Vagina

“Your vagina is inside your body.
It extends from your vulva to the start of your uterus.
It’s where your period flows down from the uterus…”.1

Umbrella

What may the Vagina Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Vagina
  • Vulvovaginal
  • “Down Below/There”
  • “Lady Parts”
  • “Private Parts”
  • “Privates”
  • “Things That Go Wrong Down There”
  • “Women’s Bits”

Vulva and Vagina

What is the difference between the vulva and the vagina?

In About the Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? [+ Image] the (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health JH explain:

“Some people think the vulva is the vagina, but they are different. Your vulva is the external part of the female genitals that you can see. Your vagina is inside your body. It extends from your vulva to the start of your uterus. It’s where your period flows down from the uterus, where you can have vaginal sex and where babies pass through during childbirth”.2

Definition

What is the vagina?

DotS the definition of the vagina may vary. The (United States) MedlinePlus’ definition is:

“The vagina is the female body part that connects the womb (uterus) and cervix to the outside of the body”.3

In Vagina: Information the MedlinePlus also explain:

“The vagina is a muscular tube lined with mucous membranes. Its opening is between the urethra (where urine leaves the body) and the anus (where stool leaves the body).

Menstrual blood leaves the body through the vagina. The vagina also allows for sexual intercourse, and it is the passageway a baby goes through when it is born”.4 

Diagram

Where may I find a diagram of the vagina?

Your Country’s Women’s Health website may include a topic similar to the (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health (JH) topic which includes a diagram:

Symptoms of Vaginal Conditions

What are symptoms of vaginal conditions?

In Vagina: Conditions and Disorders – Symptoms of Vaginal Conditions the (United States) Cleveland Clinic include:

“Vaginal conditions cause a range of symptoms. They vary based on the type. Common symptoms include:

  • Burning sensation when you pee (dysuria)
  • Changes in the amount or color of vaginal discharge
  • Irregular vaginal bleeding or heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Itching, burning or sore vagina or vulva
  • Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Vaginal discharge that smells fishy
  • Vaginal discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese

You should see a healthcare provider or a gynecologist if you have these symptoms”.5

Vaginitis

What is vaginitis?

DotS the definition of vaginitis may vary. MedlinePlus’ definition is:

“Inflammation of the vagina is known as vaginitis”.6

Menopause Symptoms

What vaginal symptoms can menopause cause?

In Symptoms of Menopause: Bladder, Vaginal and Vulval Problems the JH explain:

Vagina“As you move into perimenopause and menopause, low oestrogen levels change your vulval, vaginal and bladder tissues. These changes may affect up to half of postmenopausal women”.7

Vulvovaginal Atrophy

What are vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms?

In Vulvovaginal Atrophy the European Menopause and Andropause Society note:

“Symptoms include:

  • Irritation
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Chafing
  • Discomfort
  • Uncomfortable or even painful intercourse
  • Passing urine more frequently
  • More frequent urinary tract infections
  • Greater discomfort with cervical smear tests”.8

In Vulvovaginal Atrophy: Symptoms of Vulvovaginal Atrophy the JH explain:

“Symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy include:

  • Dry vagina
  • Reduced vaginal lubrication during sex
  • Burning and itching in the vagina
  • Vulval irritation, especially when wearing tight pants or Lycra
  • Smelly vaginal discharge (sometimes mistaken for thrush)
  • Shortening and tightening of the vagina
  • Pale and thin labia (lips) and vagina
  • Reduced pubic hair
  • Spotting or light bleeding, including after sex – if this happens, see your doctor straight away”.9

Smell

After menopause may vaginal smell change?

In About the Vulva and Vagina: Are all Vulvas and Vaginas the Same? Smell [+ Image] the JH elaborate on:

“It’s normal for your vulva and vagina to have a different smell at certain times during your menstrual cycle, and after menopause”.10

Vaginal Health

What can women do to keep their vagina healthy?

In Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not – What Can I Do To Keep My Vagina Healthy? the (United States) Mayo Clinic elaborate on:

“You can take steps to protect your vaginal health and overall health. Try the following:

  • Have safer sex…
  • Get vaccinated…
  • Do Kegel exercises…
  • Know your medicines…
  • Limit the amount of alcohol you drink and don’t smoke…
  • Be gently”.11

Health Care Provider

What if I am unsure about what is going on down there?

