The introitus is found toward the rear of the external female genitalia (the vulva).
The introitus sits between the labia minora, behind (or below) the clitoris and urethral opening.
The hymen is a fibrous, tough sheath of tissue that surrounds the vagina.
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It naturally makes the introitus more narrow until the person has had penetrative intercourse or a vaginal birth.
Abnormal hymen conditions may cause it to cover or block the introitus.
Imperforate Hymen
Sometimes the hymen fully covers the introitus, a condition known as an imperforate hymen.
An imperforate hymen can prevent menstrual flow and force menstrual blood back into the vaginal canal.
The muscles and tissues of the introitus and vaginal canal are flexible and stretch during penetration and childbirth.
Cysts
Several types of cysts can develop in the area around the introitus.
Most cysts cause no symptoms.
Occasionally, cysts become infected, becoming red and tender and causing pain during sexual intercourse.
Large cysts may block the opening to the vaginal canal.
The presence of a strong odor usually indicates bacterial vaginosis or another infection.
Symptoms of BV include:
The causes of bacterial vaginosis are unclear.
BV increases your risk of contracting an STI and becoming infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
If you are pregnant, bacterial vaginosis raises your risk of premature birth.
BV is treated with antibiotics.
Unfortunately, BV can recur after treatment.
Vulvodynia can cause severe pain with intercourse or even after sitting for long stretches of time.
If you think you have vulvodynia, seek medical attention.
A healthcare provider can rule out alternative explanations and help treat your symptoms.
Cancer-related surgery and radiotherapy of the pelvic area are the main causes of vaginal stenosis.
Chemotherapy can worsen the condition.
Vaginal stenosis can be treated with dilators, moisturizers, and hormonal therapy.
It is most common before puberty and after menopause.
Untreated, the condition can lead to permanent scarring and difficulty with urination, defecation, and vaginal penetration.
Be sure to see a healthcare provider promptly when you have concerns.
National Vulvodynia Association.Vulvar Anatomy.
Merck Manual Consumer Version.Vulvar Inclusion and Epidermal Cysts.
Merck Manual Consumer Version.Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chlamydia.
OASH Office on Women’s Health.Pelvic Organ Prolapse.
University Health data pipe.
Patient Education.How to Manage Vaginal Stenosis.
Smith, L.Radiation-Induced Vaginal Stenosis.
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Lichen Sclerosis.
British Association of Dermatology.Lichen Sclerosis in Females.
Centers for Disease Control.Gonorrhea,
Merck Manuals Consumer Version.Vaginal Itching.
