body of the uterus, the upper part is called the fundus, the anterior and posterior surfaces are called the middle and posterior walls, and the side parts are called the ribs. The place where the fallopian tube enters the uterus (inside) is called the angle.

The isthmus begins to be defined only during pregnancy; by the end of pregnancy and during childbirth, it transforms into the lower segment of the uterus. There is a space inside the uterus called the uterine cavity (cavum uteri). The cervix is ​​divided into the vaginal and supravaginal parts. Inside the cervix runs the cervical, or cervical, canal, which has a spindle-shaped shape when cut and is filled with cervical mucus. Through the external os it communicates with the vagina, and through the internal os it communicates with the uterine cavity. In nulliparous women, the cervix has the shape of a truncated cone, tapering towards the vagina, the external pharynx has the shape of a point. The shape of the cervix in women who have given birth is in the form of a cylinder (cylindrical), and the external pharynx has a slit-like shape.

Layers of the uterus: endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. The inside of the uterus is lined with a mucous membrane (mucosa) - the endometrium, which consists of two layers: the internal basal (germinal) and the external functional, the latter being exfoliated during menstruation. The mucosa is covered with ciliated columnar epithelium. Adjacent to the endometrium is the myometrium (muscular layer), which consists of three layers: submucous, intramural (intrastial) and subserous. The smooth muscles of the outer and Morning layers are located in parallel, in the inner layer the muscles are arranged circularly, the fibers in the lower layer are intertwined. The outside of the uterus is covered with a serous membrane, or peritoneum (perimetry).

Function of the uterus: she is the fruit's receptacle. It is characterized by menstrual cyclic activity and contractile activity necessary for the expulsion of the fetus. Methods for examining the uterus: in obstetric practice the following are used: examination of the cervix on mirrors, bimanual examination, ultrasound examination. In gynecology, other methods of examining the uterus and other internal genital organs are studied.

Fallopian tubes or fallopian tubes (tuba uterina, salpinx)- paired organs 10-12 cm long, connecting the uterine cavity and the abdominal cavity. Pipe sections:
intrauterine (interstitial, or intramural) - the narrowest and shortest;
isthmic, or isthmic;
ampullary - the widest section, ending in a funnel with fimbriae.

The length of the intrauterine section is 1 cm, the width is also 1 cm, and the lumen diameter of this narrowest section is only 1 mm. The length of the isthmus is 4-5 cm, and the diameter of the tube lumen is 4 mm. The length of the ampullary section of the tube is 6-7 cm, the width reaches 5 cm, and its lumen expands to 1.2 cm. The funnel of the ampullary part can be further expanded; it communicates with the abdominal cavity. The fimbriae, or fimbriae, of this section ensure the passage of the egg into the tube. Of all the fimbriae, one stands out in length (3 cm), which is called the main one, or the ovarian fimbria, or even the “pointing finger”.

The layers of the fallopian tube from the top layer to the inner layer are as follows:
Perisalpings, or serous membrane, which is formed from the peritoneum of the broad ligament of the uterus; along the lower edge of the tube, the mesentery of the tube (mesosalpings) is formed from it. Below lies a weakly defined layer of connective tissue membrane in which the vessels pass.
Metrosalpings is a muscle layer consisting of an external and internal longitudinal layer, as well as a middle circular layer; In the interstitial layer, a sphincter is formed due to the circular layer of muscles. The muscle layer in the outer part becomes thinner.
Endosalpings, or mucous membrane covered with columnar ciliated epithelium. The mucosa has many longitudinal folds, especially in the ampullary section.

The functions of the fallopian tubes are the oviducts, the egg passes through them, fertilization occurs in the ampullary part, the crushing and development of the fertilized fertilized egg occurs in the tube, the first stages of embryogenesis. The tubes are examined using bimanual examination, ultrasound and special gynecological examination methods.

Ovary (ovarium)- paired organs of ovoid shape, the dimensions of which are 3 cm in length, 2 cm in width, 1.5 cm in thickness. The ovary is not covered by peritoneum, with the exception of one area on the posterior wall, which is attached by means of a small mesentery to the broad ligament of the uterus. The weight of the ovary is 6-8 g. The structure of the ovary. The ovary is covered with germinal cubic epithelium, under which there is a connective tissue, or tunica albuginea, deeper is the cortex, and in the very depths is the medulla.

Ovarian function- hormonal, it synthesizes female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone, as well as androgens. The ovary contains germinal follicles, from which an egg matures monthly during reproductive age. The examination of the ovary is carried out using bimanual and ultrasound examination methods, as well as special gynecological examination methods.

Blood supply to the internal genital organs carried out mainly by the uterine arteries, which arise from the internal iliac arteries, and the ovarian arteries, which arise from the aorta. The uterine arteries approach the uterus at the level of the internal os, are divided into descending branches (supplying blood to the cervix and upper part of the vagina) and ascending branches, which rise along the ribs of the uterus, giving off transverse additional branches for the myometrium, branches for the broad and round ligaments, fallopian tube and ovary.

The ovarian arteries provide blood supply to the ovaries, fallopian tubes and upper parts of the uterus (anastamoses are developed between the uterine and ovarian arteries). The blood supply to the fallopian tubes is carried out by branches of the uterine and ovarian arteries, which correspond to similar veins. Venous plexuses are located in the area of ​​mesosalpings and round uterine ligament. The upper part of the vagina receives nutrition from the branches of the uterine arteries and vaginal arteries. The middle part of the vagina is supplied with blood by the branches of the internal iliac arteries (inferior cystic arteries, middle rectal artery). The lower part of the vagina also receives blood supply from the middle rectal artery and from the internal pudendal arteries.

Venous outflow is carried out through the veins of the same name, forming plexuses in the thickness of the broad ligaments between the uterus and ovaries and between the bladder and vagina.

