The vulva is an umbrella term for everything that's visible outside of the vaginal canal. That means it includes more than just the inner and outer lips. It also includes the clitoral hood, the clitoris, the urethra opening, and more. For many people, understanding their vulvas and how they work can feel complicated. But once you know what makes up your vulva, you'll be able to see how amazing this part of yourself really is!
Clitoral hood - This is a flap of skin that covers the glans clitoris, which is the sensitive nub at the top of the vulva. It protects the clit from friction, keeps out germs, and traps moisture so it stays hydrated. When you touch or rub your clit, you might hear it make a clicking sound as it moves around inside its little pouch. The clit itself has thousands of nerve endings and is full of blood vessels, making it super sensitive.
Urethral opening - This tiny hole leads into the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. You'll find it just above the vaginal opening, right in front of the clitoris. Urination comes out through the same channel as ejaculation in men, but women have a separate set of ducts that carry semen during sex.
Perineum - Also called the "taint," this area lies between the vagina and anus. It's where baby's head would come out during childbirth. Some people like to stimulate this spot for extra pleasure.
Vaginal lips - These are two folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening that help keep things nice and tidy down there. They also secrete natural lubricant when you get aroused.
Bartholin glands - These glands produce fluid that helps lubricate the vagina during sex. They're located on both sides of the labia majora.
Mons pubis - This mound of fatty tissue covers the pubic bone and helps protect the genital area from impact. It can be shaved off or left untouched — it's up to you!
Labia minora - These inner lips are located inside the outer ones and vary widely in size, shape, color, and texture. They often feel softer than the outer lips and may even change throughout your cycle.
Labia majora - The outer lips are usually larger and sturdier. They cover most of the vulva, including the clit and urethral opening. When someone says they want to lick their partner's pussy, they might actually mean these outer lips instead of the entire vulva.
Frenulum - This is a thin band of skin that connects the inner lips to the clitoral hood. Some people have one, some don't. Those who do can use this as another erogenous zone to be touched or licked.
Hymen - Many people think that a "virgin" has an intact hymen — but it's not true. The hymen is just tissue at the entrance to the vaginal canal that can stretch easily with any type of activity, like riding a bike or using tampons. In fact, some people never had a hymen to begin with!
Vestibule - This is the space between the labia minora where urine comes out during peeing. There may also be a small hole called the vestibular glands that secrete more lubrication for sex.
Major arteries - These two blood vessels provide oxygen-rich blood to the genital area and help keep it healthy and happy.
The vagina is technically only part of the vulva. It's the muscular tunnel inside the body that leads from the cervix to the outside world. During sex, fluids can come out of your vagina and even get mixed up with semen from your partner. But that doesn't make them the same thing.