The vagina is an elastic, muscular canal with a soft, flexible lining that provides lubrication and sensation. The hymen is a thin membrane of tissue that surrounds and narrows the vaginal opening. It may be torn or ruptured by sexual activity or by exercise.

The vulva and labia form the entrance of the vagina and the cervix of the uterus protrudes into the vagina, forming the interior end. The vulva is in contact with the outside world and covered by a skin that is far more delicate than the skin on other parts of the body. It has many sweat glands. It also has specialised secretory glands called the Bartholin’s gland and the Skene’s gland.

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