Lymphatic drainage from the lower part of the vagina goes to the inguinal nodes. From the upper parts of the vagina, cervix and lower segment of the uterus, lymph goes to the sacral, obturator, external and internal iliac nodes, parametrial and pararectal lymph nodes. From the upper part of the uterine body, lymph collects in the para-aortic and pararenal lymph nodes. The outflow of lymph from the fallopian tubes and ovaries occurs in the periovarian and para-aortic lymph nodes.

The innervation of the internal genital organs comes from the nerve plexuses located in the abdominal cavity and pelvis: superior hypogastric, lower hypogastric (pelvic), vaginal, ovarian. The body of the uterus receives predominantly sympathetic fibers, the cervix and vagina - parasympathetic. The innervation of the fallopian tubes is carried out by the parasympathetic and sympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system from the uterovaginal, ovarian plexuses and fibers of the external spermatic nerve.

Topography of the pelvic organs. Preservation of the topographic relationships of the internal genital organs is ensured by the presence of hanging, fixing and supporting devices. The same device ensures their mobility, which is especially necessary during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.

Hanging apparatus represented by paired ligaments-1, which suspend the uterus and appendages, connecting them to the walls of the pelvis and to each other. Broad ligaments - doubling the peritoneum covering the uterus and fallopian tubes, go from the side walls of the uterus to the side walls of the pelvis. The ovaries are attached to the posterior surface of the broad ligaments. Proper ovarian ligaments - connect the ovaries to the uterus. Infundibulopelvic ligaments - connect the ovary and the ampullary part of the fallopian tube with the walls of the pelvis. Round ligaments of the uterus - begin below the corners of the uterus, deflect the uterus anteriorly, pass through the inguinal canal, attach to the pubis, end in the thickness of the large genitalia, are cords consisting of smooth muscle and connective tissue 10-15 cm long and 3-5 mm in diameter .

Fixing apparatus of the uterus is represented by the following ligaments formed by smooth muscle and connective tissue fibers: The main, or cardinal, ligament of the uterus - surrounds the cervix at the level of the internal os, intertwined with both the broad ligament and the pelvic fascia. The uterosacral ligaments are paired ligaments that extend from the posterior surface of the cervix in the area of ​​the internal pharynx, bypass the rectum and attach to the inner surface of the sacrum. The vesicouterine ligaments are paired ligaments that extend from the anterior surface of the isthmus region, surround the bladder and attach to the pubic bones.

Supporting apparatus of the internal genital organs make up the muscles and fascia of the pelvic floor, which can be divided into three layers:

The outer layer includes the following muscles:
ischiocavernosus paired muscles running from the ischial tuberosities to the clitoris;
bulbospongiosum paired muscles running from the clitoris to the tendon center of the vagina, clasping the entrance to the vagina;
superficial transverse muscles of the perineum, running from the ischial tuberosities to the tendon center of the perineum, where these paired muscles connect;
The external anal sphincter surrounds the lower part of the rectum in a ring.

The middle layer is called the urogenital diaphragm and includes:
external urethral sphincter;
paired deep transverse muscles of the perineum, located under the superficial transverse muscles, but more strongly developed.
The inner layer of the pelvic floor muscles, or the pelvic diaphragm, is formed by the levator ani muscles. These are well-developed muscles, consisting of three paired bundles running from the sacrococcygeal region to the three bones of the pelvis:
pubococcygeus muscles;
iliococcygeus muscles;
ischiococcygeus muscles.

Parietal muscles of the pelvis: internal iliac muscle, psoas major muscle, piriformis muscle, obturator internal muscle muscle - should be known after studying the anatomy. The ligaments and muscles of the pelvic floor help hold the genitals in a certain position. The body of the uterus is at an angle to the cervix, the angle is obtuse, about 100 degrees, and is open anteriorly. This position of the uterus is called anteflexio, anteversio.

Pelvic fiber. In the pelvic area, fiber is located:
around the vagina (peri-vaginal, or paravaginal, tissue);
around the rectum (pararectal tissue);
between the leaves of the broad ligaments of the uterus (parametral);
around the bladder (paravesical).

Fiber also contributes to the normal location of the internal genital organs and their functional mobility and stretching. All the fibers of the pelvis are communicated, which contributes to the spread of infection.

Topography of the peritoneum. The parietal peritoneum, descending along the posterior wall of the abdominal cavity, lines the rectal recess (pouch of Douglas), passes into the visceral layer, covers the uterus, on the sides in the form of duplication (doubling) covers the pipes, forms broad ligaments. In front, the visceral peritoneum lines the recess between the uterus and the urinary tract. bladder, forms a vesico-uterine fold, covers the bladder and passes into the parietal layer of the anterior abdominal wall.

Knowledge of the anatomy of the genital organs is necessary for a midwife so that she can examine a woman, provide the necessary assistance in obstetric and gynecological practice, understand what processes occur in a woman’s genital organs during pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period, and at various periods of life, for gynecological and oncogynecological diseases.

Among the female genital organs, a distinction is made between external and internal. The external ones include the pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vestibule of the vagina. The hymen is the boundary between the external and internal genital organs. A woman's external genitalia varies greatly in appearance. Differences include the size, shape and pigmentation of the labia, color, texture, amount and distribution of pubic hair, appearance of the clitoris, vaginal vestibule and hymen.
The genital organs of different people vary in their structure, just like the structure of their faces.

• Vagina
• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Epididymis
• Uterus

• Pubis
• Labia majora
• Labia minora
• Crotch
• Clitoris
• Vaginal vestibule
• Bulb vestibule
• Muscle duct (urethra)
• Large glands of the vestibule
• Hymen

Internal female genital organs

The internal genital organs include: vagina, uterus, uterine appendages (fallopian tubes and ovaries). Internal genital organs can also be considered ligaments that suspend the uterus and appendages. The internal genital organs are located inside the pelvic ring.

Vagina

The vagina (vagina) is a solid-tissue canal from 7-8 to 9-10 cm long. It is attached to the junction of the cervix into its body. This is where the cervix protrudes into the vaginal lumen (the vaginal part of the cervix). At the point of attachment of the vagina to the cervix, the fornix is ​​formed: anterior, posterior, left and right. The least deep is the anterior arch, the deepest is the posterior. The vagina is an internal organ formed by muscle tissue and located diagonally, at an angle of 45° to the lower back.
In the absence of sexual stimulation, the vaginal walls collapse. In a nulliparous woman, the length of the posterior vaginal wall is
on average 8 cm, and the front - 6 cm.

