Anatomy of the genital organs. Anatomy of the female genital organs: details about the structure of the female organs. Types of labia minora in women

The labia majora and minora are part of a woman's external genitalia. The labia majora are two folds of skin supplied with adipose tissue and venous plexuses. They contain fluids that are necessary to maintain moisture in the vestibule of the vagina. The labia majora begin at the pubis and end at the perineum. Between them there is a genital gap.

The labia minora are located inside the labia majora, but can sometimes protrude beyond them. They look like two skin folds located longitudinally. The labia minora originate from the head of the clitoris, pass through the urethra, vestibule and vagina and, connecting at the back, form a commissure. The organs are distinguished by abundant blood supply and innervation. They contain many different glands.

The function of the labia majora is to protect the vestibule organs from mechanical stress and prevent infection of the genitourinary system. The labia minora are the second layer of protection against infection of the vagina and urethra, and are also largely involved in moisturizing the mucous membrane. In addition, the labia minora take an active part in sexual intercourse. During sex, additional stimulation of the penis occurs with the help of the labia minora. But organs are also involved in a woman's orgasm. Despite the fact that one of the main erogenous zones female body is the clitoris, the labia minora are amplifiers of pleasant sensations during sexual intercourse. Because the labia are attached to the clitoris, their movement during sex provides additional stimulation, which helps achieve orgasm.

Types of female labia

The shape and size of the labia minora are individual for each woman. On average, their thickness is half a centimeter, and length 2-4 cm. There are several classifications of the labia minora. By lenght:

• Short (there is a shortening of the distance from the clitoris to the posterior commissure, which is why the organs do not perform their protective function, since they do not close);
• Long (closing, forming additional folds).

According to edge modifications:

• Smooth (very rare);
• Serrated (like cockscombs, observed most often and in many cases are asymmetrical).

By thickness:

• Thin (occurs in adolescents and is characterized by a lack of volume);
• Thick (have significant volume, characterized by decreased turgor).

It should be noted that all of the above variants of the labia minora are normal variants and do not require any correction.

Organ deformities and their causes

Sometimes it happens that the labia minora do not correspond to any of the normal options. In such cases, we talk about deformations, of which the most common are:

1. Hypertrophy (the usual protrusion of skin folds beyond the genital opening is not called hypertrophy, this term implies a total increase in length, thickness and volume, which results in very large labia, causing significant discomfort during sexual intercourse and in everyday life);
2. Elongation (the essence of this deformation is to increase the length of the skin fold with its maximum stretching; depending on the stage, it can vary from 2 to more than 6 cm);
3. Protrusion (this term refers to the protrusion of the labia minora beyond the labia majora, and this phenomenon is not always a deviation from the norm, only in the most advanced cases);
4. Asymmetry (various length and volume of the labia).

Also among the changes in the labia minora one can distinguish their depigmentation or, conversely, hyperpigmentation. More often the second is determined. It is not known exactly what the size and shape of the labia depends on, but there are several reasons:

• Hereditary factor (most often the shape of the labia is embedded in the genes of the female body);
• Hormonal imbalance (increased production of male sex hormones);
• Prematurity and birth trauma (can lead to underdevelopment of any organs and genitals, including);
• Involutionary processes in the body (aging leads to a decrease in turgor and skin elasticity);
• Traumatization;
• Masturbation (it is not completely known whether protrusion of the labia actually occurs during masturbation, but, as practice shows, this is possible);
• Childbirth;
• Various infections and chronic diseases of the genitourinary system;
• Congenital anomalies.

Correction and reduction of the labia minora

For women who have certain complexes or are not sure whether men like large labia, there is such plastic surgery as. This operation is performed to restore the correct shape of the skin folds in case of any deformation. There are no direct indications for surgery. The operation is performed only at the request of the woman. However, like any therapy, this correction has its contraindications:

1. Age up to 18 years (it is not advisable to make changes, since the lips are not yet fully developed);
2. Any infectious, bacterial, fungal diseases in the genital area;
3. Tumor processes;
4. Mental disorders.

To undergo labiaplasty, you should first visit a gynecologist. After consulting with a doctor, you will need to undergo some standard tests, and only then go for surgery. Labia reduction is best done a couple of weeks after the end of menstruation.

This operation is called a one-day operation, since its duration does not exceed one hour, and after the procedure the girl can immediately go home. Anesthesia is most often local, but depending on individual cases, it can also be general. Any discomfort, pain or swelling will disappear within a week. But the resumption of sexual activity should be postponed for a couple of weeks. During rehabilitation, which lasts several weeks, in addition to abstaining from sex, you should avoid open bodies of water, elevated temperatures and excessive physical activity. To prevent infection, antibiotics are prescribed for the first 5 days after surgery. Complications:

• Prolonged pain syndrome;
• Sensitivity disorders in the labia minora;
• Impaired regeneration in a surgical wound;
• Lack of closure of the genital slit, which leads to vaginal gaping;
• Violation of the protective and moisturizing functions of the labia minora;
• during childbirth.

These complications are quite rare, but you should still keep them in mind before deciding to undergo labiaplasty. It should be understood that any surgical intervention on the body can lead to unexpected consequences. And if there is no vital need for it, then it is better not to risk it. We also must not forget that most types of labia minora are normal variants and do not need correction. The operation is advisable only in cases where enlarged or, conversely, small labia bring significant discomfort to everyday life.

The labia minora (labia minora pudendi, internal) are part of the female reproductive system and consist of two folds or “lips” - skin on the outside of the vagina, located longitudinally inward from the labia majora; they are the same color as their inner surface; with their free edges they can sometimes protrude from the genital slit.

The main role of these small folds is to protect the clitoris, urethra and vulva.

Anatomically, the base of the labia minora is separated from the external lips by an interlabial groove. The anterior section of each of the labia minora is divided into two legs - outer and inner. The inner, or lower, legs of both lips, connecting with each other and attaching from the back to the head of the clitoris, form the frenulum of the clitoris, and both outer, or upper, legs, connecting on the back of the clitoris, form the foreskin of the clitoris on the side of its upper surface.

Approximately in the middle of the inner surface of the outer lips, you can see how the small posterior lips gradually merge with them or connect with one another, forming a frenulum. In their thickness lie venous vessels resembling cavernous bodies, nerves, arteries, as well as elastic fibers and smooth muscle fibers; The skin contains sebaceous glands.

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SIZES OF THE LAVA MIRA.

