The part of the female genitals that is visible from the outside is called the vulva. The vulva includes the mons pubis, the glans of the clitoris, the urethral opening, the vaginal opening and the labia (“lips”).
What is the anatomy of the vulva?
The vulva is the part of the female genitalia that is visible from the outside: It starts with the mons pubis and ends with the vaginal opening. Behind it are the perineum and the anus.
What is the mons pubis?
The mons pubis is the part you see from the front when you're standing. It is covered with pubic hair in adults, unless the hair is shaved off.
Where is the clitoris?
Directly underneath the mons pubis is the head (or glans) of the clitoris.
How can I find the urethral opening?
Just below the clitoral glans is the opening of the urethra (where urine comes out when you pee). It's often hard to see because it's so small. You'll probably be able to find it most easily by trying to feel it with your fingers. That's because touching it can trigger a slight urge to urinate. It may also arouse you.
Where is the vagina?
Right below that comes the opening of the vagina. The vaginal opening is completely or partially surrounded by the hymen. Even if the hymen is torn, you will probably see remnants of it. The area around the urethral opening and the vaginal opening is called the vestibule.
What are the labia?
The outer and inner labia (“lips”) run along the right and left sides from the clitoral glans to just behind the vaginal opening. The larger, outer labia are also called labia majora. The smaller, inner labia are also called labia minora.
What can't I see from the outside?
In this illustration, the purple parts are those you can't see from the outside: the clitoral cura (“legs”), the vestibular bulbs, and the Bartholin's glands.
Would I recognize my vulva at the lost and found?
Vulvas are as different as faces. While we know our faces very well, many of us would not be able to recognize our vulva at the lost and found if we were to lose it. You don't get to know your own vulva by just looking at pictures of other vulvas. That's like wanting to get to know your face by looking at pictures of other faces. To get to know your vulva, you have to look at it.
What is the best way to look at my vulva?
A good time is after a shower, when you are warm and in a warm room. It's best to sit in your bed, leaning back comfortably, and to then pull your legs up and look at your vulva with a hand mirror. Another tip: draw a picture of your vulva before you look at it. It can be very interesting to then compare your idea of the vulva with reality.
I don't like the look of my vulva, what should I do?
You may find that your vulva looks strange at first, or maybe you don't like it at all. If Martians came to Earth, they would also think that human faces also look strange. After all, in order to find something beautiful, we must first become familiar with it. Therefore, we recommend that you look at your vulva regularly. This is the best way to get acquainted with it. Smile while you look at it. Smiling creates good feelings. When you smile while looking, you will like what you see much more than if you frown.
Does the vulva change throughout life?
Yes, the vulva changes its appearance as you age. And it also looks different after childbirth. You could get into the habit of taking a picture of your vulva every year for your birthday. Make sure you print the picture and don't keep it on your phone or camera — so no one else can get a hold of it. You can make your own private vulva album.
What do other vulvas look like?
You can take a look at this vulva gallery.