The vagina is a partially collapsed tubular structure that extends from the
vestibule of the vulva to the uterus. The anterior and posterior walls are
in contact with each other except at the apex where the vagina surrounds the
ectocervix and vault-like recesses, called the fornices, separate the vagina
and cervix. The posterior fornix is deeper than the anterior. The base of
the bladder and urethra are anterior to the vagina while the rectum is posterior
to it.
The vagina is lined by non-keratizing stratified squamous epithelium, which
is hormone-responsive. Estrogens stimulate the proliferation and maturation
of the epithelium with accumulation of glycogen in the cells. Progestogens,
however, inhibit maturation of the epithelium.
Question. What clinical use is made of the presence of glycogen in
vaginal (and cervical) epithelium? (Clue: Glycogen is carbohydrate and so
is starch. How do you test for starch?)
Skip to Content
Under no circumstances should you share any material downloaded from Student Source course websites with individuals outside the class. Under no circumstances should you repost material downloaded from Student Source to other websites. Some of our pages are restricted to UVa School of Medicine users and require an Oasis account for access.