Until about 9-10 years of age, the inner labia are really very small. But the situation changes from the moment when nature begins to prepare the girl for the role of a woman. Now the influence of the hormone estrogen awakens to life everything that is intended for sex and reproduction. Starting from the age of 10-14, all girls, without exception, experience growth and enlargement of the labia minora to adult sizes, but in some this process occurs slowly and barely noticeably, in others it quickly and manifests itself more visibly.

The lips are often asymmetrical, which in practical terms means that they are usually slightly different sizes or lengths, and one side may hang lower than the other. In most cases, this does not indicate any problems and is in fact considered “normal” for most women. The only time this may indicate a problem is when one side suddenly swells and is accompanied by burning, itching or redness. This may indicate an infection or sexually transmitted disease.

2. WHAT DO THE LAVA MIRA LOOK LIKE?

Natural differences also appear in the appearance of the external genitalia, which in many ways resemble differences in the shape and size of developing breasts. In some, the genitals look almost the same as in childhood, in others, the small lips acquire a more expressive feminine appearance and become like wide petals of a bizarre shape. In 80% of girls under 10 years of age, the inner lips are hidden behind the outer lips, and in only 20% they are clearly visible before this age. In adult women, the appearance of the genitals changes noticeably. The external genitalia are clearly visible during external examination in more than half of women, and in about 30% of women, the inner lips are even larger in size than the outer ones.

3. COLOR OF THE LAVA MINOR

In healthy women, the inner labia have shades ranging from light to dark pink, sometimes brown or blackish-purple. A woman's overall skin tone does not always match the color of her labia, as some women who have dark brown complexions have light pink folds in their private parts, while some women with very fair complexions have vulvar skin organs are dark brown or gray in color. Almost any combination is considered normal, but if the area becomes blotchy or begins to change colors, it could indicate a skin disorder or rare skin cancer.

INFECTIONS AND INFLAMMATION OF THE LIPS MINARA

Infections often start in these areas due to their moisture, as well as their proximity to the urethra and vaginal opening. Initial symptoms of infections (itching, burning, swelling and discomfort) that occur on the skin of the labia minora then progress and spread to the vulva and vagina. Other complaints may include abdominal pain, burning sensation when urinating, and increased vaginal secretion. The most common causes of vulvaginal discomfort are thrush and bacterial vaginosis, and these can be successfully treated with medication. Sexually transmitted diseases, as causes of inflammation of the labia minora, also cause concern among gynecologists.

LABIA MINARA

In most cases, the size and shape of the labia minora do not matter to a woman. They can be almost invisible when viewed from the side or long enough to hang outward from the genital slit. Nature arranges it this way that they are rarely completely symmetrical. In some girls, one very large labia minora can constantly “pop out” (so-called “hypertrophy”). There is a special term - “Hottengot apron” - the intimate part of a woman with overdeveloped external genitalia, covering the entrance to the vagina and hanging far, far beyond the genital opening.

It happens that girls with overly developed genitals become the object of increased attention and even ridicule from friends in showers, saunas, locker rooms of fitness clubs, etc. places where you have to be naked. And, despite the fact that there is no generally accepted standard for their size, most women still prefer that they do not protrude too much outward, in other words, they do not look saggy, especially when looking at “that place” from behind.

Are your labia majora smaller than your labia minora?
(anonymous survey: answer and see how others are doing)

WHAT TO DO IF THE LAVA MINOR IS ENLARGEED?

Naturally, in intimate surgery there are operations to reduce their size. In order to achieve symmetry, the labia minora, which is larger in size, is resected, that is, partial removal of excess skin is carried out. This procedure is commonly known as labiaplasty surgery and is almost always performed for cosmetic reasons. In very rare cases, the folds can be so long that they actually interfere with sexual intercourse, maintaining hygiene in the area, or making it impossible to wear certain clothes - in this case the operation is performed for medical reasons.

Labia (labia) are a pair of female reproductive organs, which are divided into small (internal, pudendal) and large (external or external). Each of these organs has an individual structure and function. Together with the vagina and clitoris, they form the vulva.

Although in fact these are just small folds of skin, their importance for the normal functioning of the female body is great. The labia minora cover the vagina, protecting it from infections, maintaining a certain temperature and normal humidity. Too large or, conversely, small sizes of these protective folds can cause diseases of the genital organs, discomfort, and dry mucous membranes. Therefore, the aesthetics of the external genitals for every woman is no less important than the beauty of the face and figure.

External labia

The outer labia (also called “labia majora”) are two folds of skin located on the sides of the genital slit. Their main function is to protect the vagina from pathogenic factors. environment, as well as maintaining the required temperature in the female reproductive organs. Since they contain a minimal number of nerve endings, they are not an erogenous zone. In the thickness of the external labia there are Bartholin glands, adipose tissue and venous plexuses. On the outside there is pronounced hair. Very often their skin is subject to increased pigmentation. During sexual stimulation, the labia majora, along with the vaginal walls and clitoris, become engorged with blood. When stimulated, the Bartholin's glands (located near the vaginal opening) secrete fluid that provides lubrication for sexual intercourse.

The area between the vaginal opening and the anus, below the labia majora, is called the perineum. It ranges in length from 2 to 5 centimeters.

According to reviews from women and gynecologists, the labia change during pregnancy. This is considered a natural and normal process that is associated with changes in hormonal levels. Thus, when carrying a child, blood circulation in all pelvic organs increases, which leads to an enlargement of both the labia minora and the outer labia. Swelling of the external genitalia and discoloration are one of the likely symptoms of impending conception. About seven days after fertilization, the lips swell and become juicy and elastic. During pregnancy, varicose veins and various seals are often observed in the thickness of the labia majora, which usually disappear before childbirth.

Labia minora

Labia minora is part of the female reproductive system and consists of two “lips” or folds of skin on the outside of the vaginal opening. Each labia minora has two legs - outer and inner. The outer legs are attached to the back of the clitoris, and the inner legs are attached to the head of the clitoris (at the back). The main role of these small folds is to protect the clitoris, urethra and vulva.

APPEARANCE

Healthy women have labia minora that are light to dark pink, and sometimes brown or purple. A woman's overall skin tone does not always match the color of her private lips. So some women who have a dark brown complexion have light pink folds, while some women with a very fair complexion have private skin that is dark brown or purple. Pretty much any combination is considered normal, but if the area becomes dull or begins to change colors, it could indicate a skin disease or rare cancer. After pregnancy and childbirth, surgical operations, infectious diseases that cause tissue changes, their size usually increases.

