Vulva

The vulva is the collective name for the external female genitalia and is made up of several parts. These include the mons pubis, labia majora and minora, clitoris, vestibular bulbs, perineal body, and urethral and vaginal openings. The mons pubis is a fatty mound of tissue that lies directly above the pubic bone. It is covered with pubic hair and is sensitive to touch. The labia majora are two large, hair-covered folds of skin that extend from the mons pubis to the perineum. The labia minora are two thin folds of skin located within the labia majora. They contain numerous nerve endings, making them sensitive to touch. The clitoris is a small organ located near the top of the vulva, between the labia minora. It is covered by a fold of skin called the clitoral hood and is highly sensitive to sexual stimulation. The vestibular bulbs are two small structures located on either side of the vaginal opening that are responsible for engorgement during sexual arousal. The perineal body is a tough fibromuscular band located between the anus and the vulva. The urethral opening is located near the clitoris, between the labia minora. It is the opening through which urine is expelled from the body. The vaginal opening is located below the urethral opening and is the entrance to the vagina. The vulva is an area of the body that is often overlooked and under-appreciated. It is, however, an important part of a woman’s anatomy, as it is responsible for sexual pleasure and reproduction. Knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of the vulva is essential for understanding and maintaining good reproductive health.