Vaginal rugae

Vaginal rugae are a series of ridges produced by folding of the wall of the vagina. These transverse epithelial ridges provide the vagina with increased surface area for extension and stretching, a function that is particularly important during sexual intercourse and childbirth.

Anatomy

The vaginal rugae are most prominent in the lower third of the vagina, which is the area that undergoes the greatest expansion during sexual intercourse and childbirth. They are less prominent in the upper two-thirds of the vagina, which is more rigid due to its attachment to the pelvic floor.

The rugae are formed by the folding of the vaginal epithelium, the layer of cells that line the vagina. This epithelium is composed of multiple layers of squamous cells, which are flat and scale-like. The epithelium is supported by a layer of connective tissue known as the lamina propria, which contains blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves.

Function

The primary function of the vaginal rugae is to provide the vagina with increased surface area for extension and stretching. This allows the vagina to accommodate the penis during sexual intercourse and the baby's head during childbirth.

The rugae also play a role in sexual arousal. During sexual arousal, the vaginal walls become engorged with blood, causing the rugae to become more pronounced. This can increase sexual pleasure by creating additional friction during intercourse.

Clinical significance

Changes in the appearance of the vaginal rugae can be a sign of certain medical conditions. For example, the rugae may become less prominent or disappear entirely in women who have gone through menopause, due to decreased levels of the hormone estrogen. This can lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Conversely, the rugae may become more prominent in conditions that cause increased blood flow to the vagina, such as vaginitis or pelvic inflammatory disease.