The mucous membrane consists of stratified squamous epithelium; there are no glands in it. Epithelial cells contain glycogen, from which lactic acid is produced, which determines the optimal conditions for the existence of non-pathogenic bacilli, the so-called vaginal bacilli (Doderlein bacilli). The acidic environment of the vaginal contents and the presence of rods prevent the development of pathogenic microbes.

During sexual arousal, blood plasma is released through the walls of the venous vessels of the vagina into the lumen of this genital organ (the so-called “sweating”), which, when mixed with the secretion of the Bertolin glands, forms a “lubricant” that facilitates the sliding of the penis. Also, during sexual arousal

The average length of the vagina in a non-excited state is 8-12 cm, but thanks to the muscles and folds, when aroused, the vagina can greatly stretch both in length and width, tightly covering the male genital organ of almost any size. Therefore, the size of the penis has virtually no effect on the female orgasm.
According to some anatomists, at a depth of several centimeters in the vagina there is the so-called “G-spot,” an area of ​​the vagina comparable in sensitivity to the clitoris. However, it should be remembered that most scientists consider the existence of such a part of the genital organs in women unproven. Therefore, it is hardly worth focusing on searching for this point during sexual intercourse.

The vagina, like an inflatable balloon, can change its shape and size. It is capable of expanding, creating conditions for the passage of the head
child during childbirth, or shrink so much that it covers the finger inserted into it from all sides.

Despite its ability to contract, a woman's vagina cannot enclose the penis so tightly during intercourse.
so that physical separation becomes impossible. The mating that sometimes occurs in dogs is mainly due to the expansion
bulbar part of the penis.

Many people are interested in the relationship between vaginal size and sexual satisfaction. Because the width of the vagina is equally good
adapts to a large or small penis; discrepancy between the sizes of the genital organs of men and women is rarely the cause
complications in sexual relationships. After childbirth, the vagina usually expands somewhat and has some elasticity.
decreases. According to some authors, in such cases, exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the vagina can help,
which will contribute to increased sexual reactivity.

"Cajel (Kegel) Exercises" consist of contraction of the pelvic muscles that support the vagina, namely the bulbocavernosus
and pubococcygeus (pubo coccygeus). These same muscles contract when a woman stops urinating or tightens her vagina,
preventing the insertion of a tampon, finger or penis. During exercises, the muscles contract strongly for one or two seconds and then relax;
To achieve maximum results, you should repeat such contractions several times a day, performing 10 contractions each time.
In addition to strengthening muscles, these exercises allow a woman to get to know herself. However, at present it is not entirely clear whether this increases
sexual reactivity.

The inner lining of the vagina is similar to the oral mucosa. The vaginal mucosa provides hydration. Secretory glands
There is no vagina, but it is rich in blood vessels. The endings of sensory nerve fibers are present at the entrance to the vagina, and in the rest of it
There are relatively few of them in areas. As a result, the deeper part of the vagina (about two-thirds) is relatively less sensitive
to touch or pain.

In recent years, there has been ongoing controversy regarding the existence on the anterior wall of the vagina (halfway between the pubic bone and the cervix).
a certain area that is especially sensitive to erotic stimulation. This area, called zone G (after the German doctor Gräfenberg,
who described it in 1950), in an unexcited state has the size of an ordinary bean, but upon stimulation it greatly increases due to
tissue swelling.

Ladas, Whipple, and Perry (1982) state that in a study of more than 400 women, they found a G area in every one of them; in their opinion, before this
the structure went unnoticed because “in the absence of excitation it is very small and difficult to detect.” These data contradict
the results of studies in which Whipple herself later participated: zone G was identified in only 4 out of 11 women; not confirmed
existence and the data of our studies conducted at the Masters and Johnson Institute: out of 100 carefully examined women, only
10% had an area of ​​increased sensitivity or a lump of compacted tissue on the anterior wall of the vagina, consistent with the descriptions
zone G. Similar studies also did not reveal the presence of zone G, although many women noted increased erotic sensitivity
on the anterior wall of the vagina. Later work concluded that "the presence of a G zone... even in a minority of women, not to mention
already about their majority cannot yet be considered proven." Thus, it is necessary to conduct additional research to establish
does zone G really exist as some kind of independent anatomical structure, or, as Helen Kaplan writes, “the idea that
that many women have special erogenous zones in their vaginas that enhance pleasure and orgasm is not new and should not cause controversy.”

Perhaps the greater sensitivity of the anterior vaginal wall represents "an integral part of the clitoral orgasmic reflex."
The lower part of the uterus - the cervix (cervix) protrudes into the vagina. From the vaginal side, the cervix of a nulliparous woman looks like a smooth pink
buttons with a rounded surface and a small hole in the center. Sperm penetrate the uterus through the cervical os; through him
Menstrual blood is released from the uterus. The cervical canal (a thin tube connecting the cervical os to the uterine cavity) contains numerous
glands that produce mucus. The consistency of this mucus depends on hormonal levels and therefore changes at different stages of the menstrual cycle:
just before ovulation or during the latter (when the egg is released from the ovary), the mucus becomes thin and watery;
at other times it is thick and forms a plug that blocks the entrance to the cervix.

There are no superficial nerve endings in the cervix, and therefore touching it causes almost no sexual sensations; surgical
Removing the cervix does not reduce a woman's sexual activity.

Uterus

The uterus (uterus) is a hollow muscular organ shaped like an upside-down and somewhat flattened pear.

Its length is approximately 7.5 cm and width 5 cm. Anatomically, the uterus is divided into several parts.

The endometrium lining the inside of the uterus and its muscular component, the myometrium, perform different functions.

During the menstrual cycle, the endometrium undergoes changes, and at the beginning of pregnancy a fertilized egg is implanted into it.

