There’s no shortage of comparison culture these days, and vulvas are not immune. As more people choose to wax or shave their pubic hair, there has been an uptick in concerns about the appearance of labia. If the only real-life vulva you’ve ever seen is your own, it’s easy to look down there and think, “Is mine ‘normal?’”
Well, read our lips: there’s no such thing as “normal” labia. They come in all sorts of sizes, shapes, colors, and every single variation is absolutely beautiful in its own right. Don’t believe us? Check out this awe-inspiring photo project from British photographer Laura Dodsowrth (FYI before you click: photographs of real vulvas are shown).
In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with images that reinforce outdated standards of beauty, it’s important to remember that there is beauty in our differences. Let’s put an end to the secrets and self-shaming and liberate the labia!
Q: How many sets of labia do I have?
A: There are two sets of labia - labia majora and labia minora. Labia majora are the outer lips, where you grow hair. Labia minora are the inner lips that connect to your clitoral hood.
Q: Is there a typical shape?
A: Nope! No two vulvas are exactly alike - your labia are as unique as your thumbprint. There are thick, fleshy outer lips, prominent inner lips, curved lips, and asymmetrical lips. As long as it’s not causing you pain or discomfort, the shape of your labia is A-ok.
Q: Should my labia match?
A: Just like the two sides of your face aren’t perfectly symmetrical, your labia might be different lengths or widths.
Q: Is it OK if my labia are not the same color as my skin?
A: Absolutely. Grey, pink, dark, light - labia can run the gamut in terms of color. It’s a technicolor wonder of epic proportions!
Whether it’s one of power, pleasure or even pain, your relationship with your sweet spots is deeply personal. So lay down the shame, pick up a mirror and admire your labia - exactly as they are.