Average statistical norms for the structure of the labia

Their physiological structure is the same in women, but the anatomical features are individual in each specific case. The types of labia are different: in some women they are large and thick, in others, on the contrary, they are thin and stretched. Appearance The labia minora depends on factors such as:

• genetics;
• ethnicity;
• body mass;
• age;
• features of intrauterine development;
• presence of vaginal diseases;
• the presence of mechanical influences;
• traumatic injuries;
• surgical interventions;
• religious beliefs (circumcision);
• hormone imbalance.

According to research, in 80% of cases, the anatomy and structure of a woman’s labia depends on genetic factors. The narrow and short labia minora often predominates among the French, Italians, and Greeks. Small sizes are also observed among Germans and Spaniards. Women living throughout the African or American continent often have narrow vaginas with long labia.

FUNCTION OF THE LAVADIA

These folds protect some of the most sensitive parts of the female genital anatomy. They cover the clitoris, which contains many sexual nerve endings, and are the shield of the vestibule of the vulva, which contains the openings of the urethra and vagina. The anatomical function is to seal the vaginal opening and protect the vagina from foreign bodies, drying out and the penetration of microbes. In addition, together with the fat pads of the outer labia, they provide mechanical protection.

In women, the opening of the urethra (urethra) is located at the top, between the labia, and they can act as a kind of regulator, directing the flow of urine in a certain direction and acting as a barrier, preventing urine from entering the vaginal cavity. However, with the excessive length of the labia minor and its deformations, emptying the bladder is accompanied by a random scattering of urine in the most unexpected directions.

During vaginal intercourse, the labia minora can help stimulate the entire vulva, clitoris, and vagina area of ​​the woman and her partner's penis. Stimulation of the clitoris can occur through the tension of its frenulum when pulling the inner labia with fingers or during friction.

SYMMETRY AND DIMENSIONS

The labia minora are often asymmetrical, which in practical terms means that they are usually slightly different sizes or lengths and one side may hang lower than the other. In most cases, this does not indicate any problems, and is in fact considered “normal” for most women. During puberty, a woman experiences many hormonal and subsequent changes in appearance. One of these changes occurs due to increased levels of estrogen in the body - an enlargement of the labia minora. In some cases this is genetically determined. Due to injury, constant friction, or in the case of chronic infections, Labia minora may increase in size. Pregnancy is a new, wonderful stage in a woman’s life, in which a rush of blood to the genital area can lead to a subsequent increase in the length and width of the labia minora.

INFECTION AND INFLAMMATION

For many women, the initial symptoms of sexually transmitted infections, especially itching, burning, swelling, discomfort, begin with irritation here and then spread to the vulva and vagina. Other symptoms that may occur are pain in the lower abdomen, burning when urinating, increased vaginal discharge that is thick, yellow, green, etc. The most common causes of inflammation of the labia minora are STDs, thrush and bacterial vaginosis.

Being very sensitive in their structure to any irritation and everything with a location in the area of ​​natural excretion (vagina, urethra, anus), where traces of urine, vaginal discharge, smegma and even feces may be present, the labia minora can suffer from inflammatory processes such as vulvitis It often begins in these folds of skin because... they are often wet and subject to constant mechanical stress. The likelihood of inflammation can be reduced by proper regular hygienic cleansing of the external genitalia, using water and proven products designed for women's delicate areas. It may also be interesting to sometimes carry out such a procedure as “vaginal cleaning” - general cleaning of an intimate area.

The vigorous rubbing of little girls' labia while cleaning themselves, coupled with a lack of estrogen in children's bodies, can lead to a condition known as "fused labia minora" or synechiae. They interfere with the normal process of urination, and urine can accumulate, causing pain and inflammation.

LABIA MAJOR AND GYNECOLOGIST

Many girls who are about to be examined by a gynecologist (at school, a clinic, during a medical examination at a antenatal clinic, etc.) are concerned about how the doctor will react to enlarged (long, dark, different sizes) labia? Is this defect recorded in the medical record, and are parents informed about the discovery? As for gynecologists, during medical examinations in one day they see dozens of variants of the structure of female intimate organs. Moreover, according to statistics, approximately 30% of all girls have enlarged labia minora. The gynecologist is not interested or concerned about this at all, since this is not a disease, but a variant of a normal structure, unless, of course, we take clinical cases of obvious hypertrophy. During a medical examination, the doctor has the task of identifying signs of various types of infections, the state of development of the reproductive tract, etc. And which labia the gynecologist usually does not note in the medical documentation. So there is no reason to worry.

CAUSES OF DEVIATIONS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES

For many women, unsightly anatomical variations in the genitals are a source of significant distress. Hormonal influences, tissue weakness, genetic factors or age-related changes can cause these changes in appearance. Enlarged labia minora and sagging external lips are perceived as especially undesirable. Inconveniences such as pain when wearing tight clothing during sports activities (horse riding, jogging, cycling), intussusception (recession) of the labia during sexual intercourse, as well as hygienic difficulties, can stimulate women to correct them. The strongest motivation is sometimes the psychological suffering experienced, which can affect sex life.

Kelly. Fundamentals of modern sexology. Ed. Peter

Translated from English by A. Golubev, K. Isupova, S. Komarov, V. Misnik, S. Pankov, S. Rysev, E. Turutina

The anatomical structure of the male and female reproductive organs, also called genitals, has been known for many hundreds of years, but reliable information about their functioning has only recently become available. Male and female genitalia perform many functions and play important role, participating in reproduction, and in receiving pleasure, and in the formation of trusting relationships in love.

Oddly enough, most popular sex education manuals traditionally consider the male genital organs primarily as a source of pleasant sexual sensations, and only then discuss their role in childbirth. When studying the female genital organs, the emphasis clearly shifts to the reproductive functions of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. The importance of the role of the vagina, clitoris and other external structures in sexual pleasure is often overlooked. In this and the next chapters, both the male and female genital organs are described as a potential source of intimacy in human relationships and sexual pleasure, as well as a potential source of the birth of children.

FEMALE GENITAL ORGANS

The female genital organs are not exclusively internal. Many of their important structures, located externally, play a large role in providing sexual arousal, while the internal parts of the female reproductive system are more significant in regulating hormonal cycles and reproductive processes.

The external female genitalia consists of the pubis, labia and clitoris. They are richly innervated and, due to this, sensitive to stimulation. The shape, size and pattern of pigmentation of the external genitalia vary greatly among women.