The muscle wall is actively involved in labor and delivery. Both functions of the uterus are regulated by hormones - chemicals that
also causing uterine enlargement during pregnancy. The uterus is fixed in the pelvic cavity with the help of six ligaments, but not very rigidly.

The angle between the uterus and vagina varies among women. Usually the uterus is located more or less perpendicular to the axis of the vaginal canal,
however, in about 25% of women it is curved backward, and in about 10% it is curved forward. Sometimes this anatomy of the internal genital organs can cause pain during intercourse during deep frictions, since the head of the penis can hit the outer walls of the uterus. In this case, you need to choose a position of sexual intercourse in which the man’s sexual organ does not enter the vagina to its full depth.
Since the nerve endings on the genitals of a man are most concentrated on the head of the penis, and in a woman - in the lower part of the vagina, such positions do not affect the intensity of sensations in both partners.

In cases where the uterus is rigidly fixed by adhesions,
arising after operations or as a result of an inflammatory process, a woman may feel pain during sexual intercourse;
this situation requires surgical intervention.

Isthmus

The isthmus is a canal about 1 cm long located between the uterine cavity and the cervical canal. The internal os of the cervix is ​​located at the isthmus site. During pregnancy and childbirth, the lower part of the uterine body and the isthmus make up the lower segment of the uterus.

The cervix partially protrudes into the lumen of the vagina (vaginal part), and is partially located above the vagina (supravaginal part). In women who have not given birth, the cervix has a conical shape. In women who have given birth, the cervix is ​​wider and has a cylindrical shape. The cervical canal (cervical canal) is also cylindrical in shape. The external opening of the cervical canal is called the external os. In those who have not given birth, it is rounded, “pointed”, and in those who have given birth, it is slit-like due to lateral ruptures of the cervix during childbirth.
Sperm enter the uterus through the cervical canal, and during menstruation, discharge comes out. During sexual arousal, the uterus rises, lengthening the vagina.

Fallopian tubes

The fallopian tubes (fallopian tubes) are narrow tubes with a pronounced muscular layer that are constantly contracting. Their mucous membrane consists of cells with cilia, which create a fluid flow in the direction from the pelvic cavity to the uterine cavity. Thus, the egg is transported from the ovary to the uterus. Along the way - in the tube - fertilization of the egg occurs - its fusion with the sperm. The egg becomes heavier and reaches the uterine cavity more slowly. Disruption of the ciliary apparatus due to inflammation of the tube, narrowing of the tube, disruption of coordinated muscle contraction leads to the fact that the egg settles in the tube, and an ectopic tubal pregnancy develops.

The length of the fallopian tubes is about 10 cm. The tube consists of four parts: intramural (passes through the wall of the uterus), isthmus (the narrowest section of the tube next to the uterus), ampullary (the longest tortuous part of the tube), abdominal (terminal) which opens into a funnel abdominal cavity.

Unlike men, whose abdominal cavity is isolated from the external environment, in women the abdominal cavity is connected to the external environment. Thus, women are more likely to get infection through the genitals into the abdominal cavity. The fallopian tubes are also called oviducts, since the eggs move through the tube channel from the abdominal cavity to the uterine cavity.

Ovaries

The ovaries, or female gonads, are paired organs located on either side of the uterus. The size of the ovaries can be compared
with almonds in shell (approximately 3 x 2 x 1.5 cm); they are held in place by connective tissue, which is attached to the broad
ligament of the uterus.
Even before a girl is born, the development of future eggs begins in her developing ovaries. At about 5-6 months of pregnancy, the ovaries
the fetus contains 6-7 million future eggs, most of which are atretic before the girl is born. The ovaries of a newborn contain
approximately 400,000 immature eggs; subsequently no new eggs are formed. Atresia continues in childhood
and the number of eggs decreases even more. The immature eggs are surrounded by a thin layer of cells that form the follicle.

The ovaries are the female reproductive glands (paired organ). They are located in a separate recess of the peritoneum and are attached to the posterior wall of the peritoneum by a broad ligament. The size of the ovary is 3 x 2 x 1 cm, and it weighs about 7 g. The main layer of the ovary is the cortex, which covers the inner layer - the medulla. The cortical layer contains follicles containing eggs. The medulla, which consists of softer connective tissue, contains numerous blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves. The ovaries perform two functions: they produce hormones (the most important of them are estradiol and progesterone) and produce eggs.

The fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterine ligaments are called the uterine appendages.
The normal, typical arrangement of the internal genital organs is facilitated by the intrinsic tone of the genital organs, the coordinated activity of the diaphragm, abdominals and pelvic floor, as well as the ligamentous apparatus of the uterus

Peritoneum of the female pelvic cavity

In women, in the pelvic cavity, the parietal layer of the peritoneum, descending from the abdominal cavity along its posterior wall, passes through the linea terminalis, covering the meso-peritoneal anterior surface of the middle third of the rectum. Then the peritoneum passes to the posterior fornix of the vagina and, following upward, covers the posterior surface of the uterus, reaching its bottom. Here the peritoneum descends again and covers the anterior surface of the uterine body, reaching its cervix. Transferring further to the posterior surface of the bladder, it follows upward, reaches its apex, after which it passes into the parietal peritoneum, lining the inner surface of the anterior wall of the abdomen. Thus, in relation to the uterus, the peritoneum forms two recesses located in the frontal plane: one between the rectum and the uterus - the rectal-uterine recess, excavatio rectouterina, and the second between the uterus and the bladder - the vesico-uterine recess, excavatio vesicouterina. The first depression is much deeper and is limited at the edges by rectouterine folds, plicae rectouterinae, the thickness of which contains underdeveloped muscles of the same name containing smooth muscle fibers. The second depression, excavatio vesicouterina, is smaller than the first, its depth depends on the degree of filling of the bladder. Both recesses, except the uterus, are separated from one another by its wide ligaments, ligg, lata uteri, which are a duplication of the peritoneum.

