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of the Vagina
Jump to Anatomy of Vagina
Jump to Nerves of Vagina and Pelvis
Jump to Blood Supply of Vagina
Jump to Developmental Anomalies
Jump to The Protective Vaginal Environment
Jump to Vaginal and Vulvar Fluids
Jump to Normal Vaginal and Vulvar Fluids (Photographs)
Jump to Sensitivity to Sexual Stimulation
Go to How to Sexually Stimulate
the Vagina
The vagina doesn't share the same nervous system throughout, as indicated in the following illustrations. The outer one-third of the vagina is part of the somatic nervous system while the inner two-thirds is part of the autonomic nervous system, and there is a region where the two nervous systems are intermixed. This means the outer vagina is sensitive to the full range of sensations, but the inner vagina is sensitive primarily to pressure and pain. The most complex area of innervation is likely that of the female prostate, as the nerves for the vagina, prostate, and urethra are potentially intermingled, but at a minimum are in very close proximity. This is perhaps why 63 percent of women have indicated the front wall of their vagina is the most sensitive to stimulation. Childbirth, pelvic surgery, and trauma to the clitoris and vulva may adversely affect sexual sensitivity and sensation.
The area highlighted in tan (vulva, anus, outer vagina) is supplied by the somatic nervous system, the areas highlighted in green and yellow (internal organs) are part of the autonomic nervous system.
The vaginal nerves indicated in green are sensitive to the full range of sensation, those in orange are primarily sensitive to pressure and pain. The location of diseases and injuries affecting the nervous system will determine which organs retain sensitivity, and the type of sensations possible in those areas, though individual experiences do vary.
The blood supply to the vagina, pelvic organs, and vulva is extremely important to female sexual arousal and pleasure. Without adequate blood flow vaginal lubrication may be insufficient and vaginal and vulvar sensitivity decreased. All forms of vascular disease, including cardiovascular disease, are likely to adversely influence female sexual function. Pelvic surgery, including hysterectomy, may alter blood flow to the pelvic and sexual organs. Good general health is essential to good sexual health and performance.