Vulva

The external female genitalia, located between the legs, below and in front of the pubic joint of the pelvic bones, is collectively called the vulva. The most noticeable of these organs is the pubis ( monsveneris)and labia majora (or labia majora) (labia majora). The pubis, sometimes called the pubic eminence, or the hill of Venus, is a rounded pad formed by subcutaneous fatty tissue and located above the rest of the external organs, just above pubic bone. During puberty it becomes covered with hair. The pubis is fairly well innervated, and most women find that friction or pressure in this area can be sexually arousing. The vulva is generally considered the main erogenous zone in women, as it is generally very sensitive to sexual stimulation.

The labia majora are two folds of skin directed from the pubis down towards the perineum. They may be relatively flat and subtle in some women and thick and visible in others. During puberty, the skin of the labia majora darkens slightly, and hair begins to grow on their outer lateral surface. These outer folds of skin cover and protect the more sensitive female genitals located inside. The latter cannot be seen unless the large lips are parted, so a woman may need a mirror that needs to be positioned so as to see these organs.

When the labia majora are spread apart, you can see another, smaller pair of folds - the labia minora (or pudenda). They look like two asymmetrical petals of skin, pink, hairless and irregularly shaped, which connect at the top and form the skin of the clitoris, called the foreskin. Both the labia majora and minora are sensitive to sexual stimulation and play an important role in sexual arousal. On the inside of the labia minora are the exit openings of the ducts of the Bartholin's glands, sometimes called the vulvovaginal glands. At the moment of sexual arousal, a small amount of secretion is released from these glands, which may help moisturize the vaginal opening and, to some extent, the labia. These secretions, however, are of little importance for lubrication of the vagina during sexual arousal, and any other functions of these glands are unknown. Bartholin's glands sometimes become infected with bacteria from feces or other sources, and in such cases, treatment by a specialist may be required. Between the labia minora there are two openings. In order to see them, the labia minora often need to be spread apart. Almost just below the clitoris is a tiny opening called the urethra, or urethra, through which urine is removed from the body. Below is the larger vaginal opening, or entrance to the vagina. This hole is usually not open and can only be perceived as such if something is inserted into it. For many women, especially those in younger age groups, the entrance to the vagina is partially covered by membrane-like tissue - the hymen.

Human reproductive organs are important for both reproduction and pleasure. Historically, sexuality educators have focused on reproductive function and the internal genital organs, especially in women. In recent years, these specialists have also begun to pay attention to those aspects of sexual behavior that are associated with receiving pleasure, and to the external genitalia.

Clitoris

The clitoris, the most sensitive of the female genital organs, is located just below the superior fusion of the labia minora. This is the only organ whose function is only to provide sensitivity to sexual stimulation and to be a source of pleasure.

The clitoris is the most sensitive female reproductive organ. Some form of clitoral stimulation is usually a prerequisite for achieving orgasm, although the most appropriate method varies from woman to woman. The most prominent part of the clitoris usually appears as a rounded projection protruding from under the foreskin, which is formed by the superior fusion of the labia minora. This outer, sensitive part of the clitoris is called the glans. For a long time, the clitoris has been likened to the male penis because it is sensitive to sexual stimulation and capable of erection. Sometimes they even incorrectly considered the clitoris to be an underdeveloped penis. In fact, the clitoris and its entire internal system of blood vessels, nerves and erectile tissue form a highly functional and important sexual organ (Ladas, 1989).

The body of the clitoris is located behind the glans under the foreskin. The glans is the only freely protruding part of the clitoris, and, as a rule, it is not particularly mobile. The part of the clitoris located behind the head is attached to the body along its entire length. The clitoris is formed by two columnar cavernous bodies and two bulbous corpora cavernosa, which are capable of filling with blood during sexual arousal, causing hardening, or erection, of the entire organ. The length of the non-erect clitoris rarely exceeds 2-3 cm, and in a non-excited state only its apex (head) is visible, but with erection it increases significantly, especially in diameter. As a rule, in the first stages of arousal, the clitoris begins to protrude more than in a non-aroused state, but as arousal increases, it retracts again.

The skin of the foreskin contains tiny glands that secrete a fatty substance, which, when mixed with the secretions of other glands, forms a substance called smegma. This substance accumulates around the body of the clitoris, sometimes leading to the development of a harmless infection that can cause pain or discomfort, especially during sexual activity. If smegma buildup becomes a problem, it can be removed by a doctor using a small probe inserted under the foreskin. Sometimes the foreskin is surgically incised slightly, further exposing the glans and body of the clitoris. This procedure, called circumcision in Western culture, is rarely performed on women, and doctors find little rational basis for it.

Vagina

The vagina is a tube with muscular walls and plays an important role as a female organ associated with childbirth and sexual pleasure. The muscular walls of the vagina are very elastic, and unless something is inserted into the vaginal cavity, they become compressed, so that the cavity is better described as a "potential" space. The length of the vagina is about 10 cm, although it can lengthen during sexual arousal. The inner surface of the vagina, elastic and soft, is covered with small ridge-like projections. The vagina is not particularly sensitive, except in areas immediately surrounding the opening or located deep from the opening to about one-third of the length of the vagina. This outer region, however, contains many nerve endings and its stimulation easily leads to sexual arousal.

The vaginal opening is surrounded by two muscle groups: the vaginal sphincter ( sphincter vaginae)and levator anus ( levator ani). Women are able to control these muscles to some extent, but tension, pain or fear can lead to involuntary contraction, which makes inserting objects into the vagina painful or impossible. These manifestations are called vaginismus. A woman can also regulate the tone of the internal pubococcygeus muscle, which, like the anal sphincter, can be contracted or relaxed. This muscle plays a certain role in the formation of orgasm, and its tone, like the tone of all voluntary contracting muscles, can be learned to be regulated with the help of special exercises.

It is important to note that the vagina cannot contract to such an extent that the penis will be held in it ( penis captivus),although it is possible that some have heard the opposite. In Africa, for example, there are many myths about people who become entangled during sex and have to go to hospital to be separated. Such myths appear to serve a social function of preventing adultery ( Ecker, 1994). When breeding dogs, the penis is erected in such a way that it is trapped in the vagina until the erection subsides, and this is necessary for successful mating. Nothing like this happens in people. During sexual arousal in women, a lubricant is released on the inner surface of the vaginal walls.