Blood supply external genitalia occurs due to the pudendal artery and, in part, branches of the femoral artery. The internal genital organs are supplied with blood through the hypogastric artery, branches of the uterine and vaginal arteries, as well as through the ovarian artery. The outflow of venous blood occurs through the veins of the same name.

Lymphatic system is a network of tortuous lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes located along the blood vessels in the direction of the movement of venous blood.

Nervous system consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts, as well as the spinal nerves. The solar, hypogastric and utero-vaginal (or pelvic, sacral) plexus take part in the innervation of the genital organs. Sensitive nerve endings from the genital organs are connected with the subcortical nerve centers and with the cerebral cortex and constitute a single complex system for regulating physiological processes in the reproductive apparatus, including the development of these organs, menstrual and reproductive functions and the period of extinction (menopause).

External female genitalia

Pubis

The pubis (mons veneris) is an elevation consisting of adipose tissue, located in front and slightly above the pubic joint, covered with skin and hair, the upper limit of growth of which goes horizontally (unlike men, in whom hair growth extends upward along the midline).
There are many nerve endings in this area, so touching and/or applying pressure to it can cause sexual arousal.
Many women find that pubic stimulation produces the same pleasant sensations as direct touching the clitoris.

Labia minora

The labia minora (labia minora) are located deeper, behind the labia majora. In front, they seem to emerge from the clitoris, forming two legs that go back. The labia minora are covered by a thin layer of skin that resembles a pale pink mucous membrane. If small lips protrude beyond the boundaries of the large ones, then the skin that covers them is dark brown.

The labia minora look like curved petals. Their core is formed by spongy tissue rich in small blood vessels
and does not contain fat cells. The skin covering the labia minora is devoid of hair, but contains many nerve endings. Small lips meet
above the clitoris, forming a fold of skin called the clitoral foreskin. This area of ​​the labia minora is sometimes called the female foreskin.

For many women, the labia minora is one of the main erogenous zones. The tissue that forms the labia minora does not contain a fatty layer, but is penetrated by venous vessels, reminiscent of the cavernous bodies in the male genitals. When excited, the labia minora become filled with blood and become somewhat swollen. If the skin covering the labia becomes infected, sexual intercourse may become painful and itching or burning may also occur.

On the inner surface of the labia minora there are ducts of the so-called Bertholin glands (two paired glands that, during sexual arousal, produce mucus that facilitates the penetration of the penis into the vagina; the glands themselves are located in the thickness of the labia majora). It was once believed that these glands played a major role in the production of vaginal lubrication, but it is now established that the few drops of secretion that they usually secrete during sexual arousal only slightly moisturize the labia.

Labia majora

The labia majora (labia majora) are pronounced longitudinal folds of skin located on the sides of the genital slit, under which there is a subcutaneous base with fibrous fibers, where blood vessels and nerves pass and the Bartholin glands are located. The labia majora in front converge into the anterior commissure, which is located above the clitoris and covers it. Backward, the labia majora narrow and, converging one on the other, pass into the posterior commissure. The skin of the outer surface of the labia majora is covered with hair and contains sweat and sebaceous glands. On the inside, the labia majora are covered with thin pink skin, similar to a mucous membrane. The genital cleft is the space between the labia majora.

The skin of the labia majora has many nerve endings. Although, only in a small percentage of women stimulation of the labia majora causes arousal. In the absence of sexual stimulation, the labia majora are usually closed at the midline, which provides mechanical protection for the urethral opening and vaginal opening.

Crotch

The perineum is the space between the posterior commissure of the labia majora and the external opening of the anus. The outside of the perineum is covered with skin, on which a line is visible from the posterior commissure to the anus - the perineal seam. In the thickness of the perineum there are three layers of muscles that make up the pelvic floor. The distance from the posterior commissure to the anus is called the perineal height; it is 3-4 cm. If the perineum is high or low-stretch (rigid), during childbirth, in order to avoid tearing the perineum, it is cut (episiotomy).

This area is often sensitive to touch, pressure, temperature and can be a source of sexual arousal.

Clitoris

The clitoris is a small cone-shaped structure that consists of cavernous bodies, similar to the structure of the male penis. In the cavernous bodies there are connected voids filled with circulating blood that comes here from the blood vessels. During sexual arousal, the clitoris becomes intensely filled with blood, it enlarges and thickens (erection), since the clitoris has many vessels and nerves. The corpora cavernosa are not capable of contraction and cannot be completely thrombosed, so traumatic damage to the clitoris is dangerous.

The clitoris is the most mysterious part of the female reproductive system, the most unknown, the most necessary in sexual life.

The clitoris, one of the most sensitive areas of the female genital organs, is located where the tips of the labia minora meet.

The head of the clitoris resembles a small shiny button. To see it, you need to carefully pull back the foreskin (skin) covering the clitoris.

The body of the clitoris (corpus clitoris) consists of spongy tissue forming two long legs (crura) in the shape of an inverted V.

The legs are directed towards the pelvic bones. The clitoris is rich in nerve endings, making it very sensitive to touch, pressure and
temperature. This is a unique organ whose only known function is to concentrate and accumulate
woman's sexual sensations.

The clitoris is often viewed as a miniature penis, but this is a sexualized and misleading idea. The clitoris is not involved
neither in reproduction nor in urination; it does not lengthen, unlike the penis, when stimulated, although it also fills with blood.

During embryonic development, the clitoris and penis are formed from the same rudiment.

The size and appearance of the clitoris varies greatly, but there is no evidence to suggest that a larger clitoris can
create stronger sexual arousal

Clitoral circumcision - the surgical removal of the foreskin - is believed to increase a woman's sexual responsiveness because it
It becomes possible to stimulate the glans of the clitoris more directly. However, this practice can only help
in rare cases, because it has two big drawbacks:
1) the head of the clitoris is often too sensitive to direct touch, which sometimes even causes pain or irritation (in this sense, the foreskin has a protective function)2, and
2) during sexual intercourse, insertion of the penis into the vagina indirectly stimulates the clitoris by moving the labia minora, causing the foreskin to rub against the head of the clitoris.

