Anatomy vulva vs. vagina: The complete explanation!

It’s a common mistake: the terms “vagina” and “vulva” are often mixed up. Time to clear up this confusion! Although both terms are often used as synonyms, they refer to different parts of the female reproductive system, each with their own unique functions. In this article, we dive deeper into the anatomy of the pelvic floor, why it is important to take good care of the external genitalia, and how knowledge about our bodies is essential to our health as women.

Differences anatomy vulva and vagina

What do you know about the anatomy vulva and vagina? For example, do you know where your urethra is located? You’d be surprised how many women don’t know that the urethra is completely separate from the vagina. Let’s clarify this:

The vulva

This is the external part of the female genitalia and includes everything you can see and touch. The vulva consists of several parts:

• Mons Pubis: This area is usually covered with pubic hair (unless you choose to remove it) and protects the pubic bone during sexual activity or other physical activities.
• Labia Majora: The major labia run on the right and left sides of the vulva and provide cushioning to your pelvis when you are seated. They are naturally hairy and thicken during sexual arousal.
• Labia Minora: These inner folds begin above the clitoris. They vary in color and shape depending on skin color, are soft and hairless, and thicken and become more pleated during sexual arousal.
• Clitoris: This sensitive organ is located just below where the labia majora meet. Although you can only see a small portion on the outside, the clitoris is actually about 3 to 4 inches long and consists of several parts, such as the glans, hood and roots. The clitoris is rich in nerves and blood vessels, which ensures maximum sensitivity and swelling during sexual activity.
• Vestibule: This is the area within the labia minora that contains both the vaginal and urethral openings.
• Urethra: Below the clitoris is the small opening of the urethra, where urine leaves the body.
• Vaginal Opening: The vagina is a flexible, muscular tube that extends from the vaginal opening to the cervix. This tube lengthens during arousal to allow penetration.

The vagina

This is the internal part and consists of the following features:

• Internal canal: The vagina is a flexible tube that extends from the vaginal opening on the outside to the cervix on the inside.
• Length: The vagina averages between 7.5 and 10 centimeters in length, but can stretch during sexual arousal and childbirth.
• Wall structure: The walls of the vagina are made of muscle and connective tissue, which allows it to stretch and contract.

The functions of the vagina

1. Vaginal penetration: The vagina is where vaginal penetration occurs during sexual activity, contributing to sexual arousal and pleasure.
2. Menstruation: During menstruation, blood comes out through the vaginal opening. This is a natural process in which the body sheds the unused tissue of the uterus.
3. Insertion of tampons and menstrual cups: Women can insert tampons or menstrual cups into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. The flexible structure of the vagina makes this possible. Let’s also immediately debunk a common myth: a menstrual cup can never get “lost” in your body. This is impossible because the cervix acts as a natural barrier that prevents the cup from moving any further. Curious about our Beppy menstrual cup? Read more about it here!
4. Birth canal: During labor, the vagina serves as the birth canal. The vagina stretches and welcomes the baby when it comes into the world.
5. Internal cleaning: The vagina has a self-cleaning ability. It produces secretions that help cleanse and protect against infection. This secretion consists of mucus and bacteria that support healthy flora.
6. Connection to the uterus: The vagina connects the uterus to the outside of the body, making it an important part of the reproductive system.
7. Important role in health: Understanding the function of the vagina can help with early recognition of possible health problems, such as infections or other conditions.

Tips for caring for your vulva and vagina

• Vulva care: The vulva should be gently cleaned with water and generally does not need perfumed products, strong soaps or other chemicals that can irritate the delicate tissues. For example, the labia minora and labia majora are very sensitive and excessive or rough cleaning can cause irritation.
• Vaginal Care: The vagina is self-cleaning! You do not need to use showers, as they can upset the natural balance of the vagina and cause problems such as infections or dryness.

Understanding your body makes you stronger

Understanding the anatomy vulva, vagina and pelvic floor is an essential part of your health as a woman. When you have an understanding of how your body functions, you gain the ability to recognize problems early. These can range from prolapse and urinary incontinence to vaginal infections, so you can seek appropriate help in a timely manner.

If, after getting to know yourself, you notice abnormalities in your vulva or vagina, seek help. Through the Evie Health app, you can easily schedule a pelvic evaluation with female health physical therapists around the world and begin improving your pelvic floor health. It is also valuable to know that Ser Pélvica focuses on promoting pelvic health, with specific attention to the anatomy vulva and vagina. Your body will thank you! Do you have any questions for us? Feel free to ask them, contact us!