featured What do you think is the best way to open up the topic of vulva conversations? Do you think it’s best done from woman to woman?
I don’t think there is a “best” way to open up. For a lot of people, starting this conversation would most likely feel awkward and uncomfortable – which is completely normal when it’s something we’re not used to talking about! Here are a few suggestions that you can try to bring this topic up: Share! If you come across an article, video,...
The vagina has been known to be self-cleaning and also has a very specific PH-range that is required to prevent infections and other issues. Is it true that the Vulva is self-cleaning with a specific pH range too?
The vulva requires care to stay healthy. Keeping the vulva clean and dry is generally enough. However, do not douche, powder or use feminine sprays. Rinse the vulva, if necessary, with a perineal irrigation bottle, and dry the area by gentle patting rather than hair dryers. If there is mild vulva discomfort, soaking in warm water and using an emollient may be...
Can hormonal changes in your body affect the health of the vulva (i.e. Menopause / pregnancy etc.)?
At puberty, fatty tissues deposit around the vulva increasing the size of the labia majora and mon pubis. In some girls, the pink labia minora may become darker. Pubic hair also starts to appear around this time. The vulva then remains similar until pregnancy. During pregnancy, the vulva can become engorged and varicosities are common. Pigmentation of the vulva, as with other...
Is the skin of the Vulva the same as the skin of the rest of the body or is it more sensitive in comparison?
The skin of the labia majora and the perineum are covered with skin just like on the rest of the body. In contrast, the labia minora are lined with a mucous membrane, whose surface is kept moist by fluid secreted by specialised cells. The area is often moist from normal vaginal discharge, sweating and in some women, incontinence. The combination of being...
I’ve always thought that the vagina and the vulva refer to the same area. Can you explain the anatomical difference between the two body parts and what is the specific function of the Vulva?
The vagina refers to the elastic muscular tube extending from the external genitals to the neck of the womb (cervix). It is a reproductive conduit connecting the external environment to the internal genitalia. During sexual intercourse, it receives the penis and allows the sperm to swim up into the womb. Conversely, it allows blood flow to be expelled from the womb during...
What are the specific functions of the clitoris, labia majora and labia minora?
The clitoris can be aroused and erect when sexually stimulated. This stimulation of the clitoris can cumulate into an orgasm.The fleshy padded tissue of the labia majora protect the other external genital organs. They also contain sweat and sebaceous glands, which produce lubricating secretions particularly during sexual intercourse. During sexual stimulation, the labia minora swell as their blood vessels become engorged with...
