Vagina or vulva? Yes, there is a difference

In 2016, the Eve Appeal foundation for gynaecological cancers asked 1,000 women to label a diagram of sexual anatomy. 44% could not identify their vagina and 60% could not identify their vulva.

Even today, many people confuse the vulva with the vagina. So what is the difference?

The Vulva

Vulva refers to all of your external genitalia. This includes the labia majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips). The labia surround the openings to the urethra and vagina, the outer part of the clitoris and the clitoral hood. The vulva also includes the perineum — the sensitive area between the vaginal opening and the anus.

The Vagina

The vagina is the internal tube that connects the external genital area (vulva) to the cervix (the entrance to the uterus).

There’s No Such Thing As “Normal” Genitalia

Every vulva is completely unique! Think of how many different shapes of noses exist. There is just as much variety when it comes to vulvas.

As well as huge variations in the size, shape, position, and color of the labia, there are also many differences in the amount, distribution, and density of pubic hair. The size of the clitoral hood also varies, and even the clitoris is different from one person to another.

Unfortunately mainstream pornography continues to promote and perpetuate unrealistic ideas about how our genitals should look. This has led to a growing number of young women undergoing labiaplasties — the surgical reduction or remodelling of the vaginal lips.

According to data gathered by the International Plastic Surgery Society, labiaplasties increased by 45% around the world between 2015 and 2016. 95% of these procedures were carried out on women under 40.

It’s completely normal for your labia to look different from what you’ve seen online or on other people. Most labia are not symmetrical, and it’s very common for the inner lips to be longer than the outer ones.

With vulvas, as with many things in life, their beauty lies in their individuality.