Some tribes in Africa and South America practice surgical removal of the clitoris (clitoridectomy) as a ritual rite upon reaching
puberty. According to one doctor in Egypt, some young girls are still subjected to this painful procedure.

Although this operation is called "clitoral circumcision", in fact it is not that at all. Clitorectomy does not interfere with sexual arousal or orgasm,
but also does not contribute to their strengthening.

It is for this reason that most women, when masturbating, only stroke the area around the head of the clitoris, avoiding it directly.
stimulation. Apparently, proponents of clitoral circumcision (oddly enough, these are usually men) have not paid enough attention to this
circumstance.

The labia minora at their upper junction form the foreskin and frenulum of the clitoris.

In a calm state, the head of the clitoris is practically invisible under the frenulum. However, when aroused, an erection of the clitoris occurs, and this sexual organ can significantly increase in size, protruding above the frenulum. However, the degree of enlargement of the clitoris during arousal varies greatly from woman to woman. Also, it should be taken into account that the erection of the clitoris occurs much more slowly than the erection of the penis in men. It takes anywhere from 20 seconds to several minutes for the clitoris to increase in size.

The enlargement of the clitoris occurs in proportion to the degree of arousal, however, immediately before orgasm, the clitoris again decreases in size (this is one of the signs of the onset of orgasm in a woman), then swells again.

Due to the high sensitivity, this part of the woman’s genital organs should be stimulated carefully (For some women, direct stimulation of the clitoris causes negative sensations, due to the very high sensitivity of this genital organ). Basically, to excite a woman and achieve orgasm, it is enough just to lightly stroke this genital organ. In addition, you should remember that you can start caressing the clitoris only after moisturizing the genitals.

Do not forget that after orgasm, touching the clitoris causes discomfort in most women.

Vaginal vestibule

The boundary of the vestibule is the hymen or its remains, which separates the external genitalia from the internal. In front, the vestibule is limited by the clitoris, behind - by the posterior commissure, on the sides - by the labia minora. Below the clitoris is the external opening of the urethra. On the sides and below the opening of the urethra are located the excretory ducts of the large glands of the vestibule of the vagina.

Bulb vestibule

The bulb of the vestibule (bulbus vestibuli) corresponds to the bulb of the penis, but has a number of differences. The bulb is an unpaired formation consisting of two - right and left - parts, which are connected by a small intermediate part located between the clitoris and the external opening of the urethra. Each lobe is a dense venous plexus, in which the elongated lateral parts are located at the base of the labia majora; they are flattened, spindle-shaped formations, which, thickening posteriorly, cover the large glands of the vestibule with their posterior end. Outside and below, each of the halves of the bulb of the vestibule is covered with the bulbospongiosus muscle, w. bulbospongiosus. The bulb of the vestibule has a tunica albuginea enclosing a venous plexus, which is penetrated by smooth muscle fibers and connective tissue bundles.

Urethra

The urethra is 3-4 cm long, its lumen stretches to 1 cm or more. The external opening of the urethra has a round, crescent or star-shaped shape, it is located 2-3 cm below the clitoris. The entire length of the urethra is connected to the anterior wall of the vagina. Near the urethra, on both sides, there are external openings of the paraurethral passages (or skin sinuses), the length of which is 1-2 cm. These formations produce a secretion that moisturizes the area of ​​the external opening of the urethra.

Large glands of the vestibule

The large glands of the vestibule are an oblong-rounded formation the size of a bean, of dense elastic consistency, located on the border of the posterior and middle third of the labia majora. A secretion is produced in the alveoli of the glands. The excretory ducts of the large glands of the vestibule (Bartholin's glands) open from the inside of the labia minora at the level of the location of the Bartholin's glands. The secretion of the large glands in front of the door has a whitish color, an alkaline reaction, and a specific odor. It is released during sexual intercourse and helps moisturize the vagina.

Hymen

The hymen (hymen) is a whole tissue membrane covered on both sides with stratified squamous epithelium. It most often has one, sometimes several holes. With the onset of sexual activity, the hymen is torn. The hymen usually contains
holes through which blood is released during menstruation. The hymen does not completely cover the entrance to the vagina and varies in shape,
sizes and thickness.

The annular hymen surrounds the vaginal opening; the septate hymen consists of one or more strips of tissue crossing the opening
vagina; the ethmoid hymen completely covers the opening of the vagina, but there are many small holes in it; parous introitus
(the opening of the vagina of a woman who has given birth) - only the remains of the hymen are visible.

In former times, a girl entering into marriage was required to have an intact hymen, which served as evidence of her innocence.
A bride whose hymen was torn could be returned to her parents, subjected to public ridicule or bodily harm.
punishment, and in some countries even sentenced to death. These days, brides who want to hide past sexual relationships from their future husbands
connections, consult a doctor to restore the hymen using plastic surgery.

Contrary to the opinion of most women, a doctor conducting a gynecological examination cannot always tell whether the patient is a virgin.
The integrity or disruption of the hymen cannot be considered a firm sign of a woman’s past sexual behavior.
The hymen may have been torn or stretched in early childhood as a result of various exercises or the insertion of fingers or
some items. In some women, the hymen from birth covers the vaginal opening only partially or is absent altogether.
On the other hand, sexual intercourse does not always lead to rupture of the hymen; sometimes it just stretches. In most cases
The first sexual intercourse is not painful and is not accompanied by heavy bleeding. Excitement associated with the event
is usually high enough that the pressure exerted on the hymen is not sufficient to compromise its integrity.

The appearance, shape and size of the genitals vary from person to person just like other parts of the body. There is a wide range of what is considered normal. Knowing your own body and its characteristics is necessary for every person to be able to determine, if necessary, whether everything is in order there and either calm down or go to the doctor. Each genital organ is susceptible to diseases ranging from trivial to life-threatening. Each disease changes the appearance, shape, smell, and nature of the discharge.

