Do you remember how last time we talked about the difference between the vulva and the vagina?
Now it’s time to go a little deeper (figuratively speaking 😁) and explore all the wonderful details that make the vulva so unique. Because honestly — when was the last time you really explored your own body?
If the answer is never, we get it. Information about female anatomy has always been limited, and let’s be honest — society hasn’t exactly helped. So let’s change that together.
So, what exactly is the vulva?
In the previous article, we explained that the vulva is not the same thing as the vagina. The vulva refers to all the external parts, while the vagina is the internal canal. Here’s a simple guide to naming the individual parts correctly:
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Mons pubis
The soft, padded area above the pubic bone. It may be hairy or hair-free — both are completely fine. Its shape and size change throughout life, which is entirely normal.
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Labia majora (outer labia)
These folds extend from the mons pubis down toward the perineum. They can be smooth or wrinkled, larger or smaller, symmetrical or asymmetrical. In short — everyone has their own original.
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Labia minora (inner labia)
Located inside the outer labia and free of hair. They’re extremely delicate and sensitive, and during arousal they may swell slightly. Shape and size? As diverse as it gets.
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Clitoris
The queen of pleasure. The clitoris contains over 8,000 nerve endings and exists for one reason only: pleasure. What you can see is just the tip of the iceberg — most of the clitoris is internal. And yes, every clitoris looks a little different. We’ll explore its anatomy in more depth in future articles.
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Vestibule
The area between the inner labia that houses the urethral opening and the vaginal opening. Think of it as a diamond-shaped space that deserves care and attention.
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Perineum
The strip of skin between the vaginal opening and the anus. Often overlooked, but sensitive and important.
The vulva and the myth of “normal”
We often hear that a vulva should look a certain way — have a specific size or color, be odorless, hair-free, discharge-free, and perfectly symmetrical.
But here’s the truth: there is no such thing as a “normal” vulva.
It’s completely natural for vulvas to have their own scent, discharge, hair, and to be darker in color — or become darker with age. Labia can be larger, asymmetrical, or hang lower — and all of that is normal.
In reality, the range of what’s considered “normal” is far wider than most of us realize. Research by Women’s Health Victoria shows that nearly a quarter of people aged 18–24 feel insecure or embarrassed about how their vulva looks. One in ten has even considered or undergone labiaplasty.
One way to let go of these unnecessary worries is to truly see the diversity of vulvas. If you’re curious, take a look at photographs of real vulvas — you’ll quickly see just how many different shapes and forms exist.
Why knowing your anatomy matters
When you understand your body, you gain agency over it. You’re able to:
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Notice changes that aren’t typical for you
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Communicate more clearly with healthcare professionals
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Feel more comfortable and confident in your body and your sexuality
How to explore your own vulva
It’s simple: grab a mirror and take a look.
Explore how it looks, its colors, shapes, and textures. Every part is unique — just like you. This isn’t just an anatomy lesson. It’s also an act of self-care and self-respect.
The Labia Library offers a clear, accessible vulva diagram that can help you better understand your body and how to care for it.
Let’s talk about it openly
All vulvas are beautiful and deserve respect. By speaking openly about anatomy, we help dismantle myths and stigma. Because the first step toward loving your body is understanding it.
