The labia majora contain sweat and sebaceous glands that help protect the vulva.
Labia are folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening and entrance to the urethra. There is an inner set called labia minora, which are smaller than outer ones called labia majora. Labia majora have fatty tissue, hair follicles, oil glands, and blood vessels that make them thicker and more padded than labia minora. They also provide protection against bacteria and other microbes entering the vagina. The area inside the labia majora is known as vestibule. It contains Bartholin's glands that produce lubricating fluid. Vestibule may be referred to as frenulum, while labia majora as lips. Some women's vulvas have hairy clitoral hoods above their clit, others don't.
Lips can appear differently in different women due to genetics, hormones, age, weight gain/loss, pregnancy, childbirth, puberty, or aging. Folds can hang out from the sides or rest flat atop the labial opening. Labia majora's color varies from person to person, being lighter for blondes and darker for brunettes. Pinkish-brown is common, but they can be pale or light brownish, too. Labia are sensitive, and touching them could feel pleasurable during foreplay, but it depends on individual preferences.
The labia minora are two small folds of skin between the labia majora. Their function is to protect the clitoris and urethra entrance. Labia minora lack hair follicles, sweat, and sebaceous glands found in labia majora. The inner surface is usually smooth, which makes them easily irritated by friction. As they become wet, they swell up and open wider, providing access to the vaginal canal. They also help regulate the pH balance inside the vagina.
Labia majora contain sweat and sebaceous glands that produce oily secretions. Sebum helps protect the vulva against bacteria and other microorganisms while moisture keeps the area lubricated. These fluids act as a natural barrier against urine, semen, or menstrual blood leaking outside the body. It might not sound pleasant, but these glands ensure your genitals stay healthy and prevent infections.
Women who shave their pubic hair may find labia drier than usual due to reduced protection against external stimuli. Shaving doesn't change the sensitivity of the area, though. If you experience dryness or discomfort from shaving, consider switching to laser treatment or creams that boost collagen production instead. Tight-fitting underwear can cause pain and abrasions due to rubbing, so choose loose cotton fabrics instead.