Vulva, vagina, labia: what are the differences?

Here's how Prof. Graziottin answers this question from her patients:

It is very useful to initiate a focused conversation with very accurate wording (and visual aids):

• The perineum: personal hygiene is key to reducing the risk that microorganisms coming from the bowel may attack the vulva, the vagina and the bladder.
• The vulva, with its very useful hair, host and protector of the vulvar microbiome. The name includes key microorganisms important to protect the vulvar skin, but also for creating our exquisite “scent of woman”, based on pheromones.
• The clitoris, with its kingdom of pleasure.
• The vestibule, so sensitive and sensually welcoming and yet so vulnerable.
• The entrance of the urethra.
• The entrance of the vagina.

It is also better to clarify the level of the hymen and of the vulvar vestibule, and again the pelvic floor muscles. I show my arms and explain how they can be tightened, gently relaxed or very relaxed to allow intercourse. This will help in clarifying specific symptoms' sites, in case of vulvar pain or sexual pain, their key pathophysiology and key points of the therapy.

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