A comprehensive study examined 657 external female genitalia, specifically the vulva, revealing that the idea of a “normal” female sexual anatomy is a myth. Conducted over two years at the Cantonal Hospital Lucerne in Switzerland, the research enlisted Caucasian women aged 15 to 84 to explore the concept of standard “vulvar morphology.”
Between August 2015 and April 2017, participants willingly allowed measurements of their labia majora and minora, clitoral glands, and distances from the clitoral gland to the urethral opening. They also recorded baseline characteristics, considering variables like age and body mass index (BMI). The objective of this study was to set benchmarks for gynecological cosmetic surgery, including the controversial labiaplasty— a procedure aimed at creating a so-called “designer vagina.”
In this article, I will refer to gender and sex interchangeably as the study focused on women with vaginas, but it’s crucial to recognize that gender doesn’t always align with anatomy. While the majority of females possess female genitalia, transgender men may have vaginas, and trans women may have penises. Additionally, intersex individuals may exhibit various genital traits. Ultimately, one’s gender identity is determined by complex neurobiological factors rather than anatomical features.
Reflecting on Sex Education
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the often awkward and inadequate sex education we received in junior high. The textbook illustrations of testicles and flaccid penises were perplexing, and understanding the anatomy of our own bodies felt like deciphering an unfamiliar map. The vagina, an internal structure, is often confused with the vulva— the external parts. We were nudged to use mirrors to explore our bodies, which, while it may have seemed strange at the time, was necessary for self-care and understanding.
The Reality of Vaginas
Recent conversations, like a Twitter thread by Jamie Rivers, emphasize that vaginas are self-cleaning and possess elasticity that isn’t reliant on sexual activity. They are marvels of nature, and while it’s important to consult a doctor if something feels amiss, generally speaking, we should leave our vaginas be. The same goes for the vulva— if it’s functioning as it should, there’s no need for unnecessary alterations.
Unfortunately, societal influences, particularly from the porn industry, have skewed perceptions of what female genitalia should look like. The reality? Adult vulvas and vaginas do not resemble prepubescent forms of smooth perfection. Alarmingly, Dr. Sarah Morgan, a leading figure in adolescent gynecology, reports that girls as young as nine have sought labiaplasty, reflecting a troubling trend toward perceived “ideal” genital aesthetics. However, she emphasizes that none of the girls she encountered actually needed the surgery.
“There is absolutely no scientific basis for labiaplasty,” Dr. Morgan stated in an article featured in The Guardian. “The risks associated with surgery, particularly for teenagers still developing both physically and psychologically, are significant.”
Celebrating Diversity in Anatomy
The findings from the Lucerne study align well with the health guide provided by the British Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (BritSPAG), titled “So What Is A Vulva Anyway?” Both resources celebrate the diversity of female anatomy and reaffirm that averages do not define “normal.” The measurements may vary widely, but there is no singular standard for the appearance of vulvas and vaginas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, every vagina and vulva is unique, so let’s ease up on the fixation with surgeries like labiaplasty. Your anatomy is perfectly you, and embracing that individuality is key.
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