What is the Vulva? Let's learn exactly about this important part of your body!

Most of the time, when we talk about the female reproductive system, we use the word "Vagina." But did you know that the correct medical name for the entire external area that we call the vagina in everyday speech is "Vulva"? Many people think that these two words are the same. But in fact, it is a much more complex and important part. So today, let's talk very simply, like talking to a friend, about what this Vulva is, what its parts are, and how to keep it healthy.

Simply put, what are the functions of the vulva?

The word "vulva" comes from the Latin word for "cover." True to its name, the vulva covers and protects the sensitive reproductive organs inside our bodies. But that's not all. The vulva has some much more important functions than that.

• Sexual pleasure: Your vulva has special organs, nerves, blood vessels, and tissues dedicated to providing sexual pleasure. Most women need stimulation of the vulva to achieve orgasm.
• Reproduction: Sperm enters the body through the vaginal opening. This is located in the vulva. Also, during childbirth, a baby comes into the world through this vaginal opening.
• Menstruation: During your monthly menstrual cycle, blood shed from the walls of the uterus exits the body through the vaginal opening.
• Urination: The tube that comes from the bladder, the urethra, opens into the urethral opening in the vulva. So you urinate through this.

What are the parts of the vulva? Let's take a look at them in detail.

The vulva is the external genitalia that you can see if you take a mirror and look at the area between your legs. But its structure is not as simple as you think. It has several parts. Knowing about each of these parts is very important for your health.

Let's look at the table below to clearly understand what these parts are.

What are the common conditions that can affect the vulva?

Due to the location of the vulva, it is more susceptible to various infections and skin diseases. Because it is involved in urination and sexual activity, there is a risk of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

Infections

• Bacterial Vaginosis: A condition caused by an imbalance between good and bad bacteria in the vagina.
• Yeast Infection: A condition caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida, causing itching and a white discharge.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Causes symptoms such as burning when urinating and a frequent need to urinate.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): These include diseases such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, HPV, and Syphilis.

Skin Conditions

• Folliculitis: Infection or inflammation of the hair follicle. This condition can be caused by ingrown hairs that grow back into the hair shaft after hair removal.
• Lichen Sclerosus: A condition in which the skin of the vulva becomes pale, thin, and itchy and painful.
• Pubic Lice / Crabs: A species of small insects that live in the hairy areas of the genital area.
• Vulvitis/Vaginitis: Inflammation of the vulva or vagina due to an infection, allergy, or injury.

Other Conditions

• Bartholin Cyst: A fluid-filled cyst formed due to the blockage of a Bartholin gland.
• Dyspareunia: Pain during or after sexual intercourse.
• Vulvodynia: Long-term pain in the vulva area without any apparent cause.
• Vulvar Cancer: A very rare cancer.

What are the symptoms that can identify a problem with the vulva?

As we've talked about before, everyone's vulva is different. So, it's important to be aware of your own body's normal behavior. If you have a good understanding of what your vulva normally looks like, smells like, and the type of discharge you have at different times of your menstrual cycle, you'll be able to quickly recognize any changes.

Pay special attention to the following changes.

During menopause, the body's estrogen levels drop. This is why changes like vaginal dryness and thinning hair are common. However, if you experience any discomfort, pain, or unusual changes, don't be embarrassed or afraid to talk to your doctor. There are treatments for many of these conditions.

How to keep your vulva healthy?

Many diseases that affect the vulva can be prevented by following a few simple hygiene habits. Following these will also protect the health of your vaginal tract.

• Wash with mild soap and warm water: When cleaning this area, avoid using harsh soaps, perfumed soaps, or body washes. These can alter the natural pH of the skin and lead to infections. Daily washing with a mild soap and clean water is sufficient.
• Avoid douching: Avoid washing the inside of the vagina with water or other liquids. The vagina has a natural ability to clean itself. Douching can kill the good bacteria there, leading to infections.
• Wear cotton underwear: Underwear made from synthetic fabrics like nylon traps sweat and moisture, creating a good environment for fungus and bacteria to grow. Therefore, wear cotton underwear that is well ventilated.
• Change out of wet clothes quickly: After getting out of a swimming pool, exercising, or sweating, don't stay in wet clothes for too long. Change out of them quickly and put on dry clothes.
• Practice safe sex: Protection from sexually transmitted diseases is essential for the health of the vulva. Talk to your doctor about using protective methods, such as condoms, and practicing safe sex.
• Be careful with tampons: If you use tampons, don't leave one in for more than 8 hours. It can lead to dangerous conditions like Toxic Shock Syndrome.

Ultimately, your vulva, like any other part of your body, is an important part of your health. Being aware of it, paying attention to changes in it, and seeking medical advice if necessary is very important for your overall well-being.

Vulva, Vagina, Vaginal discharge, Sexual health, Women's health, Clitoris, Labia, Vaginal lips, Reproductive health, Sexually transmitted infections, Vaginal itching