The vulva is often misunderstood - here are the 5 most common myths about it
When it comes to the vulva, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions that prevail. In order to help dispel some of these myths, we’ve put together a list of the 5 most common ones. Read on to learn more about the beautiful and unique part of the body known as the vulva.
1. Myth - The vulva is only the external parts.
The vulva is often wrongly assumed to be just the external parts, but it actually includes both internal and external structures. The external structures are the labia majora (the outer lips), the labia minora (the inner lips), the clitoris, and the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus). The internal structures include the vaginal wall, the cervix, and the ovaries. Contrary to popular belief, the vulva is not just a 'hole.' It is a complex and fascinating part of the human body that deserves to be respected and understood. So next time you hear someone refer to the vulva as just the 'external parts,' you can educate them on the true nature of this amazing organ.
2. Myth - The vagina and vulva are the same thing.
Many people believe that the vagina and vulva are the same thing. After all, they are both situated in the same general area and serve similar functions. However, there are actually some key differences between these two body parts. The vulva is the external genitalia, which includes the labia, clitoris, and urethra. The vagina, on the other hand, is a muscular canal that extends from the vulva to the cervix. In other words, the vagina is located inside the body, while the vulva is located outside. So, next time someone asks you if you're referring to the vagina or vulva, you can confidently correct them: they're two different things!
3. Myth - All vulvas look the same.
In popular culture, vulvas are often presented as being identical - two fleshy lips, neatly tucked away. However, the reality is that vulvas come in all shapes and sizes. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two vulvas are exactly the same. This diversity is what makes each vulva unique and beautiful. So next time you see a picture of a "perfect" vulva in a magazine, remember that it's just one small slice of the diverse and wonderful world of Vulvas.
4. Myth - The purpose of the vulva is to provide sexual pleasure
The vulva is often described as the "gateway to pleasure." And while it's true that this intricate network of nerves can provide intense sexual pleasure, it's also responsible for much more. The vulva includes the external genitalia, the vaginal opening, and the urethral opening. It's also home to the clitoris and G-spot, which are highly sensitive area that can lead to orgasm.
In addition to sexual pleasure, the vulva also plays an important role in reproduction. The vagina is the passageway for sperm to travel to the egg, and the vulva also protects the developing fetus during pregnancy. So while it's certainly true that the vulva is a source of pleasure, it's far from being limited to that function.
5. Myth - You should remove public hair to keep your vulva clean
Contrary to popular belief, shaving your pubic hair does not make your vagina any cleaner. In fact, it can actually lead to more hygiene problems. Pubic hair actually serves a very important purpose in protecting your vagina from infection. When you remove your pubic hair, you are also removing the barrier that protects your delicate skin from bacteria and other contaminants. Shaving can also cause tiny cuts and scrapes in the skin, which can provide a gateway for bacteria and other pathogens. Additionally, hair removal creams and other methods can also irritate the sensitive skin around the vagina, increasing the risk of infection. So what's the best way to keep your vagina clean? Simple: just wash it with mild soap and water on a regular basis. That's all it takes!
As you can see, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about the vulva. But now that you know the truth, you can help spread accurate information about this amazing body part! Remember, the next time someone refers to the vulva as just a "hole" or says that all vulvas look the same, you can confidently set them straight. And who knows? You might just help them learn something new in the process!