I never really took the time to examine my vulva until it became necessary, like when I was trying to conceive or suspected I had an infection. Honestly, spending time looking at my vulva wasn’t something I did regularly — at least not in broad daylight.
Too much information? As a woman who has seen various vulvas, I can confidently say that each one is unique. I’ve come to appreciate the differences and have learned to cherish my own in unexpected ways. We should all take a moment to appreciate what we have, as we only get one vulva in this lifetime.
It has taken me years to reach this level of appreciation, to see my vulva for what it truly is and to celebrate it in all its magnificence. Today, I understand and value my vulva much more than I did in my twenties.
Let’s Delve Into Our Vulvas
It’s time to familiarize ourselves with them, show them some love, and stay aware of any health issues that may arise on our journeys as proud vulva owners.
First, let’s clarify some terminology. Many people often mistakenly use “vagina” to refer to their vulva. As health writer Clara Thompson explains, “The vulva is the visible part of what most refer to as the vagina. It includes all the external elements such as the mons pubis, labia, and clitoris.”
Have you recently taken a look at yours? No? You definitely should. Let me explain why.
Recently, I faced a health scare related to vulvar cancer (yes, it exists!). I underwent a painful biopsy that made me feel embarrassed to share my experience. Who wants to discuss such a personal issue? But it’s crucial to talk about these matters to help others. Thankfully, I came out cancer-free, with a newfound respect for my body and my vulva.
So, take the time to examine your vulva regularly; it could be a lifesaver. When you do, you’ll realize that yours is one-of-a-kind and deserves the same love and care you give the rest of your body.
If I hadn’t looked at my vulva periodically, I wouldn’t have been aware of any changes. Just like any part of our body, our vulva evolves as we age. I highly recommend grabbing a mirror and spending some time getting acquainted with your vulva in the light.
Inspiration from “In The Goop Lab”
For some inspiration, check out In The Goop Lab with Gwyneth Paltrow. In the episode titled “The Pleasure Is Ours,” women are encouraged, with guidance from sex educator Betty Simmons, to develop a relationship with their vulvas. There’s even a workshop aimed at helping women feel more comfortable and present in their own bodies.
During one session, a group of women participates in a “genital show and tell,” sitting together to view one another’s vulvas. In another scene, women explore their own bodies with mirrors, discovering their unique appearances. If you’re skeptical, watch the episode on Netflix; it’s eye-opening and a little sad that so many women feel disconnected from their bodies for various reasons.
Often, we unfairly compare our bodies to those we see in adult films or in textbooks, which can lead to insecurity. What I learned from this show is that there’s an incredible variety of vulvas, and each is beautiful in its own way.
Cultivating Vulva Confidence
Let’s cultivate vulva confidence by embracing what we have. Familiarizing yourself with your own anatomy can deepen your understanding of your body and enhance your self-esteem. As writer Isla Greene notes, “A positive self-image of your genitalia is linked to higher sexual self-esteem, which is beneficial for your overall confidence and intimate relationships.”
Remember, the appearance of your vulva does not determine your worth. It is perfect just as it is and will never look like anyone else’s. While there may be similarities, each vulva is uniquely yours—own it!
And make sure to know your vulva well enough to notice if something seems off; it could be a lifesaver.
Additional Resources
For more information on female health and home insemination, check out this excellent resource for guidance. If you’re looking for additional insights, visit this authority on the topic for more details. Also, don’t forget to explore this related blog post to keep learning.
Search Queries You Might Be Interested In:
- What are the parts of the vulva?
- How to perform self-examinations of your vulva
- Common vulva health issues
- The importance of vulva self-awareness
- How to embrace your own anatomy
In summary, it’s essential to get familiar with your vulva, appreciate its uniqueness, and be proactive about your health. Understanding your body can lead to greater self-confidence and awareness.