As a part of our attempt to explore, love, and understand ourselves better, we must look closer at our anatomy and explore our bodies. It’s important to learn better and dig deeper into our reproductive system to ensure better sexual, mental, and physical health. Also, understand the various roles that each of these parts plays.  

Let’s clear up some facts! 

The common mistake we all make is that we call the part between our legs, the vagina. Sure, the vaginal opening is down there but the external female genitalia is actually called the vulva. 

What’s a vulva? It is the external part and consists of the labia minora, labia majora, vaginal opening, clitoris, urethral opening (pee hole), and various glands. 

What’s a vagina? It is a passage, a muscular canal between the vulva and the cervix. The vaginal opening is present on the vulva, and the rest of the vagina is internal. This is where menstrual blood and babies exit from. Moreover, this is where you insert your fingers, sex toy, or penis during sexual intercourse. 

Time to dig deep…..

Anatomy of the vulva 

Labia: The folds of skin around the vaginal opening that start from the clitoris and end at the vaginal opening. 

Clitoris: Present at the top of the vulva and covered by the clitoral hood, it is the erogenous zone made up of various nerve endings. 

Urethral Opening: Located below the clitoris, it is the hole from which you pee. 

Vaginal Opening: This is the opening from where menstrual blood flows, babies are born, and penetration is done. 

Anatomy of the vagina 

Vaginal opening: Also known as a vaginal vestibule, it is located between the urethra and anus and is the opening to the vagina. It’s used for childbirth, menstruation, and sexual pleasure. 

Vaginal wall: It’s made up of muscles covered by mucus membranes. During sexual intercourse, the pleats of extra tissues on the wall help the vagina expand during penetration and childbirth. Also, this is the wall that is shed during menstruation. 

Hymen: It is a thin membrane, a fleshy tissue that’s present at the opening of the vaginal opening. They range in size and shape. Often, they already have opened large enough for menstrual blood to pass. Some people are born with negligible hymen tissue and only in very rare cases hymen covers the entire opening. 

Also, let’s not forget about the vaginal fluids. It is an extremely normal occurrence that vulva owners experience. It could range from white to clear and can occur at different frequencies. These fluids are largely affected by the menstrual cycle. If you notice any changes in the colour from your regular discharge or some discomfort, we urge you to consult a gynaecologist for a diagnosis. 

Overall, having a clear understanding of your vulva and its anatomy can help keep you healthy down there and improve sexual experiences. Also, remember to never attach any shame with discussing health issues relating to your vulva or vagina. Make sure you discuss them with the right experts to take better care of your sexual and reproductive health. 

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