5 Vulva Facts You Didn't Know

5 vulva facts you didn’t know? Wait, how?

Let’s face the truth.

The fact that we’re women doesn’t mean we’re experts on our vagina. Actually, only if you got out of your way to learn more about your vajajay, then you can say you KNOW- KNOW about it. Because we bet in your high-school sex ed classes you barely touched on this subject. Getting to know about the function of every part, how to ‘use’ it or how to really take care of it - was definitely not part of our education.

And the reason why we haven’t received a good class on our vaginas, is that there has always been a shame related to talking about this subject. Well, we want to put an end to that. The vagina is part of our nature, a BIG important part, and it should be normal to talk openly about it.

So, get ready because we prepared 5 vulva facts you didn’t know, and you’ll love! Start taking notes!

1. The vulva is not the vagina, but we know what you mean

Do you know that around 50% of women fail to identify the vulva and the vagina? And some women who know these refer to two different parts of the body, think the vulva is only the ‘lips’.

The vulva is composed of labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vaginal opening, and the opening of the urethra. The vagina is the internal canal that connects the uterus and ovaries to the vulva. It is covered by many folds called rugae which make it extremely flexible.

2. There is much more to the clitoris than meets the eye

The clitoris is like an iceberg, we can only see the tip, but it has a rich supply of blood vessels and nerve endings hidden beneath the skin. And did you know the ONLY purpose of the clitoris is sexual pleasure? We are definitely not complaining.

3. Vulva and vaginas change color and shape

The color of your vulva may not be the same as the rest of your skin, in most cases it’s darker. Normal labia color ranges from pink to brown to purplish, and they are all very common. When you’re turned on, the color of your labia can temporarily deepen as blood rushes to the area. It also becomes longer and wider for you know what... But no worries, it will return to its normal form once the moment has passed.

Other changes can happen due the hormones going crazy during the menopause, such as thinning of the vulval skin, or due to pregnancy, such as darkening of the vulval skin.

4. Most women can’t orgasm from vaginal penetration

Around 80% of women say the vulva, specifically the clitoris, plays an essential role in reaching an orgasm, and penetration alone won’t do it. So, girls, this is why it's so important to get to know your vulva and vagina, and the functions of each part. The reality is the vulva is a massive source of pleasure, so don’t miss out on using it.

5. Vulvas are not supposed to smell the same, they’re unique

The vagina contains a highly specialized bacteria that keep your vaginal pH healthy and balanced. And like other bacteria, they have a smell. Additionally, our diet, gland secretions, level of hygiene and the fabric we wear contribute to the smell. So, the cleaner you are - in every sense - the better the smell. However, your normal smell might change slightly after a workout or during your period, but if it should go back to normal. If it does get a fishy odor, talk to your doctor as that can be a sign of infection.