Female Genital Anatomy

What is Female Genital Anatomy?

The female genital system anatomy is divided into two parts: the internal and external genital areas. The external genital system allows the passage of sperm for reproduction while preventing the passage of infections to the uterine internal channels. The internal genital system consists of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes on both sides.

Internal Genital System

The internal genital system: The cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are part of the internal genital system.

Uterus: The uterus is the site where the embryo implants and grows. Structurally, it is about 5-6 cm in adult women. During pregnancy, its size and blood flow increase. It returns to its previous size about 40 days after childbirth and completely regains its original form after three months. Structural deficiencies or septums in the uterus may lead to premature birth or infertility. Additionally, conditions like fibroids or polyps that are not congenital but develop over time can cause both infertility and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Fallopian Tubes (Tuba Uterine): These are narrow, long structures that connect the ovaries to the uterus on both sides. There is one on each side. They are the most commonly affected anatomical area by infection and may also be structurally absent. The fallopian tubes have the important task of capturing eggs and guiding them to the uterus through the movement of cellular cilia. A decrease in this ciliary activity can lead to ectopic pregnancy, and complete blockage of the tubes can result in infertility.

Ovaries: The ovarian capacity, i.e., the ability to fertilize, is genetically determined during the embryonic stage. In other words, the number of eggs a girl will have is determined while she is still an embryo. After birth, this number cannot be increased by any treatment. The ovaries are soft, 2-3 cm organs located beside the uterus, connected by the fallopian tubes, and shaped like little wings.

External Genital Organs

External Genital Organs: The vagina, vulva (internal and external labia),clitoris, and mons pubis are the external genital organs. These are formed by the fusion of the two external genital areas during the embryonic stage.

Vagina: The vagina is typically 8-9 cm long, covered with pink mucosa, and surrounded by pelvic bones. It connects the cervix and uterus to the external area. Its opening makes it vulnerable to infections, and after childbirth, it may lead to tears, widening, or sagging. As a natural cavity, many gynecological surgeries are performed through the vaginal space instead of abdominal incisions, making them more comfortable. Vaginal procedures for prolapse, narrowing, hysterectomy, and urinary incontinence are also performed.

Vulva (Inner Labia): Known as the labium minus, the inner labia are usually about 3-4 cm long, though their size varies from person to person. The structure of the inner labia depends entirely on the individual's body. Their color can darken due to hormonal changes or exposure to epilation. The inner labia protect the vaginal mucosa from external factors and reduce pain during sexual intercourse. However, if they are asymmetric or too large, they can cause both visual and functional issues during intercourse or movement.

Outer Labia (Labia Majora): The outer labia are the fatty tissue areas surrounding the mons pubis, visible from the outside. A lack of fatty tissue in the labia majora can cause visual problems and pain during intercourse, especially if the pubis is not supported. Fat tissue or filler injections can be used for correction, which is usually a painless procedure.

Clitoris: Embryologically, the clitoris is the equivalent of the penis. In female embryos, due to the absence of testosterone, the structure that would have developed into a penis does not grow and remains as the clitoris. The clitoris has a foreskin, which connects to the inner labia. This area should be carefully considered during labioplasty procedures. The clitoris is the anatomical area where female orgasm occurs, so incisions made directly on it can cause pain during intercourse. Therefore, correction of the clitoral foreskin should be done from the lateral areas.