Patient Education
Anatomy of the Female Genital Tract
In order to understand vaginoplasty, labiaplasty, clitoral hood reduction and even anal skin tag removal you must understand anatomy of the female genital tract.
Understanding the structures of the female genital tract helps patients make informed decisions about cosmetic gynecology procedures — and what to expect from results.
The Mons Pubis
The mons pubis is a rounded mound of fatty tissue that covers your pubic bone. Your mons pubis contains sebaceous glands that release pheromones, which are involved in sexual attraction.
Vestibule
The vestibule is the clinical term for the area surrounding the opening of your vagina (introitus) and the opening of your urethra (urethral meatus).
Vulva
The vulva is the "external" portion of female genitalia. This includes the labia majora (large) and labia minora (small) which protects your sexual organs, urinary opening, vestibule and vagina. It is the center of much of your sexual response.
Introitus
This is the technical term for the opening of your vaginal canal.
Anus
Your anus is the opening where the GI tract ends and exits the body.
Perineum
The perineum is the area between your vulva and your anus.
Labia Minora (Small Vulva)
The labia minora are the inner "lips" surrounding your vagina. These can vary in size from very small to up to 2" wide or more. The labia minora are just inside the labia majora and surround the openings to your vagina and urethra.
A significant number of blood vessels give your labia minora a pink color. During sexual stimulation, these blood vessels become engorged with blood, causing the labia minora to swell and become more sensitive to stimulation.
Labia Majora (Large Vulva)
The labia majora are the outer "lips" surrounding the vaginal opening (introitus). These are relatively large, fleshy folds of tissue that enclose and protect the other external genital organs. You could compare the labia majora to the scrotum in males. This area grows hair during puberty and contains sweat and sebaceous glands that produce lubricating secretions.
Urethral Meatus
The urethral meatus is the opening of your urethra. This is where urine leaves your body and is located just below your clitoris and the vestibule.
Clitoris
Your clitoris is located between the labia minora near their upper ends. It is a small protrusion that is very sensitive to sexual stimulation. It is surrounded by the clitoral hood.
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