STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061.
J Biomech Eng. 2020 Aug 1;142(8). doi: 10.1115/1.4046712.
The vagina is an important organ of the female reproductive system that has been largely understudied in the field of biomechanics. In recent years, some research has been conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of the vagina, but much has focused on characterizing the passive mechanical properties. Because vaginal contractions play a central role in sexual function, childbirth, and development and treatment of pelvic floor disorders, the active mechanical properties of the vagina must be also quantified. This review surveys and summarizes published experimental studies on the active properties of the vagina including the differences in such properties determined by anatomic regions and orientations, neural pathways, life events such as pregnancy and menopause, pelvic floor disorders such as prolapse, and surgical mesh treatment. Conflicting experimental findings are presented, illustrating the need for further research on the active properties of the vagina. However, consensus currently exists regarding the negative impact of surgical mesh on vaginal contractility. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and future research opportunities, thus proving a firm foundation for novice and experienced researchers in this emerging area of biomechanics and encouraging more activity on women's sexual and reproductive health research.
阴道是女性生殖系统的一个重要器官，在生物力学领域的研究还很不充分。近年来，已经有一些研究致力于评估阴道的力学特性，但大多集中在描述其被动力学特性上。由于阴道收缩在性功能、分娩和盆底功能障碍的发展和治疗中起着核心作用，阴道的主动力学特性也必须被量化。本综述调查并总结了已发表的关于阴道主动特性的实验研究，包括解剖区域和方向、神经通路、妊娠和绝经等生命事件、脱垂等盆底功能障碍以及网片治疗等因素对这些特性的影响。本文还呈现了相互矛盾的实验结果，说明了进一步研究阴道主动特性的必要性。然而，目前已经达成共识，即手术网片会对阴道收缩力产生负面影响。本综述还确定了知识空白和未来的研究机会，为该新兴生物力学领域的新手和经验丰富的研究人员提供了坚实的基础，并鼓励更多人关注女性性健康和生殖健康研究。