Douching

Over the years, women have developed a variety of methods for cleaning the vagina, sometimes called douching. It was believed to help prevent vaginal infections and eliminate bad odor. In a study of 8,450 women aged 15 to 44 years, it was found that 37% of them resorted to douching as part of their regular hygiene procedures (Aral , 1992). The practice is especially common among poor women and non-white minorities, for whom the rate can be as high as two-thirds. One National Black Women's Health Project participant ( Black Women's Health Project) speculated that douching may represent black women's response to negative sexual stereotypes. Meanwhile, research is providing growing evidence that douching, contrary to popular belief, can be dangerous. Thanks to it, pathogens can penetrate the uterine cavity, which increases the risk of uterine and vaginal infections. Women who douche more than three times a month are at four times higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease than those who do not douche at all. The vagina has natural cleaning mechanisms that can be disrupted by douching. Unless specifically indicated for medical reasons, douching should be avoided.

Hymen

The hymen is a thin, delicate membrane that partially covers the entrance to the vagina. It can cross the vaginal opening, surround it, or have several openings of varying shapes and sizes. The physiological functions of the hymen are unknown, but historically it had psychological and cultural significance as a sign of virginity.

The hymen, present at the vaginal opening from birth, usually has one or more holes. There are many different shaped hymens that cover the vaginal opening to varying degrees. The most common type is the annular hymen. In this case, its tissue is located around the perimeter of the entrance to the vagina, and there is a hole in the center. Some types of hymen tissue extend to the opening of the vagina. The ethmoid hymen completely covers the opening of the vagina, but it itself has many small holes. The hymen is a single strip of tissue that divides the opening of the vagina into two clearly visible openings. Occasionally, girls are born with a closed hymen, that is, the latter completely covers the vaginal opening. This can only become clear with the onset of menstruation, when fluid accumulates in the vagina and causes discomfort. In such cases, the doctor must make a small hole in the hymen to allow the flow of menstrual fluid.

In most cases, the hymen has a hole large enough for a finger or tampon to fit through. Attempting to insert a larger object, such as an erect penis, usually results in rupture of the hymen. There are many other circumstances, unrelated to sexual activity, in which the hymen can become damaged. Although it is often claimed that some girls are born without a hymen, recent evidence casts doubt on whether this is actually the case. More recently, a group of pediatricians at the University of Washington examined 1,131 newborn girls and found that each had an intact hymen. From this it was concluded that the absence of a hymen at birth was very unlikely, if not impossible. It also follows that if the hymen is not found in a little girl, the cause is most likely some kind of trauma (Jenny, Huhns, & Arakawa, 1987).

Sometimes the hymen is stretchable enough to survive sexual intercourse. Therefore, the presence of a hymen is an unreliable indicator of virginity. Some peoples attach special importance to the presence of a hymen and establish special rituals for tearing a girl’s hymen before first copulation.

In the United States, between 1920 and 1950, some gynecologists performed special surgery for women who were getting married but did not want their husbands to know that they were not virgins. The operation, called the “lover's knot,” consisted of placing one or two sutures on the labia minora so that a thin closure appeared between them. During intercourse on the wedding night, the bow broke, causing some pain and bleeding (Janus & Janus, 1993). Many in Western society to this day believe that the presence of a hymen proves virginity, which is naive at best. In reality, the only way to physically determine whether copulation has taken place is to detect sperm in a vaginal smear using a chemical test or microscopic examination. This procedure must be performed within a few hours of sexual intercourse, and in cases of rape it is sometimes used to prove that penile-vaginal penetration has occurred.

A rupture of the hymen during sexual intercourse for the first time can cause discomfort or pain and possibly some bleeding when the hymen is torn. The pain can vary from mild to severe among women. If a woman is concerned that her first intercourse will be painless, she can use her fingers to widen the opening of the hymen in advance. The doctor may also remove the hymen or stretch the opening using dilators of increasing size. However, if your partner gently and carefully inserts the erect penis into the vagina, using adequate lubrication, there will usually be no problems. A woman can also guide her partner's penis herself, adjusting the speed and depth of its penetration.

Self-examination of the genital organs by a woman

After becoming familiar with the basics of their external anatomy, women are encouraged to examine their genitals monthly, paying attention to any unusual signs and symptoms. Using a mirror and appropriate lighting, you should examine the condition of the skin under the pubic hair. Then you should pull back the skin of the foreskin of the clitoris and spread the labia minora, which will allow you to better examine the area around the vaginal openings and urethra. Keep an eye out for any unusual swelling, abrasions, or rashes. They may be red or pale, but sometimes they are easier to detect not visually, but by touch. Do not forget to also examine the inner surface of the labia majora and minora. It is also advisable, knowing what your vaginal discharge looks like in normal condition, to pay attention to any changes in its color, smell or consistency. Although certain abnormalities can usually occur during the menstrual cycle, some diseases cause easily noticeable changes in vaginal discharge.

If you notice any unusual swelling or discharge, you should immediately consult a gynecologist. Often all these symptoms are completely harmless and do not require any treatment, but sometimes they signal the onset of an infectious process when medical attention is necessary. It is also important to tell your doctor about any pain or burning when urinating, bleeding between periods, pain in the pelvic area, and any itchy rashes around the vagina.

Uterus

The uterus is a hollow muscular organ in which the growth and nutrition of the fetus occurs until the very moment of birth. The walls of the uterus have different thicknesses in different places and consist of three layers: perimetry, myometrium and endometrium. To the right and left of the uterus there is one almond-shaped ovary. The two functions of the ovaries are the secretion of the hormones estrogen and progesterone and the production of eggs and their subsequent release from the ovary.

The cervix protrudes into the deepest part of the vagina. The uterus itself is a thick-walled muscular organ that provides a nutrient medium for the developing fetus during pregnancy. As a rule, it is pear-shaped, approximately 7-8 cm in length and about 5-7 cm in diameter at the top, tapering to 2-3 cm in diameter in the part that protrudes into the vagina. During pregnancy, it gradually increases to a much larger size. When a woman stands, her uterus is almost horizontal and at right angles to the vagina.

The two main parts of the uterus are the body and the cervix, connected by a narrower isthmus. The top of the wide part of the uterus is called its fundus. Although the cervix is ​​not particularly sensitive to superficial touch, it can sense pressure. The opening in the cervix is ​​called the os. The internal cavity of the uterus has different widths different levels. The walls of the uterus consist of three layers: a thin outer layer - the perimeter, a thick intermediate layer of muscle tissue - the myometrium and an inner layer rich in blood vessels and glands - the endometrium. The endometrium plays a key role in menstrual cycle and in the nutrition of the developing fetus.