If you are unsure about what is going on down there, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

On page two in Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause the (United States ) Menopause Society (formerly the North American Menopause Society) explain:

“Vaginal and vulvar symptoms not related to menopause include yeast infections, allergic reactions, and certain skin conditions, so consult your healthcare professional if symptoms do not improve with treatment”.12

The JH also note:

“If you are worried about the smell, or have symptoms, see your doctor”.13

The Mayo Clinic explain:

“Talk with a member of your health care team if you have:

  • A change in the color, odor or amount of vaginal discharge
  • Changes in vaginal skin colour or itching
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause
  • A mass or bulge in the vagina
  • Pain during sex or trouble having sex”.14

The Mayo Clinic also note:

“You can’t prevent all vaginal issues. But having regular checkups can help make sure that issues of the vagina are diagnosed as soon as possible. It’s important to talk openly with your healthcare professional about vaginal health”.15

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Vagina?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Vagina?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 9 Tips To Keep Your Vagina and Vulva Healthy
  2. A Guide To Vulval Self-Checks [+ Video]
  3. Are Probiotics Good for Vaginal Health?
  4. Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society: Patient Information
  5. Bacterial Vaginosis
  6. Bacterial Vaginosis
  7. Boxers, Briefs and Bacterial Vaginosis: How Your Underwear Can Affect Your Health
  8. Caredownthere.com.au
  9. Coconut Oil As A Lube: Is It Safe and Can You Use It?
  10. Consumer Video and Podcast Series: 2024 Consumer Videos and Podcasts – Preparing for Your Menopause Health Care Visit
  11. Essential Information: See Your Doctor If
  12. Experiencing Vaginal Dryness? Here’s What You Need To Know
  13. FAQs: Vaginal Rejuvenation, Labiaplasty, and Other Female Genital Cosmetic Surgery
  14. FAQs: Vulvovaginal Health
  15. FDA Expert Panel on Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
  16. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
  17. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
  18. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
  19. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause and the False Promise of Vaginal Laser Therapy
  20. Gyn Care 101: What To Know About Seeing A Gynecologist
  21. Hormonal Health – Clues Made Clear
  22. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  23. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Vaginal Oestrogen
  24. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Vaginal Oestrogen: About Vaginal Oestrogen
  25. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Vaginal Oestrogen: Common Questions About Vaginal Oestrogen
  26. How To Talk To Your Doctor About Painful Sex
    Vagina
  27. International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases: Patient Handouts
  28. International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health: Find A Provider
  29. Joint Position Statement By the British Menopause Society, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Society for Endocrinology on Best Practice Recommendations for the Care of Women Experiencing the Menopause
  30. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Sexual Wellbeing, Intimacy and Menopause [+ Video: Menopause Is the End of Your Sex Life] [Other Languages and Formats]
  31. Lubricant Alternatives: What To Use and What To Avoid
  32. Mayo Clinic Minute: Reducing the Risks of Sexually Transmitted Infections [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  33. VaginaMenopause Checklist Podcast: Episode 6: Hello Lubricant!
  34. Menopause Ruining Your Sex Life?
  35. Navigating Menopause Together: How Partners Can Help
  36. Pain Down There? 9 Reasons Your Vagina Hurts
  37. Pelvic Exam
  38. Pelvic Floor Health | Dr Louise Newson LIVE
  39. Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Bleeding
  40. Position Statement for Management of Genitourinary Syndrome of the Menopause (GSM)
  41. Prosayla Supported by ISSWSH [International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health]
  42. Q&A: Normalize Seeking Proper bacterial Vaginosis Diagnosis, Treatment
  43. Sexual Difficulties In The Menopause
  44. Sexual Problems and Menopause
  45. Sexual Problems and the Menopause
  46. Sexually Transmitted Infections
  47. Supporting A Loved One Through Menopause
  48. Symptoms of Menopause
  49. The Health Issues We Don’t Like To Discuss
  50. The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
  51. The Vaginal Laser Therapy Versus Vaginal Estrogen Therapy: The VeLVET Trial
  52. The Vulva & Vagina Explained: Sex Ed #2 [April 2025]
  53. Tips for Checking Your Vulva: What You Should Be Looking For
    Vulva
  54. Tips for Tracking Your Bleeding
  55. Understanding Gyn Cancers
  56. Vagina
  57. Vagina
  58. Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not
  59. Vaginal Atrophy
  60. Vaginal Atrophy
  61. Vaginal Bleeding
  62. Vaginal Cancer
  63. Vaginal Cancer
  64. Vaginal Cancer [+ Image]
  65. Vaginal Cancers
  66. Vaginal Discharge
  67. Vaginal Diseases – Multiply Languages
  68. Vaginal Dryness
  69. Vaginal Dryness
  70. Vaginal Dryness
  71. Vaginal Dryness After Menopause: How To Treat It?
  72. Vaginal Dryness Alternative Treatments
  73. Vaginal Dryness: What To Do About It
  74. Vaginal Odor
  75. Vaginal Prolapse
  76. Vaginal and Vulval Pain: Know the Different Causes and When To Seek Help
  77. Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers
  78. Vaginitis
  79. Vaginitis
  80. Videos & Podcasts: Videos – Menopause and Hormone Therapy: Current Perspectives and Controversies
  81. Videos & Podcasts: Videos – Vulvar Diseases, Overview for Aging Women
  82. Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Vulvovaginal Atrophy
  83. Vulva and Vagina
  84. Vulval Self-Checks: How To Get To Know Your Vulva and Why You Should
  85. Vulval and Vaginal Conditions
  86. Vulvovaginal Atrophy
  87. Vulvovaginal Atrophy
  88. Vulval and Vaginal Thrush
  89. Webinars: Previous – Abnormal Uterine Bleeding In Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women
  90. Webinars: Previous – Pay Attention on Your Way In! The Vulva Is An Important Organ Too
  91. Webinars: Previous – The Burn, the Itch, the Pain, the Urge: GSM In Women [15 April 2025]
  92. Well-Woman Exams: Who Needs Them and What To Expect
  93. What Happens To Your Vagina As You Age?
  94. What Is Vaginal Steaming and Is It Safe?
  95. What Types of Vaginal Oestrogens Are There?
  96. What’s Normal: What Is Normal Vulval & Vaginal Anatomy?
  97. Which Vaginal Moisturiser Should You Use?
  98. Why You Do Not Ever Need To Douche
  99. World GO Day [World Gynecologic Oncology Day, 20 September 2025]Vulva
  100. World Menopause Day 2024: Leaflet for Women – Menopause and Menopause Hormone Therapy [Multiply Languages]

