Couldn't a woman get down it? (7)
I believe the answer is:
manhole
But I can't explain it at all! Could you help me understand?
(Other definitions for manhole that I've seen before include "Access chamber to sewer or drain" , "Opening with a cover giving access underground" , "Underground access point" , "Access opening in floor or pavement" , "Aperture to sewer, duct etc" .)