Viva La Vulva: An Anatomy Lesson
I get it. Vagina is way more fun to say. In my opinion, the word vulva doesn’t really roll off the tongue in the same way as vagina.
Which is why I understand how so many people often say vagina, when they should be saying vulva. In fact a survey done in the UK in 2019 found that out of 2000 adults only 41% of men* and 55% of women* were able to label the vagina accurately on a model! And in a different survey done in 2014, it was found that out of 1000 women* 65% of those surveyed reported that they had a problem using the words vulva or vagina. As I have discussed, America’s lack of Sex Education is a problem, and this was seen in a study where out of 236 college students 80% of men and 62% of women in the study were unable to locate the vagina correctly. If you are shocked or you think you might be someone who is saying the wrong word, read on.
The vulva is the external part of the female genitalia. It encompasses several structures, including the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, introitus, and the vestibule. Let's break down these components to understand the vulva better:
Mons Pubis: The mons pubis is the area located above the pubic bone. It provides some cushioning and protection to the underlying structures.
Labia Majora: This is the outer portion of the vulva and it covers and protects the parts underneath. The labia majora is made of the same skin as the legs. It is usually covered in pubic hair which serves as a protective barrier.
Labia Minora: The labia minora are within the labia majora, more at the midline, but they are made of a different type of tissue so they won’t have pubic hair. They enclose the clitoris and the vaginal opening, protecting these sensitive areas.
Clitoris: The clitoris is a highly sensitive organ that plays a crucial role in sexual pleasure. It’s actually a larger structure than what you can visualize, which is called the glans. The rest of the clitoris is inside the body. The clitoris is analogous to the penis and can become erect during arousal.
Vestibule: The vestibule contains the opening to the urethra and the vaginal opening. The borders of the vulva vestibule are formed from the edge of the labia minora but the vestibule is made of a different type of tissue and the area where this tissue change occurs is called Hart’s Line.
Introitus (Vaginal Opening): This is where the vulva meets the vagina. It is the entrance to the vaginal canal.
Then we have the vagina, which is the internal canal that connects the introitus to the cervix, which is the start of the uterus. It plays a role in menstruation, sexual and reproductive function.
If you need help, just remember that the vagINa is INside whereas the vUlva is what ‘U’ can see on the outside.
At the end of the day, I believe that it is essential to promote accurate information and open discussions about anatomy. Understanding one’s body is not only empowering, but can provide health benefits. One study found that teaching girls about their vagina and anatomy was advantageous. While this information may seem simple, it may allow someone to take care of their bodies, communicate their needs, and enjoy healthy, fulfilling sexual experiences.
*men and women were the terms used in the studies reference. I recognize that many people with a vulva may not identify as women and many people with a penis may not identify as men.