We often apply the word vagina to describe everything “downstairs”, but it is not really anatomically correct.
. vagina It is a elastic, muscular tube that combines external genital or vulva to the cervix, which is the entrance to the uterus (uterus).
Because it is barely observable from the outside, many vaginal owners wonder how long it is or should be.
Teenagers are worried, who regularly undergo maturation, asked “Dolly Doctor” – Melissa’s medical advice column wrote for over 20 years in the Dolly magazine – regardless of whether their vagina was too miniature or brief.
They often asked because inserting a tampon was complex or painful.
The vagina is an extremely adaptable part of the body, and its length can change – throughout your life, throughout a month and with hormonal changes and sexual stimulation.
Length at various stages of life
Before maturation vagina It usually measures a length of 5.5 to 8 cm.
During puberty (usually at the age of 8-13), the vaginal length not only increases, but the hormones also change the lining of the vagina.
During life between puberty and menopause, estrogen levels grow and cause that the vaginal lining thickens and softens. This makes the vagina damp and responding to stimuli, for example when stimulated.
In adulthood, the vagina is usually between 6.5 cm and 12.5 cm. It varies depending on the person and still changes at different times in our lives.
What else can change the vaginal length?
When someone has its own periodBasically, the cervix is in a lower position, which means that the vaginal channel is shorter. Then, after a month, the cervix rises up again and reaches the highest point during ovulation.
The vaginal length also changes at various reproductive stages. For example in pregnancy The cervix sits higher, which means that the vagina is longer.
On the other hand, menopauseAlong with many other effects, such as vaginal dryness, it can shorten the vaginal channel.
Pelvic organs falling out can also cause a shorter vagina. It is when The pelvic floor becomes weakened, and organs such as the womb or bulging to the vagina.
Read more: What is pelvic organs falling out and how is it treated?
There are also several very infrequent conditions that can affect the development of vagina before delivery, such as Vaginal atresiawhich may cause the vagina not to create.
What about sex?
Sex It also has a immense impact on the vaginal length.
When someone with the vagina stimulates, the vagina becomes longer and moves the cervix further from the vaginal hole, which allows sexual penetration.
Despite the lengthening of the vagina, contact with the cervix can still occur during sex, for example with a sexy toy, finger or penis. Some people will find Cervical stimulation Painful or sensitive, while for others it can be pleasant.
As you feel sex, it can also change depending on the menstrual cycle.
Remember that when you have a period, the cervix will probably be lower, so it can boost the chance of contact with the cervix during sex, especially during some sexual positions.
Touching the cervix during sex is very unlikely to cause any damage, although sometimes it can cause this with an energetic sexual intercourse bruise. Usually it is not perilous and sheales herself.
Continuous communication with a partner is crucial for checking in and seeing what is good for you.
How long is my vagina?
It may be useful to feel the length of the vagina and the position of the cervix.
For example, if you want to apply a menstrual mug over the period, some brands will have different sizes. If you have a shorter vaginal channel, a shorter or smaller mug can achieve a better fit.
However, other factors – such as age and how a strenuous period – can also affect what size is suitable for you.
To feel the position of the cervix, first wash your hands with soap and water. It is best to do it during the period when the vaginal channel is shorter.
Find a convenient position, such as sitting, squatting or bending one leg in a chair. Then put your finger in the targeted vagina and back.
The vagina seems supple and supple, while the cervix is glossy and strenuous, with a miniature divide in the center – imagine a mini donut.
If you really need to stretch to feel the cervix, you can choose a longer cup while you don’t have to put your entire finger, it’s probably a little lower and you may feel more comfortable with a smaller size.
Remember that it will give you simply a complex idea of the length of the vagina and the place of the cervix (although tomorrow may change).
Read more: Menstrual cups are safe and sound and balanced-but they can be complex for users for the first time, our novel research shows
Does the length of your vagina matter?
All our bodies are unique and there is a wide range of “normal”. In general, having a “brief” or “long” vagina has no real differences.
For example, 2009 test Women over the age of 40 were found that the vaginal length did not affect sexual activity or function.
The vagina is extremely elastic and can stretch and form to accommodate different needs before returning to the base line.
However, there are some symptoms that are worth discussing with a family doctor, such as pain during sex, difficulties in inserting tampons or menstrual mugs, or if you are worried after falling out.