The following description will be much clearer if you see your genitals using a hand mirror.Make sure you have enough time and no one will disturb you to feel very calm. Squat down on the floor and place a mirror between your legs.

If you feel uncomfortable in this position, sit on the edge of a chair, spread your legs and place a mirror between them. To see better, use flashlights.

External genitalia are common to all women

Vulva includes:

• pubis,
• labia majora,
• labia minora,
• clitoris,
• opening of the urethra (urethra) entrance to the vagina,
• crotch.

The external genitalia of women are characterized by pronounced individual differences in:

• size,
• color,
• form.

Pubis (Venus' tubercle) - the female sexual organ

A triangular-shaped elevation of fatty tissue that covers the pubic bone and protects the pubic symphysis. During adolescence, sex hormones cause pubic hair to grow. Hair curliness, stiffness, quantity, color and thickness vary from person to person. After menopause, hair thins or falls out completely.

The labia majora (outer lips) are the female genitals

They have darker pigmentation. Provide protection at the entrance to the vagina and urethra. The outside is covered with hair and sebaceous glands. The inner surface of the labia majora is smooth, moist, and devoid of hair.

After childbirth and with aging, they lose turgor, become lethargic, and go bald.

Labia minora (inner lips - female genital organs)

They are composed of erectile connective tissue and darken and swell upon sexual arousal. Located inside the labia majora. The labia minora are more sensitive and respond faster to touch than the labia majora. During sexual intercourse, the labia minora contract.

The clitoris is a female sexual organ

A very sensitive organ consisting of nerves, blood vessels and erectile tissue. Located under the hood. The clitoris consists of a body and a gland. During sexual stimulation, it becomes engorged with blood. The key to sexual pleasure for most women. The opening of the urethra is located directly below the clitoris.

Entrance to the vagina

It can be covered with a thin film - the hymen. Using the presence of an intact hymen to determine virginity is erroneous. Some women are born without a hymen. The hymen can be perforated by many different factors including tampons and exercise.

Internal female genital organs (not available for self-study)

The internal genital organs consist of: vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries (Fig. 2, left).

Vagina is a woman's sexual organ

The vagina connects the cervix to the external genitalia. It is located between the bladder and rectum. Functions of the vagina: canal for menstruation and uterine secretions, canal during childbirth, canal for the penis during sexual intercourse. With the help of two Bartholin's glands, the vagina maintains moisture, which increases during sexual arousal.

Vaginal walls

If you feel comfortable, slowly insert a finger or two into your vagina. If it hurts or you have problems, take a deep breath and relax, perhaps change your position. Your vagina may be dry, or you may unconsciously tense your muscles out of fear of discomfort. Using a lubricant - olive or almond oil (do not use scented oil or lotion, which may cause irritation).

Notice how the vaginal walls that touch each other wrap around your fingers. Feel the soft folds of the mucous membrane. These folds allow the vagina to change in size, to cover everything that is inside, including the fingers of the hand, a tampon, the penis, or the baby during childbirth.

The wetness of the vaginal walls can vary from almost dry to very wet. Before puberty, during breastfeeding and after menopause, as well as before and after menstruation, the vagina is drier. The vaginal walls will be more moist before ovulation, during pregnancy and during sexual arousal.

Gently press your finger on the vaginal walls and notice where the walls are more sensitive to touch.This sensitivity is localized to only one area of ​​the vagina, most of it, or the entire vagina.

G point (G) or Gräfenberg point

It is located on the front wall of the vagina, at a depth of 5-7 centimeters from the entrance. It feels like a raised spot the size of a coin. The G spot is the erogenous zone of the vagina.

The cervix is ​​a woman's reproductive organ

The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina. The cervical canal is very narrow and allows menstrual blood and semen to pass through. During childbirth, the cervix dilates and allows the fetus to pass through the birth canal.

Uterus

Commonly called WELL. A pear-shaped organ, the size of a fist WOMEN. The uterus consists of the endometrium, myometrium and perimeter. The uterine tissue is rich, enriched with blood. Every month during the menstrual cycle, the endometrium of the uterus sloughs off. The powerful muscles of the uterus expand to accommodate the growing fetus and push it through the birth canal.

The uterus changes position, color and shape throughout the menstrual cycle, as well as during puberty and menopause, so you may feel your cervix in a different place from one day to the next. After a few days, you can barely reach your throat. The vagina also lengthens slightly during sexual arousal, pushing the cervix deeper into the body.

Fallopian tubes

Serve as a path for the fertilized egg to the uterus. This is the site where the egg is fertilized by male sperm. Often referred to as oviducts or fallopian tubes. The fertilized egg travels through the Fallopian tubes to the lining of the uterus within about 6 to 10 days and is implanted there.

Ovaries - female sex glands

In them, the egg matures and is expelled every month. A woman is born with approximately 400,000 immature eggs called follicles. Over the course of a woman's life, 400 to 500 eggs mature and are ready for fertilization. Ovarian follicles synthesize female sex hormones - progesterone and estrogen. These hormones prepare the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Female genital organs are usually divided into external and internal. The external genitalia include: pubis, labia majora and minora, clitoris, hymen and perineum. The pubic region, or pubis, which rises above the pubic symphysis of the pelvic bones, is covered with hair.

The labia majora, which have a roll-like appearance, extend downwards from the pubis towards the external opening of the anus. At the bottom they form the posterior commissure, and at the top they merge with the skin of the pubis. Inside the labia majora, the labia minora are located in the form of thinner folds of skin.

In the thickness of the labia majora there are Bartholin's glands, the size of which is less than a pea. Their pinpoint openings are located on the inner surface of the labia majora at the place where they merge with the labia minora. During sexual intercourse, these glands secrete a secretion that moisturizes the entrance to the vagina.

In front, between the labia minora, below the pubis, is the clitoris, which is an organ similar to the male penis. The clitoris has a large number of blood vessels, which fill with blood during sexual intercourse, causing its size to increase. In the area 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.

