The vulva. The external genital region is known collectively as the vulva. It includes the labia, clitoris, urethra, vaginal opening and the perineum.
The Bartholin’s glands. These are two glands which live on either side of the opening of the vagina, a little towards the back. They act to lubricate the vagina, and secrete fluid into the vagina via tiny openings. A cyst may become apparent as a swelling near the vaginal opening, which may or may not be tender, depending on the presence of infection. If it becomes infected it warrants drainage, which is usually done under an anaesthetic.
The perineum. This is the name given to the area between the vagina and the anus. Deep in this area are muscles and ligaments, which are known as the pelvic floor muscles, which hold the pelvic organs in, and help control bladder and bowel function.
The cervix. The pointy end of the uterus is called the cervix. It is the gateway to the uterus, and through it pass sperm, blood and babies. The cervix is a bit like a cotton reel, and joins the vagina to the uterus. The little “core” in the middle of the cervix is called the “endocervical canal”. The lining of this canal has special cells, and it is these cells which tend to develop cancer or the cervix. Fortunately regular sampling of these cells, in “pap smears” enables doctors to pick up pre-cancerous changes, and cancer can be prevented.
The cervix is generally incredibly strong. It manages to hold one or more foetuses in the uterus, until it is time for them to come out. During labour the cervix dilates, from the diameter of a cotton reel core, to 10 centimetres. Much of the pain of labour is the pain of the cervix dilating.
Period pain is probably partly cervix-dilating pain as well as some pain from the uterus contracting.
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