• Our Bodies
• Female Body

How does your vagina look like?

By Love Matters Kenya on

If you were shown pictures of two vaginas, would you know which one is yours?

What I am trying to ask is, do you know how your vulva and vagina look like?

Every woman or girl must know what their genitals look like. In the same way that you would identify your nose from a list of ten, you should be able to identify your vulva and vagina. 

It is important to see your genitals like any other part of the body.

The vulva is the outer part of the female genitalia and has several parts. They include the labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), the clitoris, the vagina opening, as well as the urethra.

Lots of people refer the vulva area as the vagina, but actually, the vagina is the canal – it is where penetration occurs during sex. 

Why is it important to know?

Well first, is is your body part, in the same way you already know what your toe looks like, you also owe your vagina the same effort.

Second, knowing about how your vagina, or vulva, looks like is important because it helps women and girls know and recognize potential health changes, issues, or abnormalities. This ensures that they take action by seeking medical care.

Third, getting familiar with your vagina builds body confidence, comfort and this makes it easier for one to see the value of overall self-care of the vagina and vulva.

How do I check what it looks like?

The first thing is to get a mirror for specifically exploring down there. You can sit, stand, or squat in a comfortable position, spread your legs, and place the mirror where you can see your genital area well. If you can’t see well, spread your legs wider or check the lighting in the room. When you have a good view, what you usually see first is the vulva.

Take a good look at your vulva. Note the following:

• What does it look like?
• What color is it?
• What’s its size?
• What’s its shape? 
• How well do you know your vulva and her neighbors, including the vagina?

Remember! It is important to note that no two vulvas are the same. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. The good news is that all these differences are normal.

A normal vulva is shaped like yours with properly functioning parts.

To view the vagina, gently spread the labia (lips) apart and put the mirror at an angle such that you see the vagina – canal. The walls of your vagina should be pinkish. If you’re comfortable, you can put your finger inside your vagina. Get to feel the texture. You may notice that the texture feels somewhat like the roof of your mouth.

Anytime you notice anything unusual it is important to check in with your doctor just to make sure everything is okay.

Also, there is no limit on the number of times you can look at your vulva. You can do it any time you feel like checking up on her.  You need to take a good look at your girl often.

Do you know how your vulva and vagina look like?