Health Encyclopedia

Vagina

Vagina

A woman's vagina, also called the birth canal, is part of the reproductive tract and extends from the 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.

Last Revised: July 27, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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