The difference between vulva and vagina

I've recently had one of those moments that really makes you stop and think. It all started with an email - not just any email actually, but an email from a dedicated gynecologist. She had read one of my previous blogs entitled "Wash your vagina properly - important advice for intimate washing". What she pointed out was something so simple, yet fundamental: the way I had been using my words. I had written "vagina" when I should have written "vulva". And of course, she was absolutely spot on. Because there actually is a significant difference between vulva and vagina. In fact, they are two completely different parts of the female body, and each has its own unique function and care needs. I figured that out. Really. Yet I fell for the simple but inaccurate language. I have to admit, it's incredibly easy to do so, even for someone like me who is aware of and understands this important distinction. Using the right words when referring to our genitals is very important, and it's not just about being nitpicky. For starters, knowing the difference between vulva and vagina makes us body experts on ourselves. It also helps us to take better care of our health and understand our bodies. When we talk openly and accurately about our genitals, it can also help to shatter old taboos and false myths. That's why it's time to clarify the difference between vulva and vagina once and for all ♥

VULVA - THE OUTER PARTS

The vulva is the common name for the outer parts of a woman's genitals that are visible and protect the internal genitals from bacteria and infections. Avoid using intimate products containing perfume or soap on the vulva, as they can disrupt the natural pH and the delicate vaginal bacterial flora. VagiVital V Cleanser is a unique intimate wash that cleans both water- and oil-based impurities without disturbing the sensitive vaginal microflora or pH value, while also retaining moisture, as it is based on the same unique moisturizing formula as VagiVital AktivGel.

You can find VagiVital V Cleanser here!

ANATOMY OF THE VULVA

🌺 Mons pubis (the pubic mound)

Mons pubis, also known as the pubic mound, or just simply mond, is the fat-filled pad located just above the pubic bone, at the bottom of the abdomen. There are several practical functions of the pubic hair in this area, as it helps to protect the area from friction and provides a layer of protection against bacteria and other pathogens. Additionally, the pubic hair plays a role in the natural spread of pheromones, which is important for attracting a mate. The size or shape of the mons pubis can change in some cases due to weight gain, weight loss or hormonal changes that can occur at different stages of life, such as pregnancy or menopause.

Read the blog about pubic hair here!

🌺 Labia majora (the larger labia)

There are two sets of labia in the vulva - the labia majora and the labia minora. Labia majora are the outer, larger folds of skin that surround the vulva. They are typically covered in pubic hair and contain fatty tissue, sweat glands and oil-producing glands. Their main function is to protect the internal genitalia and to contribute to the sexual response by swelling and becoming more sensitive to increased sexual stimuli.

🌺 Labia minora (the smaller labia)

The labia minora are thin folds of skin located on the inside of the labia majora. They have no pubic hair and are rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, making them very sensitive to contact. Among other things, their function is to protect the opening to the urethra and vagina and contribute to sexual stimulation through their sensitivity. However, it is important to remember that both the size and shape of the labia minora and labia majora vary greatly from woman to woman. These differences are normal and part of the body's natural diversity. In addition, the labia play a role in the body's defense against infections by maintaining a healthy microclimate in the vulva.

🌺 Clitoris

A central and highly sensitive organ in the female reproductive system, the clitoris, is located where the inner labia meet. An extensive organ, it extends into the body like an iceberg with only the tip visible. The visible part, the glans clitoris, is only a small part of the whole structure and varies in size and shape from person to person.

The clitoris is one of the most nerve-dense parts of the human body, with around 8,000 nerve endings - twice as many as on a man's penis. This exceptionally high sensitivity makes the clitoris central to sexual arousal and orgasm. Similar to the male penis, the clitoris has a unique ability to swell when blood flow increases during sexual arousal, which increases sensitivity and can lead to sexual satisfaction.

The clitoris plays a crucial role in a woman's sexual response, including arousal and orgasm. For many women, stimulation of the clitoris is often necessary to achieve orgasm. Interestingly, the clitoris and penis share a common origin, as they both develop from the same embryonic tissue. Meaning they are structurally and functionally similar organs.

🌺 Urethral opening

The urethral opening is an important part of the body's urinary system and its main function is to ensure that urine comes out. In females, this opening is strategically located just below the clitoris and in front of the vaginal opening. It is through this channel that urine is transported from the bladder to the outside of the body. Women's urethra differs from men's in that it is relatively short, usually around 4 cm, which is significantly shorter than in men. This short length, along with its proximity to the anus, also increases the risk of urinary tract infections.

Read the blog about urinary tract infection here!

🌺 Vaginal opening

The vaginal opening, i.e. the entry to the vagina, is a key part of a woman's reproductive system. The vaginal opening is located just below the opening of the urethra and plays an important role in several aspects of women's health and well-being. The vaginal opening is not only important for reproductive functions such as intercourse and childbirth, but also for menstruation. The opening is flexible and can adapt to different sizes, which is especially important during childbirth as it expands to accommodate the baby. It is the elastic tissue around the vaginal opening that contributes to this flexibility. The vaginal opening can also expand during sexual arousal, which facilitates intercourse and can increase sexual pleasure. The vaginal opening is also affected by various factors such as infections and hormonal changes. Pain in the vulva, known as vulvodynia, is a condition where pain in the vaginal opening occurs during vaginal sex, insertion of a tampon or other contact. This condition was previously known as vestibulitis, but the term vulvodynia, which literally means pain in the vulva, has been used in the last twenty years.

