Vulva

Vulva is the external parts of the female genitalia (lips or labia) around the opening of the vagina, according to the Menopause Society Inline content unavailable. It is located at the front of the body, between the legs, and above the anus.

What’s the difference between your vulva and vagina?

Some people use the words vulva and vagina like they mean the same thing, but they are actually different. The vulva is the outside part of your genitals that you can see. The vagina is the muscular tube inside your body that goes from the vulva up to the uterus (womb). The vagina is where your period comes out, where you can have vaginal sex, and where a baby passes through during birth. Inline content unavailable

Your vulva includes these parts:

• The clitoris and its hood (which plays a critical role in sexual pleasure)

• The outer lips (labia majora), usually covered in pubic hair

• The inner lips (labia minora)

• The opening of your urethra (where urine comes out)

• The area surrounding your vagina and urethra (vestibule)

• The vaginal opening

• The skin between your vagina and anus (perineum)

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Do all vulvas and vaginas look the same?

Every vulva looks different. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. It’s very common for one side of your vulva or inner lips to be a bit bigger or a different shape than the other. Pictures online are often edited, so don’t compare yourself to those. If you’d like to see real photos of vulvas, you can visit the Labia Library.Inline content unavailable Inline content unavailable