A comprehensive study examining 657 external female genitalia has demonstrated that the concept of “normal” in female sexual anatomy is a myth. Conducted over two years at the Cantonal Hospital in Lucerne, Switzerland, the research aimed to establish standard measurements for vulvar morphology, recruiting Caucasian women aged 15 to 84.
From August 2015 to April 2017, participants voluntarily had their labia majora and minora measured, alongside assessments of their clitoral glands and the distance from those glands to the urethral opening. This data was analyzed in relation to age and BMI, all with the intent of setting benchmarks for gynecological cosmetic procedures. Yes, you read that right—this scientific exploration was aimed at enhancing cosmetic surgeries like labiaplasty, which seeks to create the so-called “designer vagina.”
In this article, I will refer to women as those with vaginas, although it’s crucial to note that gender identity doesn’t always align with physical anatomy. While most females have female genitalia, transgender men may have vaginas, and trans women may have penises. Intersex individuals might present with variations in their genitalia. Ultimately, one’s gender identity is shaped by brain chemistry rather than physical characteristics.
Reflecting on those awkward junior high sexual education classes, many of us were left feeling confused. The textbook illustrations of male anatomy were unappealing, and understanding our own bodies felt like navigating a complex maze. We learned that the vagina is the internal structure, while the vulva comprises the external components. We were encouraged to use a hand mirror to familiarize ourselves with our anatomy, promoting self-acceptance. Despite its complexities—such as varying fluids and textures throughout the menstrual cycle—the vulva and vagina deserve our attention and care.
A recent Twitter discussion led by Lily Hart highlighted that vaginas are self-cleaning and possess elastic properties that aren’t reliant on sexual activity. They’re wonderfully unique. While it’s important to seek medical advice if you experience discomfort or unusual odors, we should generally leave our vaginas alone.
The same principle applies to the vulva. If everything is functioning well, there’s no need for cosmetic alterations. Unfortunately, societal pressures, often exacerbated by pornography, have distorted our perceptions of what female genitalia should resemble. Spoiler alert: adult vulvas and vaginas do not conform to the unrealistic standards often depicted in adult films.
Dr. Naomi Jones, chair of the British Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (BritSPAG), notes that some young girls, as young as nine, have sought labiaplasty, which reflects a troubling trend in Western culture that favors small, hidden lips. She asserts that not a single girl she has encountered who underwent the surgery actually needed it. “There is no scientific basis supporting labiaplasty, and the potential risks—especially for teenagers still undergoing physical and psychological development—are significant,” said Jones in a piece for The Independent.
This recent study from the Cantonal Hospital in Lucerne complements the health guide from BritSPAG titled “What Exactly Is a Vulva?” Both resources emphasize the extraordinary variety of vulvas and vaginas. Although averages were recorded, the results varied so greatly that a standard “normal” cannot be defined. No two vulvas or vaginas are identical, so let’s ease up on the obsession with surgical enhancements. Your anatomy is perfectly unique.
For more on home insemination options, check out our post on intracervical insemination. Additionally, if you are exploring artificial insemination kits, you might want to visit Cryobaby, which is an authority on the subject. For a comprehensive overview of intrauterine insemination, the NHS provides excellent resources.
In summary, it’s essential to understand that there is no single standard for what a vulva or vagina should look like. Each person’s anatomy is unique, and societal pressures to conform to a narrow definition of beauty can lead to unnecessary and harmful procedures. Embrace your body as it is—it’s perfectly you.