What is the lower part of the birth canal called?

The lower part of the birth canal is correctly identified as the vagina. The vagina serves as the passage through which a baby is delivered during childbirth. It is part of the female reproductive system and extends from the cervix at the top to the external genitalia at the bottom.

The uterus, while important for housing and nourishing the developing fetus during pregnancy, is located above the cervix and not considered part of the birth canal itself. The cervix is the narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, acting as a gateway between the uterus and the vagina but is not the canal used during delivery. The amniotic sac is a membrane that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy, providing cushioning and protection, but does not play a role as part of the birth canal. Thus, understanding the anatomy of the female reproductive system clarifies the significance of the vagina in the context of childbearing.