The Vagina

The vaginal walls
Under ordinary circumstances, the vagina is a collapsed tube, i.e., more a potential than actual space. Its inner surface, like that of the mouth, hosts different kinds of organisms which live in a healthy ecological balance. This balance can be upset, however, as a result of chemical interference. For this reason, vaginal sprays and douches should be avoided. The vagina cleanses itself with its own secretions. It also possesses a special protection against infection. The vaginal walls, which lie close together, contain mucous crypts and many blood vessels, but no glands and few nerve endings. During sexual excitement, these walls secrete a watery substance which serves as a lubricant during coitus. Without such lubrication, the insertion of a penis could be painful to both the woman and the man.