Vulva self examination
When was the last time you looked and checked your vulva?
Often, sharing that you check your vulva with others can bring feelings of embarressment and shame.
Next time you have a moment to yourself and privacy, grab a hand held mirror, sit on your bed or a comfortable cushion on the floor and use your opposite hand to check your vulva (the outside parts of your genitals), while your other hand holds the mirror. Vulva self-examination is helpful to discover what your vulva looks like, but in times when you might be experiencing irritation, itchiness, swelling, or discomfort, examining your vulva can be a way to identify any health conditions such as:
Lichen sclerosus or lichen panus
Vulvar cancers
Skin conditions such as dermatitis
Genital herpes
Moles or lesions
By exploring and knowing what your unique vulvar looks like, you are able to notice if you see something that isn’t usually there or changes in your skin.
Vulva self examination is self care!
To download your own self examination guide, you can find one HERE. This handout was created by The International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD). Get access to all of their vulva conditions handouts
Using the correct language for your reproductive anatomy provides knowledge and empowerment, while examining your vulvar is a normal, responsible, healthy activity to do!
Does your labia minora disappear as you age?
As estrogen declines, the elasticity of your vaginal and vulva tissue can become thin and possibly, shrink (also known as vaginal atrophy). There was quite a stir a couple of years ago on social media where influencers created a panic stating that labia’s disappeared with age. Vaginal atrophy can look different for everyone, just like everyone’s vulvars are different. For some people, vaginal atrophy can cause splitting of the skin, tears of the skin, bleeding, pain during vaginal penetration, and dryness.
By giving yourself a vulvar self examination, you are able to notice these natural changes, the severity, or if any changes require medical attention or are making a negative impact on your life.
Your vulva is unique to you. Just like your hair, the colour of your eyes and the shape of your body. If you are curious about vulva diversity, I encourage you to check out the following websites/books below: