Reproductive System Anatomy: Complete Guide to How Genitals Work

What Are the Parts of the Female Reproductive System?

The female reproductive system consists of external parts (vulva, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vaginal opening) and internal organs (vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries). These structures enable menstruation, sexual pleasure, and reproduction. Each part has its own unique function and varies naturally in appearance from person to person.

The female reproductive system is a complex network of organs working together to enable reproduction, produce hormones, and facilitate sexual function. Understanding your anatomy helps you recognize normal variations, identify potential health concerns, and communicate effectively with healthcare providers.

Every person's genitals look unique. Size and appearance of the different parts vary considerably between individuals. The color, texture, symmetry, and even smell differ from person to person. This natural variation is completely normal and healthy, and does not indicate any medical problems.

The external female genitalia are collectively called the vulva. This includes everything visible from the outside: the mons pubis (pubic mound), labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), clitoris, vaginal opening, and urethral opening. The internal organs include the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

The Mons Pubis (Pubic Mound)

The mons pubis is the rounded area below the belly and above the outer labia. It covers the pubic bone underneath. This area can look different and protrude to varying degrees in different people. The mons pubis can be sensitive to touch and often develops pubic hair during puberty.

The Labia Majora (Outer Lips)

The labia majora, or outer lips, extend from the mons pubis and end a few centimeters in front of the anal opening. These folds of skin contain fatty tissue and become covered with pubic hair during puberty. When you become sexually aroused, the outer labia swell and become more sensitive to touch, as blood flow increases to this area.

The Labia Minora (Inner Lips)

The two inner labia are sensitive folds of skin located inside the outer lips. They have no hair and the skin appears wrinkled or textured. Inside the inner labia are erectile tissue and small blood vessels, as well as sebaceous glands and sweat glands that help maintain moisture and protect against infection.

The labia rest against each other, protecting the vagina and urethra from bacteria and debris. The size of the inner labia varies considerably between individuals. It is very common for them to be asymmetrical - almost nobody has two inner labia that look identical. The inner labia can often be larger than the outer labia and may be visible outside the outer lips. This is completely normal and does not require any medical treatment.

The Clitoris

The visible part of the clitoris sits in front of the urethral opening where the inner labia meet. However, the largest part of the clitoris is hidden under the skin, extending along both sides of the vaginal opening and urethra. The entire clitoris is approximately 10 centimeters (4 inches) long.

The clitoris enlarges when you become aroused as blood flows into its erectile tissue. For most people, stimulation of the clitoris is the easiest way to achieve orgasm. The glans (tip) of the clitoris is extremely sensitive, containing approximately 8,000 nerve endings - more than any other part of the human body.

The Vaginal Opening

The vaginal opening, sometimes called the vaginal introitus, is located between the inner labia and slightly below the urethral opening. Through the vaginal opening, menstrual blood and vaginal discharge exit the body. The vagina is also where penetrative sexual intercourse occurs and where babies are born during vaginal delivery. The vagina can stretch and expand significantly during arousal and childbirth.

The Vagina

The vagina is like a soft, flexible canal. Its walls are covered with mucous membrane containing many blood vessels. The vagina is approximately 7 to 10 centimeters (3-4 inches) deep but is highly elastic and can stretch considerably when you become aroused or during childbirth.

Inside the vagina, on the front wall toward the belly, some people notice a particularly sensitive area a few centimeters from the entrance. This is sometimes called the G-spot. However, research suggests this may be stimulation of the internal portions of the clitoris through the vaginal wall rather than a distinct anatomical structure.

When you become sexually aroused, a natural lubricating fluid is produced in the vagina. This is called lubrication. The amount varies between people and from one occasion to another. This lubrication acts as a natural lubricant to facilitate comfortable penetration.

The Ovaries and Fallopian Tubes

The ovaries contain a large number of egg cells. These cells are already present in female fetuses before birth. From puberty onwards, one egg matures each month inside a follicle (small fluid-filled sac). When the egg matures, the follicle ruptures and the egg is released - this is ovulation.

The ovaries also produce the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. They also produce testosterone, though in much smaller amounts than the testicles produce in males.

The fallopian tubes connect the uterus to the ovaries. It is in the fallopian tubes that an egg can be fertilized by sperm. When fertilization occurs, it takes approximately 3-5 days for the fertilized egg to travel through the fallopian tubes to the uterus.

The Uterus and Cervix

The uterus (womb) is approximately the size of a chicken egg when not pregnant. Each month, the lining of the uterus thickens and prepares to receive a fertilized egg. When fertilization does not occur, this lining is shed along with blood - this is menstruation. If an egg is fertilized, it implants in the uterine lining and develops into a pregnancy. During pregnancy, the uterus expands dramatically to accommodate the growing fetus.

The cervix sits at the lowest part of the uterus, extending into the top of the vagina. Part of the cervix is called the ectocervix, which can be felt at the back of the vagina. In the center of the ectocervix is a small opening through which menstrual blood flows and through which sperm travel upward to potentially fertilize an egg.

What Are the Parts of the Male Reproductive System?

The male reproductive system consists of external parts (penis, scrotum containing testicles) and internal structures (vas deferens, epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, Cowper's glands). The testicles produce sperm and testosterone, while various glands produce the fluids that make up semen. All penises and testicles vary in size, shape, and appearance.

The male reproductive system produces, stores, and transports sperm while also producing the hormone testosterone. Understanding male anatomy helps with recognizing normal variations, identifying potential health issues, and maintaining reproductive health.

All penises look different. They vary in length, thickness, curvature, and angle when erect. Different parts may have spots, hair, and different colors. This natural variation is completely normal.

The Penis Shaft

The penis consists of three erectile bodies (corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum). These are soft tissues that fill with blood during arousal. This blood filling is what causes the penis to become erect. The penis is not a muscle - you cannot exercise or stretch it like you can with muscles.

Two of the erectile bodies run along the right and left sides of the penis shaft. These are primarily responsible for creating rigidity during erection. The third erectile body lies underneath the other two, surrounding the urethra, and ends by forming the glans (head). This third body fills with blood but at lower pressure, so the urethra can remain open for ejaculation.

The penis has no subcutaneous fat, so blood vessels, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles are clearly visible. This can make the penis appear veiny and bumpy, which is normal.

The Glans (Head of the Penis)

The glans is the outermost part of the penis and is very sensitive. Touching here often feels pleasurable. During puberty, small bumps may appear around the corona (edge of the glans). These are called pearly penile papules and consist of skin cells. They are completely harmless. They don't disappear but often become less noticeable over time.

The Foreskin

The foreskin protects the glans. Sebum from sebaceous glands on the foreskin keeps the glans skin soft and protected against fungal and bacterial infections. These glands appear as small yellowish bumps. On the inside of the foreskin, this secretion is called smegma.

Because new smegma forms continuously, the old smegma should be washed away. Otherwise, bacteria can grow and cause odor. How much foreskin a penis has varies considerably. Some have abundant foreskin while others have foreskin that doesn't cover the entire glans.

Medical attention may be needed if the foreskin still cannot be retracted by ages 8-10, or if infections develop under the foreskin. Not everyone has a foreskin - in some religious or cultural traditions, the foreskin is surgically removed. This is called circumcision.

The Scrotum and Testicles

The scrotum is the skin pouch below the penis. Inside the scrotum are the testicles, epididymis, and vas deferens. It is quite common for one testicle to be larger than the other, causing the scrotum to hang slightly asymmetrically.

It is beneficial to examine your scrotum regularly to more easily detect lumps or other changes and receive medical attention promptly if needed. Testicular cancer is most common in men ages 15-35 and is highly treatable when detected early.

The testicles, sometimes called "balls," are located in the scrotum. There are two testicles, slightly oval in shape, that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is necessary for sperm production and is responsible for male secondary sex characteristics.

The testicles hang outside the body to regulate temperature. The scrotum contracts and pulls the testicles closer to the body when it's cold, and relaxes when it's warm. The temperature in the testicles must be a few degrees lower than body temperature for sperm production to function properly. Normal testicular temperature is around 34°C (93°F).

The Epididymis and Vas Deferens

The epididymis is a long, coiled tube that connects the testicles to the vas deferens. In the epididymis, sperm mature and gain the ability to swim. A sperm spends approximately three weeks in the epididymis before being expelled during ejaculation. Old sperm are continuously replaced with new ones.

The vas deferens connects the epididymis to the urethra. The urethra expels sperm during ejaculation through muscular contractions in the vas deferens.

The Prostate and Seminal Vesicles

The prostate gland consists of about thirty fused glands. It sits in the upper part of the urethra, just below the bladder. The prostate produces a fluid that is part of semen. This fluid is beneficial for sperm and their fertilizing ability.

The seminal vesicles are two glands approximately 5 centimeters long that connect to the vas deferens. They produce a secretion that is released along with sperm during ejaculation, providing nutrients for sperm.

Cowper's glands are two small glands located in the upper part of the urethra, just below the prostate. When you become sexually aroused, these glands make the urethra moist with pre-ejaculatory fluid.

Ejaculation and Sperm

Ejaculation occurs when fluid rapidly exits the penis during intercourse or masturbation. You can also have nocturnal emissions (wet dreams) while sleeping. The fluid expelled is called semen and is a mixture of various fluids. The largest portion comes from the seminal vesicles and prostate. The sperm themselves make up only a small part of the ejaculate.

The volume, color, and smell of ejaculate varies and is affected by how often you ejaculate. After 3-4 days without ejaculation, the volume is typically 2-6 milliliters (about one teaspoon) containing approximately 100 million sperm per milliliter.

Sperm are the cells needed for fertilization. Together with an egg from the female reproductive system, a sperm can create a new human being. Sperm are formed in the testicles from special cells called stem cells. It takes approximately three months for a sperm to form. Normally, about 100 million sperm are produced per day. Because stem cells continuously renew themselves, you can never run out of sperm no matter how many ejaculations you have.

How Should I Wash My Genitals?

Wash external genitals once daily with lukewarm water only. The vagina does not need internal washing - it cleans itself. Using soap can make mucous membranes dry and sensitive. For uncircumcised penises, gently retract the foreskin to clean away smegma to prevent bacterial growth and odor.

Proper genital hygiene is important for maintaining health and preventing infections. However, over-cleaning can actually cause problems. The genitals have natural protective mechanisms that maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and appropriate pH levels.

For female anatomy, it is adequate to wash the external parts of the genitals once a day with lukewarm water. The vagina does not need internal washing at all. Washing the vagina with soap, douches, or other products can disrupt the natural bacterial balance (vaginal flora), making mucous membranes dry and sensitive and potentially leading to infections.

For male anatomy, daily washing of the penis with water is sufficient. If you have a foreskin, gently retract it to wash away accumulated smegma. This prevents bacterial growth and odor. Avoid using harsh soaps that can irritate the sensitive skin of the glans.

Can I Strengthen My Pelvic Floor Muscles?

Yes, pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) strengthen the muscles in the lower pelvis. This is important for bladder control, supporting pelvic organs, and can enhance sexual pleasure. To do them, contract the muscles you would use to stop urinating, hold for several seconds, then release.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that stretch like a hammock from the pubic bone to the tailbone. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus (in those who have one). Strong pelvic floor muscles are important for controlling urination, preventing incontinence, and maintaining organ support.

Pelvic floor exercises, also called Kegel exercises, involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing these muscles. To identify your pelvic floor muscles, try to stop urination midstream - the muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles. Don't regularly practice stopping your urine flow as this can actually cause problems; this is just to identify the right muscles.

To perform pelvic floor exercises, contract your pelvic floor muscles, hold for 5-10 seconds, then release and rest for the same amount of time. Repeat 10-15 times, three times daily. These exercises can be done anywhere without anyone noticing. Both people with female and male anatomy benefit from pelvic floor exercises.

What Are Common Genital Concerns?

Common concerns include pain, itching, burning, heaviness in the pelvic area, urinary leakage, and changes in discharge. These can result from infections (like yeast infections), hormonal changes, sexual activity without adequate arousal, childbirth, or other factors. Treatment is available for most conditions.

Many people experience various types of discomfort in the genital area at some point. These can occur in relation to sex, menstruation, or everyday activities. Understanding common concerns can help you recognize when to seek medical attention.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain - during sex, urination, or at rest
• Itching - can indicate infection or skin conditions
• Burning - often related to infection or irritation
• Unusual discharge - changes in color, smell, or amount
• Heaviness or pressure - in the pelvic area
• Urinary issues - leakage, frequency, or discomfort

These symptoms can have many different causes, including:

• Yeast infections - causing itching, discharge, and irritation
• Bacterial infections - including sexually transmitted infections
• Hormonal changes - during menopause, pregnancy, or menstrual cycle
• Sexual activity without adequate arousal - causing friction and discomfort
• Skin conditions - eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis
• Previous childbirth - affecting pelvic floor and tissue integrity

Help and support are available for genital concerns. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or affect your quality of life.

When Should I See a Doctor About Reproductive Health?

See a healthcare provider if you have persistent symptoms that don't resolve on their own, including unusual discharge, pain, lumps, itching, burning, changes in menstruation, or any symptoms that concern you. For emergencies or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Regular check-ups are important for maintaining reproductive health. However, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical attention. Don't delay seeking care if something feels wrong - early detection and treatment lead to better outcomes for most conditions.

You should contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Persistent pain in the genital area
• Unusual discharge (changes in color, smell, or amount)
• Lumps, bumps, or growths
• Sores, warts, or rashes
• Itching or burning that doesn't resolve
• Pain during sexual activity
• Changes in menstrual patterns
• Difficulty urinating or painful urination
• Blood in urine or semen

For routine reproductive healthcare, consider:

• Regular cervical screening (Pap smears) starting at age 21-25
• STI testing if sexually active with new or multiple partners
• Testicular self-exams monthly to check for lumps or changes
• Prostate health discussions with your doctor after age 50