The vaginaThe muscular canal connecting the uterus to the external genitalia. is a fibromuscular tube that serves as the passageway between the uterusThe muscular organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops. and the external genitalia. Histologically, it is lined by a non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which provides protection against friction and potential pathogens. Notably, the vaginal epithelium responds to estrogen by accumulating glycogenA storage form of glucose found in animals., which is metabolized by resident bacteria (primarily Lactobacillus) into lactic acidA substance that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) in solution.. This process maintains the acidicA solution with a pH below 7, having a higher concentration of H⁺ ions. pHA measure of hydrogen ion concentration in a solution. of the vaginal environment, helping to prevent infections.
The deeper layers of the vaginal wall include a muscularis layer, composed of inner circular and outer longitudinal layers of smooth muscle that allow for distensibility during intercourse and childbirth. The outermost layer is the adventitiaThe outermost connective tissue layer of an organ, such as the esophagus, which binds it to surround, a connective tissue layer that anchors the vagina to surrounding pelvic structures and contains additional blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves.
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Epididymis
Accessory Glands
Seminiferous tubules
Penis
Vas Deferens
Vagina
Cervix
Uterine Tubules
Uterus
Ovary
Oocytes
Corpora (luteum and albicans)
List of terms
- vagina
- uterus
- glycogen
- acid
- acidic
- pH
- adventitia