Read the blog about Vulvodynia - pain in the vaginal opening during sex and touch here. https://vagivital.com/blogs/news/vulvodynia-pain-in-the-vaginal-opening-during-sex-and-touch

🌺 Bartholin's glands

Bartholin's glands are two small but important glands located on either side of the vaginal opening and they play a central role in a woman's reproductive and sexual health. Their primary function is to produce a fluid that helps to lubricate the vulva, which is important for comfort during intercourse and helps to reduce friction and irritation. The glands are normally small, about the size of a pea, and are not visible or noticeable when healthy. The liquid they produce is released in small amounts and becomes more noticeable with sexual arousal. This natural lubrication plays an important role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the vulva, and also facilitates natural bodily functions such as intercourse and menstruation.

🌺 Perineum

The female perineum is the specified area between the vulva and the anus. The perineum is structurally made up of muscles, tissue and skin. It includes parts of the pelvic floor muscles, which are important for supporting the pelvic organs and maintaining control over urine and stool secretion. These muscles also play a role in sexual function and can affect sensation during intercourse. During childbirth, the perineum becomes a particularly important area. It stretches and adapts to enable the baby to get through.

THE VAGINA - THE INNER CANAL

The vagina is a muscular canal that extends from the cervix (which is the lower part of the uterus) to the vulva.

🌺 Structure

The anatomical structure of the vagina is characterized by a unique flexibility and elasticity. These characteristics are essential for several of the body's functions, including sexual activity, menstruation and childbirth. The vagina's flexibility and ability to stretch is a direct result of its complex anatomical structure. The vaginal walls are made up of multiple layers of muscle tissue and elastic fibers that allow it to expand and contract. The vagina also plays an important role during the menstrual cycle. It acts as the channel through which menstrual blood and tissue from the uterus is transported out of the body. The vagina's adaptability is most evident during childbirth. During this process, the vagina can stretch significantly to enable the baby to pass through the birth canal. This remarkable ability to expand is essential for a safe and effective birth and demonstrates the incredible strength and flexibility of this part of a woman's reproductive system ♥

🌺 Mucous membranes

The vaginal mucosa, also called mucus membranes, covers the inner surfaces of the vagina. These are not only important for maintaining the natural moisture in the area, but also for protecting against infections and contributing to a healthy microflora. The mucous membranes of the vagina are rich in glands that secrete natural fluids. Vaginal secretions are essential for maintaining a healthy pH balance in the vagina, which is important for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi. This natural moisture also facilitates sexual activity by reducing friction and increasing comfort.

Read the blog Three common myths about the vagina here!

However, in some cases, the mucous membranes in the vagina can become dry. This can result from a number of factors, such as hormonal changes (especially during menopause), medical treatments, stress or certain hygiene products. Dry mucous membranes can lead to discomfort, itching, irritation and an increased risk of infection.

VagiVital AktivGel is a Swedish, hormone-free and non-tacky vaginal gel that both treats and heals intimate symptoms such as dryness, irritation, itching, discomfort during intimate contact and pain during urination. The clear gel is non-sticky and adheres to the vaginal mucosa where it releases water over time, stimulates cell growth on the mucosal surface and restores the pH value. It is recommended by gynecologists and its efficacy is clinically documented. The results are documented in a multi-center study conducted by female researchers, including doctors and professors of gynecology, from Karolinska University Hospital, Uppsala University Hospital and Norrland University Hospital.

You can find VagiVital AktivGel here!

🌺 The self-cleaning function of the vagina

The uniqueness of the vagina is that it maintains hygiene and health through its self-cleaning ability. This is achieved through the production of natural secretions, which play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy environment. Not only is the secretion important for cleansing the vagina of dead skin cells and other waste products, but it also helps to maintain an optimal and balanced pH level. This balance is essential to protect against infections and maintain a healthy bacterial flora. This flora consists of good bacteria, mainly lactobacilli, which protect against harmful microorganisms and support the vagina's natural defense system. Therefore, the use of external cleansers or products in the intimate area should be limited, as they can disrupt this natural balance and lead to problems such as dryness, irritation or infections. Respecting and supporting the vagina's self-cleaning process can contribute to better intimate health and wellbeing.

🌺 Microflora 

The unique microflora of the vagina is made up of different types of bacteria, mainly lactic acid bacteria, which help to protect against infections and maintain a healthy environment. Using strong soaps and perfumed products can disrupt this delicate balance and increase the risk of imbalance and infections.

Read the blog on how to keep your vaginal flora healthy!

WHY IS IT DIFFICULT TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN VULVA AND VAGINA?

So why is it sometimes so difficult to distinguish between what is a vulva and what is a vagina? The confusion is largely due to the way we talk about these parts. In English, we often say "vagina" when we mean both vulva and vagina. It's a bit like calling the whole foot a "toe" - not entirely wrong, but not entirely correct either. This confusing language can cause problems, not only when talking about hygiene, but also when talking about health and illness.

New research shows that it's important to think of the vulva and vagina as two different parts. "It's a bit like having two tools in your toolbox - they look different and have different tasks. If we separate them and understand their unique roles, we can take better care of them. This isn't just about knowing which part is which, but also about giving each part the care it deserves. At the same time, the research highlights how a clearer terminological distinction can also lead to better self-care and a better understanding of women's health in general. Better knowledge leads to better health ❤

Ps. The title of the blog has now of course been changed to "Washing the vulva correctly - important advice for intimate washing".

Read the full blog here!

Take care of both vulva and vagina and Stay Pussytive ❤

/Fanny