Posterior to the junction of the labia majora is the perineum. The anus is located slightly posterior to it. The condition 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 been sexually active, the entrance to the vagina is closed by a membrane of mucous membrane called the hymen. The hymen has one or more holes in the middle. During the first sexual intercourse, it almost always ruptures, and during childbirth it is destroyed to one degree or another. When the hymen ruptures, depending on its thickness and the location of the vessels, bleeding that stops quickly is usually observed.

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

The vagina is an elastic tube 10-12 cm long with adjacent walls. 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 fornices. The posterior fornix is ​​usually somewhat deeper, and this has a special physiological purpose, since after sexual intercourse, seminal fluid forms in the area of ​​the posterior fornix, as it were, a seminal lake, where, in the normal location of the internal genital organs, the cervix faces. This facilitates better penetration of the male seminal thread into the cervix, which improves the conditions for conception.

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

A healthy woman always has a small amount of milky content in her vagina. Under a microscope, in a smear from the vaginal discharge, you can see a large number of exfoliated cells of the vaginal wall and a significant number of rod-like microbes. These microbes are safe and even perform a certain protective function by producing lactic acid, which prevents the development of other types of microbes that can cause genital diseases.

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

In the thickness of the uterus there is a narrow canal 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 along its entire length, forms the so-called cervical plug. This plug prevents microbes from entering the uterus from the vagina.

The body of the uterus has a triangular-shaped 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 manifest themselves externally and end in the form of menstruation. A fertilized egg is usually implanted into the uterine mucosa, where it further develops and carries to term.

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

The fallopian tubes arise from the upper part of the uterus and go to the side walls of the pelvis. The lumen of the tubes located in the thickness of the uterus is so narrow that only a bristle can pass into it. Closer to the ovaries, the tubes expand in the form of a funnel and end in fimbriae. The entire lumen of the tube is lined with a mucous membrane, which 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 released from the ovary moves from the abdominal end of the tube to the uterus. Usually, in the tube, the fusion of the egg cell with the male seminal thread - the sperm - occurs.

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

The 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 vaginal mucus, which prevents the growth of foreign microorganisms; cervical plug that protects against germs; monthly sloughing of the uterine mucosa, which carries with it the microorganisms nesting in it; an angle of the fallopian tube that prevents the passage of microbes from the uterus into the tube.

The functions of these protective barriers are usually disrupted during menstruation, during abortion and after childbirth. In these cases, if the hygiene regime is violated, microbes overcome the body's protective barriers 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 played by the fringed end of the pipe, which, reacting to the attack of microbes, sticks together, thus preventing their penetration into the abdominal cavity. If microbes take this last obstacle 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 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, thickness - about 2 cm. Using 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 wall of the pelvis. The structural features of the ovaries are clearly visible when examining them under a microscope. The ovary consists of two layers: a superficial layer, the so-called cortical layer, and a deeper layer, the medulla.

The medulla contains many blood vessels and nerves. The cortical part contains germinal (egg) cells - 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 fewer. Most of the eggs are resorbed, i.e. undergo reverse development (atresia) before puberty.

By the time a girl reaches puberty, the egg cell begins to grow and turn into special vesicles called follicles, which, depending on the degree of maturity, can be of different 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 become thinner and rupture. The released egg enters the abdominal cavity or tube.

The entire process of follicle maturation and egg release is called ovulation. It usually occurs halfway between two periods. It has been established that with 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 vesicle after the release of the egg cell, the so-called corpus luteum develops. It happens like this: a small amount of blood flows into the resulting cavity after the follicle ruptures. 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 - corpus luteum.

Full development of the corpus luteum occurs on the 13-14th day after ovulation, i.e. before menstruation. In size it usually reaches the size of a large pea. At the time of growth and development, the corpus luteum, like the follicle, releases a hormone into the blood - lutein. Thus, the follicle and the yellow case secrete hormones that enter directly into the blood and cause changes in the woman’s body that distinguish her from a man. These hormones - folliculin and lutein, influencing the entire body, prepare the uterine mucosa to receive 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 lining and the onset of menstruation. Menstruation is, according to a well-known expression among doctors, “the bloody tears of the uterus about a failed pregnancy.”

After 14-16 days, a new corpus luteum is formed from another burst follicle. This cyclical process in the ovary is usually repeated monthly, from puberty to puberty in women. In a healthy woman, menstruation stops only during pregnancy and lactation. In women without ovaries, menstruation and pregnancy do not occur. Consequently, the ovary causes changes that occur both throughout the woman’s body and in the uterus. Changes in the ovaries themselves (maturation of follicles and corpus luteum) occur under the influence of hormones from the cerebral 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 a 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.

Girls in Central Asia usually begin menstruation at the age of 13-15. However, it has been noted that in recent years the first menstruation appears a little earlier. This is explained by improved hygienic living conditions and the widespread use of sports among girls.

The appearance of menstruation does not yet mean the onset of puberty, because a girl’s body takes shape gradually and matures only at the age of 18 and 20, although in some cases a girl may take shape a little earlier. Due to the characteristics of each woman’s body, menstruation may occur in different cycles. Most often they appear after 28 days, but they can appear after 21, 24 and even 30 days, usually lasting three to five days. One way or another, the established menstrual cycle is characteristic of a given woman, and changes in this cycle usually indicate a disease of the reproductive system. 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, begin 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 the cells of the uterine lining produce a special enzyme that prevents blood clotting.

Thus, by the rhythm and duration of menstruation, by 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 would reflect 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 identify the disease at an early stage or, perhaps, even prevent it. A calendar record of menstruation is even more necessary for a woman who is sexually active, because it will also help to promptly detect her pregnancy.

With normal menstruation, women can usually carry out their usual work, avoiding only strong physical stress. Some people, before menstruation, feel general malaise, weakness, weakness, pain in the lower abdomen, in the sacral area.

Summarizing all that has been said, I would like to give our readers some advice:

at the slightest disturbance in the functions of the reproductive apparatus, consult a doctor;

Once or twice a month in the morning on an empty stomach, feel your stomach to determine if there are any lumps or tumor formations in the abdominal cavity.

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

R. S. Amanjolov