Internal gynecological examination

The uterus, especially the cervix, is one of the common sites for cancer in women. Because uterine cancer can remain asymptomatic for many years, it is particularly dangerous. Women should undergo periodic internal gynecological examinations and Pap smear tests from a qualified gynecologist. There is disagreement among experts about how often this examination should be done, but most recommend doing it annually. Thanks to the Pap smear, the death rate from cervical cancer was reduced by 70%. Approximately 5,000 women die in the United States from this form of cancer each year, 80% of whom have not had a Pap smear in the past 5 years or more.

During a gynecological examination, first of all, a vaginal speculum is carefully inserted into the vagina, which holds the vaginal walls in an expanded state. This allows direct examination of the cervix. To take the Pap smear (named after its developer, Dr. Papanicolaou), a thin spatula or stem-mounted swab is used to painlessly remove a number of cells from the cervix while the speculum remains in place. A smear is prepared from the collected material, which is fixed, stained and examined under a microscope, looking for any possible indications of changes in the structure of cells that may indicate the development of cancer or precancerous manifestations. In 1996, the Food and Drug Administration ( Food and Drug Administration) approved a new method for preparing a smear by the Pope, which eliminates the entry of excess mucus and blood into it, which makes it difficult to detect altered cells. This made the test even more effective and reliable than before. Recently, it has become possible to use another device, which, when attached to a vaginal speculum, illuminates the cervix with light specially selected for its spectral composition. Under such lighting, normal and abnormal cells differ from each other in color. This greatly facilitates and speeds up the identification of suspicious areas of the cervix that should be subjected to a more thorough examination.

After removing the speculum, a manual examination is performed. Using a rubber glove and lubricant, the doctor inserts two fingers into the vagina and presses them on the cervix. The other hand is placed on the stomach. In this way, the doctor is able to feel the overall shape and size of the uterus and surrounding structures.

If suspicious cells are detected in the Pap smear, more intensive diagnostic procedures are recommended. First of all, to determine the presence of malignant cells, you can resort to a biopsy. If an increase in the number of abnormal cells is shown, another procedure called dilatation and curettage (dilation and curettage) can be performed. The opening of the cervix widens, which allows you to insert a special instrument - a uterine curette - into the internal cavity of the uterus. A number of cells from the inner layer of the uterus are carefully scraped off and examined for the presence of malignant cells. Typically, dilation and curettage is used to clear the uterus of dead tissue after a miscarriage (involuntary abortion), and sometimes to terminate a pregnancy during an induced abortion.

Ovaries and fallopian tubes

On both sides of the uterus, two almond-shaped glands called ovaries are attached to it using the inguinal (pupart) ligaments. The two main functions of the ovaries are the secretion of female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and the production of eggs necessary for reproduction. Each ovary is approximately 2-3 cm long and weighs about 7 grams. At birth, a woman's ovary contains tens of thousands of microscopic sacs called follicles, each of which contains a cell that can potentially develop into an egg. These cells are called oocytes. It is believed that by the time of puberty, only a few thousand follicles remain in the ovaries, and only a small fraction of these (400 to 500) will ever develop into mature eggs.

In a mature woman, the surface of the ovary is irregular in shape and covered with pits - marks left after the release of many eggs through the ovarian wall during the process of ovulation, described below. By examining the internal structure of the ovary, one can observe follicles at different stages of development. Two different zones are also distinguishable: the central medulla and a thick outer layer, cortex. A pair of fallopian, or fallopian, tubes lead from the edge of each ovary into the upper part of the uterus. The end of each fallopian tube, which opens next to the ovary, is covered with fringed projections - fimbriae, which are not attached to the ovary, but rather loosely encircle it. Following the fimbriae is the widest part of the tube - funnel. It leads into a narrow, irregularly shaped cavity stretching along the entire tube, which gradually narrows as it approaches the uterus.

The inner layer of the fallopian tube is covered with microscopic cilia. It is through the movement of these cilia that the egg travels from the ovary to the uterus. For conception to occur, a sperm must meet and penetrate the egg while it is in one of the fallopian tubes. In this case, the already fertilized egg is transported further into the uterus, where it attaches to its wall and begins to develop into an embryo.

CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

Mariam Razak was 15 when her family locked her in a room where five women held her struggling to escape while a sixth cut off her clitoris and labia.

The event left Mariam with a lingering feeling of being betrayed by the people she loved most: her parents and her boyfriend. Now, nine years later, she believes that the operation and the infection it caused robbed her of not only her ability to be sexually satisfied, but also her ability to have children.

It was love that led Mariam to this mutilation. She and her childhood friend, Idrissou Abdel Razak, say they had sex as teenagers and then he decided they should get married.

Without telling Mariam, he asked his father, Idrissa Seibu, to approach her family for permission to marry. His father offered a significant dowry, and Mariam's parents gave their consent, while she herself was told nothing.

“My son and I asked her parents to circumcise her,” says Idrissu Seibu. - Other girls, who were warned in advance, ran away. That's why we decided not to tell her what would be done."

On the day scheduled for the operation, Mariam's boyfriend, a 17-year-old taxi driver, was working in Sokode, a town north of Kpalime. Today he is ready to admit that he knew about the upcoming ceremony, but did not warn Mariam. Mariam herself now believes that together they could find a way to deceive her parents and convince them that she went through with the procedure, if only her boyfriend would support her.

When he returned, he learned that she had to be rushed to the hospital because the bleeding did not stop. She developed an infection in hospital and remained there for three weeks. But while her body was healing, she said, her feelings of bitterness intensified.

And she decided not to marry a man who failed to protect her. She borrowed $20 from a friend and took a cheap taxi to Nigeria, where she lived with friends. It took her parents nine months to find her and bring her home.

It took her boyfriend another six years to regain her trust. He bought her clothes, shoes and jewelry as gifts. He told her that he loved her and begged for forgiveness. Eventually her anger mellowed and they married in 1994. Since then they have lived in his father's house.

But Mariam Razak knows what she's lost. She and her now-husband made love in their youth, before she underwent FGM, and she said sex brought her great satisfaction. Now, they both say, she doesn't feel anything. She compares the permanent loss of sexual satisfaction to an incurable disease that stays with you until you die.

“When he goes into town, he buys drugs that he gives me before we have sex to make me feel pleasure. But it’s not the same,” says Mariam.

