Let’s clear up the debate once and for all: vulva vs. vagina. What’s the difference?
Look, we get it. Many might think, ‘who cares what we call our genitals?’ But the thing is, the words we use matter. When we say vulva instead of vagina, we’re talking about a completely different area, with different purposes and different ways of keeping things working. And if you need a good argument for why terminology matters, here’s one: it affects issues as important as sexual health.
Let’s define the difference between the two.
What exactly is the vulva?
In short, it’s the whole shebang. Vulva is actually the correct term for the outside parts, including the pubic mound, the labia majora and minora, the ever-amazing clitoris, the external openings of the urethral opening (your pee hole) and the vaginal opening.
NOTE: There are plenty of misconceptions about what an ideal vulva might look like (thanks to porn), but the truth is, all vulvas are fabulous – and not one vulva looks the same. Some vulvas are big, some are small, some have a lot of hair, and some don't have any. You get the gist. The point is - your vulva is normal, and better yet, amazing no matter what it looks like.
What is my vagina then?
The vagina is the muscular canal that connects the uterus to the vulva. It’s where your menstrual flow passes through, and where babies are delivered through during childbirth. An important thing to note is that the vagina is a mucous membrane and capable of secreting and absorbing fluids at a higher rate than skin! Hence why, it’s super important to pay attention to products you put in there. Things like endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), carcinogens, or allergens are no joke as the mucous membranes in both the vagina and vulva rapidly absorb chemicals into your blood stream.
DID YOU KNOW: Many tampons and intimate hygiene products can contain these harmful ingredients?
How do I use the terms correctly?
When you’re talking about putting something in or taking something out, like a menstrual cup, you are correct to use the word vagina. Vulva is the exterior part, and the word should be used when describing the outer parts.
Why does it matter?
Understanding your body is essential to building healthy relationships and for staying on top of your reproductive health. Knowing your anatomy and knowing how to do regular self-checkups can help ensure that problems affecting your vulva or vagina are diagnosed as soon as possible. It will be much easier to explain your health concerns to your doctor if you’re using accurate and specific terminology.
When it comes to sexual pleasure, referring just to the vagina is pushing aside some important parts of your intimate bits, such as the clitoris. Using the right terminology is going to make a world of difference for you - and your partner, since most people with vaginas need stimulation on their clitoris to feel sexual pleasure.
Vulva & vagina have different functions
The vagina is an amazing organ. It’s there to enable people to become pregnant and give birth to children. It’s lined with a mucous membrane that protects against infection, as well as complex mix of bacteria – also known as vaginal flora. It’s like a self-cleaning oven, which cleans itself by regularly expelling the mix of fluid and cells you probably know as discharge. Washing or douching your vagina can upset your vagina’s delicate pH balance, opening the door for issues like bacterial vaginosis.
The vulva in the other hand acts as the gatekeeper for the uterus. It provides protection by opening and closing the lips of the vulva, officially known as labia majora and minora, while the clitoris acts as the headquarters for sexual response. Pretty cool, right?
It’s important to note that the external vulva area needs assistance with cleaning itself, unlike the vagina.
How to clean your vulva (without causing irritation)
Your vulva is sensitive. Harsh soaps, synthetic fragrances, and hand wash formulas? Not welcome. Instead, use water or a cleanser specifically designed for intimate care.
Other ways to keep your vulva & vagina balanced
- Wear breathable underwear (cotton or bamboo);
- Avoid synthetics like nylon and acrylic;
- Switch to Lunette Period Cup - gentle on your pH;
- Skip scented products like douches, sprays, and talcum powder;
- Do regular self-checks and get to know your anatomy;
- Invest in the Lunette intimate range designed for your sensitive bits.
Your vulva and vagina deserve care, respect, and attention from you most of all. If your gynecologist or partner knows your anatomy better than you do, it’s time to change that. Grab a mirror. Get curious. And choose products that are designed to support your intimate health - not disrupt it.
photo: courtesy of Pinterest
