It was hardly discussed in sex ed; In fact, most women (and men!) struggle to correctly name the different parts of it. So let’s talk vulvas.
We’re going to myth-bust and chat about some of the most surprising tid-bits (yes, i love a pun) when it comes to ‘down there’ – from labia to pelvic floor & beyond!
1. I’m like a fingerprint
Just like every fingerprint is unique, so is your vulva. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” here. This means that it’s OK for your vulva to look different to a friend’s (or to what you’ve seen in magazine or in porn). Texture, shape, hair, scent – it’s all completely unique to YOU. A great resource is Comfortable in My Skin’s vulva gallery which shows hundreds of untouched REAL vulvas. And, if you’re ever concerned or have questions about it, just reach out to your women’s health doctor (or message us to find one local to you). They’ll be able to guide you!
2. I like it wet
Keeping your vulva moisturised is just as important as any other part of your body – BUT moisturised does not mean moisturising it with lotions or cleaners. Keep things hydrated by drinking h2o. This helps maintain comfort and can prevent issues like dryness or irritation, especially for women postpartum or perimenopausal and athletes (or those who workout regularly). Your vaginal canal is a self-cleaning oven and unless you have an infection. For the external parts of the vulva? Often water and a soft cloth is all you need to clean it.
3. I get stressed out too
Your vagina and pelvic floor can often tell when your stressed. I refer to the pelvic floor as your ‘trauma response muscle’ – it switches on (or contrast) in response to pain, stress or trauma. And it can be notorious for clenching long after the initial stress has gone. A tight pelvic floor can lead to pain with penetration or even tailbone or pelvic pain. Ongoing stress can also increase risk of yeast infections by disrupting your vaginal microbiome, increasing cortisol levels and leaving your immune system compromised. In short, your vulva is impacted by your stress levels. .
4. You can overwork me
Regular exercise is fantastic, but it’s possible to overdo it, especially in sports like cycling or weightlifting, where pressure on the pelvic area is common. A balanced approach is key. If you’re a but of a gym junkie, consider integrating exercises that strengthen and relax the pelvic floor without overstraining it. Slower, more mindful movements like yoga, slow Pilates practice and breathwork can really help.
Keen to understand your pelvic floor? Check out our free guide ‘How do I know if my pelvic floor is too weak or too tight?’
5. I’m more than just a baby-maker
Society often emphasises only the reproductive aspects of the vulva (& a woman in general, but that’s a WHOLE other conversation), but this part of your body is so much more than a baby-maker. Your pelvic floor is your body’s foundation or stabilising muscle – key to almost every single movement you make. It’s also the support frameworks around your sphintcers – your anus, your vagina and your urethra Your clitoris? The only organ that’s solely designed for pleasure. And your vaginal canal is an amazing organ that can expand by almost 150% in both length and depth during arousal. In the words of Taylor Swift’s ex, ‘your body is a wonderland’.
References:
The Journal of Sexual Medicine (2022)
Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease (2021)
Clinical Journal of Pain (2023)
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology (2020)
Journal of Women’s Health (2021)