Her husband agrees: “Now that she's circumcised, there's something missing in that area. She doesn't feel anything there. I try to please her, but it doesn’t work very well.”

And their sorrows do not end there. They are also unable to conceive a child. They turned to doctors and traditional healers - all to no avail.

Idrissou Abdel Razak promises that he will not take another wife, even if Mariam does not become pregnant: “I have loved Mariam since we were children. We will continue to look for a way out."

And if they ever have daughters, he promises to send them away from the country to protect them from having their genitals cut off. Source : S. Dugger. The New York Times METRO, 11 September 1996

Female genital mutilation

Across cultures and historical periods, the clitoris and labia have been subjected to various types of surgical procedures that have resulted in female mutilation. Based on the widespread fear of masturbation since mid-2000s XIX century and until about 1935, doctors in Europe and the United States often circumcised women, that is, they removed, partially or completely, the clitoris - a surgical procedure called clitoridectomy. These measures were believed to "cure" masturbation and prevent insanity. In some African and East Asian cultures and religions, clitoridectomy, sometimes incorrectly called "female circumcision", is still practiced as part of the rites of passage into adulthood. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 120 million women worldwide have undergone some form of what is now called female genital mutilation. Until recently, almost all girls in countries such as Egypt, Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan underwent this operation. Although it can sometimes take the form of traditional circumcision, which removes the tissue covering the clitoris, more often the glans of the clitoris is also removed. Sometimes an even more extensive clitoridectomy is performed, which involves removing the entire clitoris and a significant amount of surrounding labia tissue. As a rite of passage marking a girl's transition to adulthood, clitoridectomy signifies the removal of all traces of "male characteristics": since the clitoris in these cultures is traditionally seen as a miniature penis, its absence is recognized as the ultimate symbol of femininity. But in addition, clitoridectomy also reduces a woman's sexual satisfaction, which is important in those cultures where men are considered responsible for controlling women's sexuality. Various taboos are established to support this practice. In Nigeria, for example, some women believe that if the baby's head touches the clitoris during childbirth, the baby will develop a mental disorder ( Ecker, 1994). Some cultures also practice infibulation, in which the labia minora and sometimes the labia majora are removed and the edges of the outer part of the vagina are stitched or held together using plant thorns or natural adhesives, thus ensuring that the woman will not have intercourse before marriage. The bonding material is removed before marriage, although the procedure may be repeated if the husband intends to be away for a long time. This often results in the formation of rough scar tissue that can make urination, menstruation, copulation and childbirth more difficult and painful. Infibulation is common in cultures where virginity is highly valued in marriage. When women who undergo this operation are chosen as brides, they bring significant benefits to their families in the form of money, property and livestock (Eskeg, 1994).

These rites are often performed with crude instruments and without the use of anesthesia. Girls and women undergoing such procedures often become infected with serious illnesses, and the use of unsterile instruments can lead to AIDS. Girls sometimes die as a result of bleeding or infection caused by this operation. In addition, there is growing evidence that such ritual surgery can lead to serious psychological trauma, with lasting effects on women's sexuality, marital life and childbearing (Lightfoot - Klein, 1989; MacFarquhar, 1996). The influence of civilization has brought some improvements to traditional practices, so that in some places today aseptic methods are already used to reduce the risk of infection. For some time, Egyptian health authorities have encouraged this operation to be carried out in medical institutions to avoid possible complications, while simultaneously providing family counseling to end this custom. In 1996, the Egyptian Ministry of Health decided to ban all health workers in both public and private clinics from performing any type of female genital mutilation. However, it is believed that many families will continue to turn to local healers to carry out these ancient prescriptions.

There is growing condemnation of the practice, which is seen by some groups as barbaric and sexist. In the United States, the issue has come under greater scrutiny as it now becomes clear that some girls from immigrant families from more than 40 countries may have undergone the procedure in the United States. A woman named Fauzia Kasinga fled the African country of Togo in 1994 to avoid mutilation surgery and eventually came to the States illegally. She applied for asylum, but an immigration judge initially dismissed her case as unpersuasive. After she spent over one year in prison, the Board of Immigration Appeals ruled in 1996 that female genital mutilation did constitute an act of persecution and was a valid basis for granting asylum to women (Dugger , 1996). While such practices are sometimes seen as a cultural imperative that should be respected, this ruling and other developments in developed countries underscore the idea that such operations constitute a human rights violation that must be condemned and stopped ( Rosenthal, 1996).

Female genital mutilation often has deep roots in the entire lifestyle of a culture, reflecting a patriarchal tradition in which women are viewed as the property of men and female sexuality is subordinated to male sexuality. This custom can be regarded as a fundamental component of initiation rites, symbolizing the girl's acquisition of the status of an adult woman, and therefore serve as a source of pride. But with increasing attention to human rights around the world, including in developing countries, opposition to such practices is growing. There is fierce debate in those countries where these procedures continue to be used. Younger women more familiar with Western lifestyles - often with the support of their husbands - are calling for initiation rites to be made more symbolic in order to retain the positive cultural meaning of the traditional ritual but avoid painful and dangerous surgery. Feminists in the Western world have been particularly vocal on this issue, arguing that such procedures are not only dangerous to health, but are also an attempt to emphasize the dependent position of women. Such disputes represent a classic example of the clash between culture-specific customs and changing global views on sexuality and gender issues.

Definitions

CLITOR - organ sensitive to sexual stimulation located in the upper part of the vulva; When sexually aroused, it fills with blood.

HEAD OF THE CLITOR - the outer, sensitive part of the clitoris, located at the upper fusion of the labia minora.

BODY OF THE CLITORIUM - an elongated part of the clitoris containing tissue that can fill with blood.

VULVA - external female genitalia, including the pubis, labia majora and minora, clitoris and vaginal opening.

PUBIS - an elevation formed by adipose tissue and located above the woman’s pubic bone.

LABIA MAJOR - two outer folds of skin covering the labia minora, clitoris and openings of the urethra and vagina.

LAVIDA MIRA - two folds of skin within the space bounded by the large lips, joining above the clitoris and located on the sides of the openings of the urethra and vagina.

FORESKE - in women, the tissue at the top of the vulva covering the body of the clitoris.

BARTHOLINIY GLANDS - small glands, the secretion of which is released during sexual arousal through excretory ducts that open at the base of the labia minora.

OPENING OF THE URETHRAL CHANNEL - hole through which urine is removed from the body.

