Where do the urethra and vagina open within the female external genitalia?

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In the female reproductive system, both the urethra and the vagina open into the vestibule of the vagina, which is the cleft located between the labia minora.12

The anatomical arrangement of these openings is as follows:

  • Urethral opening: This is a small slit located closest to the clitoris, approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) behind it.123
  • Vaginal orifice: This is the larger opening situated immediately behind and below the urethral opening.123

The vestibule is surrounded by the labia minora and is further protected by the labia majora. Additionally, the ducts of the Bartholin’s glands open into the vestibule on each side of the vaginal orifice.12