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. About the Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? Last Updated: 06 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 02 June 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/about-the-vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 07 August 2025
  2. About the Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? Last Updated: 06 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 02 June 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/about-the-vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 07 August 2025
  3. Vagina. Review Date: 01 November 2023. MedlinePlus https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002342.htm Accessed: 07 August 2025
  4. Vagina: Information. Review Date: 01 November 2023. MedlinePlus https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002342.htm Accessed: 07 August 2025
  5. Vagina: Symptoms of Vaginal Conditions – Conditions and Disorders. Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22469-vagina Accessed: 07 August 2025
  6. Vagina: Information. Review Date: 01 November 2023. MedlinePlus https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002342.htm Accessed: 07 August 2025
  7. Symptoms of Menopause: Bladder, Vaginal and Vulval Problems. Last Updated: 06 May 2025 | Last Reviewed: 23 April 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/menopause-symptoms Accessed: 07 August 2025
  8. Vulvovaginal Atrophy: Symptoms of Vulvovaginal Atrophy. Last Updated: 17 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 02 June 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulval-vaginal-conditions/vaginal-atrophy Accessed: 07 August 2025
  9. Vulvovaginal Atrophy. 2022. European Menopause and Andropause Society https://emas-online.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Vulvovaginal-atrophy.pdf Accessed: 07 August 2025
  10. About the Vulva and Vagina: Are All Vaginas and Vulvas the Same? Smell. Last Updated: 06 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 02 June 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/about-the-vulva-and-vagina#vulval-care Accessed: 07 August 2025
  11. Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not – What Can I Do To Keep My Vagina Healthy? 30 January 2025. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/vagina/art-20046562 Accessed: 07 August 2025
  12. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause. 2025:2. Menopause Society https://menopause.org/wp-content/uploads/for-women/MenoNote-GSM.pdf Accessed: 07 August 2025
  13. About the Vulva and Vagina: Are All Vaginas and Vulvas the Same? Smell. Last Updated: 06 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 02 June 2025. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/about-the-vulva-and-vagina#vulval-care Accessed: 07 August 2025
  14. Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not – What Are Symptoms of Vaginal Issues? 30 January 2025. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/vagina/art-20046562 Accessed: 07 August 2025
  15. Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not – What Can I Do To Keep My Vagina Healthy? 30 January 2025. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/vagina/art-20046562 Accessed: 07 August 2025
Topic Last Updated: 07 August 2025 – Topic Last Reviewed: 07 March 2025

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
/by