ENTRANCE TO THE VAGINA - external opening of the vagina.

VIRGIN HYMN - a connective tissue membrane that may partially cover the entrance to the vagina.

SMEGMA - a thick, oily substance that can accumulate under the foreskin of the clitoris or penis.

CIRCUMCISION - in women - a surgical operation that exposes the body of the clitoris, during which its foreskin is cut.

INFIBULATION is a surgical procedure used in some cultures in which the edges of the vaginal opening are sealed.

CLITORODECTOMY - surgical removal of the clitoris, a common procedure in some cultures.

VAGINISM - involuntary spasm of the muscles located at the entrance to the vagina, making penetration into it difficult or impossible.

pubococcygeal MUSCLE - part of the muscles that support the vagina, is involved in the formation of orgasm in women; women are able to control its tone to some extent.

VAGINA - a muscular canal in a woman’s body that is susceptible to sexual arousal and into which sperm must enter during sexual intercourse for conception to occur.

UTERUS - a muscular organ within the female reproductive system in which a fertilized egg is implanted.

CERVIX - the narrower part of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina.

ISTHmus - narrowing of the uterus directly above its cervix.

FUND (UTERUS) - wide upper part of the uterus.

ZEV - opening in the cervix leading into the uterine cavity.

PERIMETERIES - outer layer of the uterus.

MYOMETRIUM - middle, muscular layer of the uterus.

ENDOMETRIUM - the inner layer of the uterus lining its cavity.

SWAB DAD - microscopic examination of a preparation of cells taken by scraping from the surface of the cervix, carried out to detect any cellular abnormalities.

BARRIERS - a pair of female reproductive glands (gonads) located in the abdominal cavity and producing eggs and female sex hormones.

EGG - female reproductive cell formed in the ovary; fertilized by a sperm.

FOLLICLE - a conglomerate of cells surrounding a maturing egg.

OOCYTES - cells are the precursors of eggs.

FALLOPIAN TUBES - structures associated with the uterus that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterine cavity.

The appearance of each woman is individual, each is beautiful in her own way, each has her own advantages and disadvantages. But it’s not just the external qualities that are different. The internal structure is also special. The structure of each woman’s vagina is unique, it (the vagina) has its own color (dark or light, purple or pinkish), its own shape (regular or slightly flabby), and its own elasticity. In this article we will talk about the sexual characteristics of women.

Types of female labia

There are two main types for all women without pathologies in the body - large and small. Each has its own function and purpose.

The labia majora perform a protective function, closing the vagina from the penetration of infections and foreign bodies. They consist of folds of skin, the color can be very different.

The labia minora wrap around the penis when penetrating the vulva. The normal thickness, according to experts, is about 7 mm. The folds of the labia minora begin at the clitoris and end at the vagina.

Classification of the labia majora

1. The length and thickness are normal.
2. The length and thickness are asymmetrical.
3. The labia are underdeveloped.

Classification of the labia minora

Experts classify the labia minora according to the changes they undergo:

1. Elongation (stretching).
2. Protrusion (protrusion of the labia).
3. Scalloping (color and shape changes).
4. True hypertrophy of folds (wrinkles and pigmentation).
5. Absence of labia minora.

Why are changes happening?

All changes in the body occur due to excess or lack of hormones, previous injuries, childbirth, and sudden weight loss. Certain types of labia change and may change into other known or unknown ones.

Young girls under 25 are at risk; their bodies are most susceptible to changes.

It is worth remembering that the shape and color of the labia are not specified anywhere, that is, they can be completely different, women should not worry or have complexes because of this. However, if something causes inconvenience in ordinary life and during sexual intercourse, you should consult a doctor. All pathologies and changes are corrected surgically.

Changes in the type of labia can also occur due to frequent masturbation, improper underwear or tight clothing, and painful sexual intercourse.

Is surgery the only option?

Although modern medicine can help quickly and painlessly through various operations, many women are wary of them. For minor changes, medication treatment will help.

Alternative medicine offers compresses, ointments and creams of herbal origin, massage and various exercises.

How to protect yourself from changes?

In order to prevent operations and medications, it is better to adhere to certain rules that will preserve such fragile women's health.

• Comfortable underwear and comfortable clothes.
• Avoiding stressful situations.
• Regular sex and a healthy relationship with your partner.
• Sleep 7-8 hours a day.
• Sports lifestyle.
• Healthy and, most importantly, delicious food.

Finally, we come to the purpose of the article.

Types of labia

Each girl is individual, and the structure of the vagina is unique. But still, despite this, experts identify the main types of labia.

Who was the first to identify these types? There is an interesting assumption that the hairdresser of the intimate area was the first to do this.

5 types of labia:

Horseshoe (Ms. Horseshoe). The labia minora are visible, but they are covered on top by the labia majora, which protect against the penetration of foreign objects.

1. Dollhouses (Barbie). Everything is clear here, small lips under large ones, neat shape.
2. Flower (Tulip). The labia minora peek out from under the labia majora and are at the same level.
3. Pie. Similar to doll ones, but more plump or flabby, deformed.
4. Blinds (Curtain). The labia minora are located below the labia majora.

This is what the types of labia look like in the photo:

1. Horseshoe.

2. Puppet.

3. Flower.

4. Pie.

5. Curtains.

Rules for female intimate hygiene

This is an integral part of caring for a woman’s body, because proper care- This is a guarantee of genital health. Intimate hygiene is directly related to the topic of the article, since ignoring the rules of care can cause a change in the shape of the labia and further medical intervention.

How many times a day and how should you shower?

According to experts, washing should be done twice a day - morning and evening. In the morning you can wash yourself with regular running water, and in the evening with a special intimate gel or soap with a slightly acidic environment, like in the vagina.

During menstruation, you should also wash yourself frequently, but you should not take a bath.

Before touching your vagina, you should wash your hands to avoid accidentally introducing an infection. After this, you need to wash the vagina from front to back, without directing the stream of water forward, since harmful microbes can be brought in from the anus (since the rectum is a source of pathogenic bacteria). Also, you should not direct the stream of water inside or douche, so as not to wash out the natural microflora.

About towels and intimate hygiene products

Many women use panty liners to keep their underwear fresh and clean. Such a pad should be changed three to four times a day, since microbes accumulate on the surface, which, if the hygiene product is not replaced in a timely manner, penetrates the vagina and reaches the cervix.

During menstruation, it is also necessary to change pads or tampons on time, and monitor the cleanliness of underwear and perineum.