Vulva

Anatomical structure of the external female genitalia

Anatomy

Diversity in vulval anatomy

The vulva is the external part of the female reproductive system. It includes the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vestibule of the vagina, and the urethral opening. The vulva serves several functions, including protection of the internal genital organs, sexual arousal, and sensation.

Mons Pubis

The mons pubis is a rounded mass of fatty tissue lying over the joint of the pubic bones. It becomes covered with pubic hair during puberty.

Labia Majora

Variation in labia minora size and shape

The labia majora are two prominent folds of skin that extend from the mons pubis to the perineum. They contain sebaceous glands and are covered with pubic hair.

Labia Minora

The labia minora are two smaller folds of skin located between the labia majora. They are highly vascularized and contain numerous sebaceous glands. The labia minora surround the vestibule of the vagina and form the prepuce and frenulum of the clitoris.

Clitoris

Anatomy of the vulva and clitoris

The clitoris is a small, sensitive organ located at the anterior junction of the labia minora. It is homologous to the penis in males and plays a key role in female sexual arousal.

Vestibule of the Vagina

The vestibule of the vagina is the area between the labia minora that contains the openings to the urethra and vagina. It is rich in nerve endings and sensitive to touch.

Urethral Opening

The urethral opening is located within the vestibule, below the clitoris and above the vaginal opening. It is the external opening of the urethra, through which urine is expelled from the body.

Function

The vulva plays a crucial role in protecting the internal genital organs from infection and injury. It also contributes to sexual arousal and sensation, as it contains numerous nerve endings and is involved in the sexual response cycle.

Sexual Arousal

Labia becoming engorged with blood during arousal

During sexual arousal, the vulva undergoes several changes. The labia minora and clitoris become engorged with blood, increasing in size and sensitivity. This engorgement is part of the body's preparation for potential sexual activity.

Development

Development of human genitalia

The development of the vulva begins in the embryonic stage and continues through puberty. The external genitalia develop from the same embryonic structures as the male genitalia, with differentiation occurring due to hormonal influences.

Related Pages

• Female reproductive system
• Clitoris
• Labia
• Mons pubis
• Vestibule of the vagina