10 things you should know about Vagina - If the mere mention of the word "vagina" makes you feel uncomfortable, you're not alone

If the mere mention of the word “vagina” makes you feel uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Many people share this discomfort, with some preferring alternative terms like “women’s bits.” Regardless of the terminology used, we can all agree that the vagina is a vital component of human reproduction and plays a significant role in sexual satisfaction.

However, there’s much more to the vagina than meets the eye. Here are ten things you probably didn’t know about this essential part of the female anatomy:

1. The Vagina Isn’t What You Think:

The term “vagina” specifically refers to one part of the female reproductive system, the muscular tube running from the vulva (which includes the external female genitalia like the labia and clitoris) to the cervix. It’s not a collective term for all female private parts.

2. Tampons Can’t Get Lost:

Contrary to some myths, tampons cannot get lost in the vagina. The opening at the top of the vagina is too small for a tampon to escape through. However, if a tampon gets stuck, it should be removed by a doctor to prevent complications like toxic shock syndrome.

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises Matter:

Pelvic floor exercises, or kegel exercises, aren’t just for managing urinary incontinence; they can also enhance sexual satisfaction by tightening the vagina.

4. Vaginal pH is Like Wine:

The normal pH of the vagina is less than 4.5, similar to wine. Lactobacilli, “good” bacteria, dominate the vagina and maintain a healthy pH to prevent infections.

5. Gentle Cleaning is Enough:

Avoid using scented soaps and perfumed products to clean the vagina, as they can disrupt its natural balance. The vagina is self-cleaning, with glands that secrete fluid to maintain cleanliness.

6. Diet Affects Scent:

The foods you eat can influence the scent of your vaginal area. Strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic can affect your vaginal odor. Pineapple is believed to give a sweeter scent.

7. The Clitoris is Highly Sensitive:

The clitoris is packed with around 8,000 nerve endings, making it incredibly sensitive and a key contributor to sexual pleasure.

8. Vaginal “Queefing” is Normal:

The release of air from the vagina, colloquially known as “queefing,” is simply trapped air escaping the vaginal canal. It’s not akin to flatulence in terms of waste gases or odor.

9. Vaginal Lubricant and Sharks:

Vaginal lubricant contains squalene, a compound also found in shark livers. Squalene is used in various cosmetic products.

10. It’s Not Just About the G-spot:

There’s more to sexual pleasure than the G-spot. The A-spot, or anterior fornix erogenous zone, located deep inside the vagina, can lead to arousal and orgasm when stimulated.