Vulva Anatomy 101
Vulva is a rather underused word and is often mistakenly substituted with the word vagina. The vulva is the external portion of the female genitals. While the opening to the vagina is part of the vulva, the vagina is a separate entity all its own.The vulva is the home of the pubic mound, or mons veneris, clitoris, urethral meatus, inner and outer labia (technically called the labia minora and labia majora) and vaginal opening. This area is rich in nerve endings which, when stimulated, are responsible for sexual pleasure.
Mons Veneris
The journey starts with the mons veneris (“hill” of the Roman goddess of love). This is the area that grows the bush of pubic hair (believed to produce pheromones for sexual attraction) and provides a protective layer of fat over the pubic bone. When caressed, this area can deliver arousing sensations to the woman.Clitoris
Travel down the road and the next landmark is the clitoris. This incredible landmark has between 8000-9000 nerve endings, and its only purpose is pleasure! Incidentally, clitoral stimulation is responsible for over 75% of female orgasms.
Clitoral Clura
The clitoris does not consist of only the pearl seen at the surface, but its crura extends under the vulva’s exterior and supplies pleasure-filled nerve endings to the entire vulva region. These nerve pathways are similar, yet uniquely positioned in each woman and the reason why what feels magical for one woman may not offer the same experience for another woman.
Urethral Meatus
The urethral meatus lies below the clitoris and is the opening from which urine exits the body. It is surrounded by a layer of erectile tissue called the urethral sponge. When this area is sexually stimulated, it becomes engorged with blood and can offer exciting sensations for many women.
The vaginal opening originates in the vulva and ends at the cervix (lower portion of the uterus). It is not a tube, but rather a potential space made of skin folds that can expand to accommodate either the head of a penis or the head of a baby. It has been mistaken for the area in which women experience the most pleasure during sex, but in fact, less than 25% of women experience orgasm by penetration alone. Although resulting in fewer orgasms, vaginal stimulation can still supply immense pleasure. Typically, the greatest sensations are experienced in the first third of the vagina where the nerves from the clitoral crura and the G-Spot reside.
Labia
Originating at the base of the mons veneris, the labia surround the clitoris, urethra meatus, and vaginal opening. The inner labia, especially, are highly diverse, ranging from small and uniform to long and pendulous. The clitoral crura extends around this area, offering yet more areas of sexual pleasure.
Vulva Appearance
It is important to remember that each vulva will appear as different as the noses on our faces; the size, shape, color, and hair of each terrain is unique. This diversity is normal!
Now it is time to look at your amazing vulva, and see just how beautiful it is! The two top ways to see your vulva are 1) leg up on a counter and 2) reclining with legs spread. Additional lighting and a mirror (or use your cell phone, but be careful not to accidently send the pic!) will allow for the best view. Take the time to explore the colors, textures, and sensations, and become familiar with this amazing area which will provide you with exquisite pleasure.
Enjoyed reading this article on vulva anatomy? We've got more pleasure guides for you. Not a fan of reading? Check us out on Instagram @lewandmassager!
