Vulva vs Vagina! Let’s learn

There is a lot of confusion out there about just what is a vulva and what is a vagina. Sadly, a lot of people use the word vagina as an all encompassing term for the female genitalia. Well, I am here to set the record straight and tell you all the differences between the two. 

But before I go any further, I want you to know there is NO SHAME in not knowing the difference between the vulva and the vagina. We are not taught in our 5th grade “growing up” lecture about the proper terminology for female anatomy. We are simply just given a pad and told about the impending doom of our periods starting. So, sit back, get comfortable and let’s learn some female anatomy.

Up first…..

The Vulva: 

The vulva is the external tissue of the female genitalia. To get super detailed it consists of the: 

• mons pubis

• labia majora

• labia minora 

• clitoris 

• vestibular bulbs 

• vulva vestibule

• Bartholin's glands

• Skene's glands

• urethra

• vaginal opening

For simplicity sake, we are just going to hone in on the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, urethra and vaginal opening. 

-The Mons Pubis is a layer of fat directly over the pubic bone, where your pubic hair grows. This layer is important as it helps add a layer of cushion to the pubic bone for activities such as intercourse, cycling or horseback riding. Think of it as the squishy upper portion of the vulva.

-The Labia Majora is the outer larger ‘lip’ of the vulva. This layer extends from the mons pubis down to the bottom of the vaginal opening. This layer helps protect all the bulbs and glands of the vulvar. This layer also engorges with blood flow during arousal.

-The Labia Minora is the smaller inner “lip”. This layer lines the same area of the labia majora, but more interior. This layer helps to protect the vestibule. Like the labia majora, it will also engorge  with blood flow during arousal. Note; if you don't see this layer of tissue, not everyone has it! 

-The Clitoris is a the female sex organ; consider it a close retalive to the penis of a male. It is the structure which is FILLED with nerve endings (upwards of 8000) and functions as a sensory organ. There are a lot of parts to the clitoris, but simply put; the portion you see is the glans of the clitoris.

-The Urethra is the extension of the bladder to the external world which allows us to pee! 

-The Vaginal Opening and/or introitus is the layer of tissue made up of the hymen which is the opening to the tubular structure of the vagina. 

Got all that???

Now, the vagina! 

-The Vagina is an elastic, muscular tube on the internal aspect of the female reproductive system. The vagina is the main on ramp for semen to travel for conception and the exit ramp for menses during your period and a child during child birth.  

So why is it important to know these different structures; well because we were never taught them in the first place. And knowledge of power. 

Also, in your lifetime, you might experience discomfort, itch, burn or other symptoms ‘down there’. It’s good to know just what structures are irritated, because different treatments might be needed for different structures. 

I hope you find this helpful. Know that all of us pelvic physical therapists at enCORE Therapy are trained in helping you identify these structures and give you the best education on them! So if you’re in the Kansas City, Overland Park or Lee’s Summit area, don’t hesitate to come see us so we can help you better understand what’s going on with your body!