The vulva
The vulva is a group of female sex organs that can be seen from outside of the body.
It includes the vaginal opening. The vagina is the muscular canal in the
Structure
The vulva is made up of several sex organs.
The labia majora are 2 outer skin folds that look like lips. They cover and protect the other external sex organs. During sexual stimulation, the labia majora may become swollen with blood.
The labia minora are 2 smaller skin folds just inside the labia majora. They cover the vaginal and urethral opening.
The clitoris is a small organ in front of the labia minora. It has many nerve endings. During sexual stimulation, the clitoris becomes swollen and erect with blood.
The urethral opening is the opening of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that connects to the bladder and allows urine to leave the body. The urethral opening is found just under the clitoris.
The vaginal opening is the opening to the vagina. The vagina is the muscular canal leading to the cervix.
The Bartholin glands are found just inside the vulva. They produce a thick fluid, which acts as lubricant during sexual intercourse.
The Skene’s glands are located on either side of the urethra as 2 small ducts. They produce a fluid that lubricates the urethral opening during urination (peeing) and also lubricates the vagina during sexual intercourse.
The perineum is the space between the vulva and the anus.
The anus is the opening at the lower end of the rectum (the last section of the large intestine) through which stool (poop) is passed from the body.
Function
The vulva protects the internal (within the pelvis) sex organs and gives sexual pleasure.
Find out more about female sex organs and reproductive system.
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