We may have lived in these bodies for years but our confusions and questions only seem to keep growing. We realized during our search that a lot of women are unsure if their labia is normal, and some even ask if they
can change how it looks. Today, we'll be debunking all your assumed theories on what classifies as normal or abnormal labia.
Let's get one thing straight, there is no such thing as “normal” labia. Vaginas and all its components come in different shapes and sizes and just as with all things concerning our bodies, nobody(literally) is a mirror for how yours should look.
What even is the labia?
When people talk about vaginal appearance, they mostly refer to the vaginal lips. The fleshy outer lips of your vulva is known as the “Labia Majora” while the inner lips that lead to your vaginal opening is called the
“Labia Minora”.
Is there a typical shape?
Although we'll be discussing the various types of labia, some have characteristics associated with multiple types and cannot be classified into a single category. Even if yours take after a certain type, you may have variations that set yours apart from the next person.
I know that in Africa we associate talking, looking, or “god forbid” touching the vagina with shame but if you have ever questioned how your vagina looks, you can grab a handheld mirror-like Jess in the show “Big mouth” and
come with us on a learning trip.
- Asymmetrical inner lips
If one of the inner lips is longer or thinner, and it hangs a little past the labia Majora, it is considered to be asymmetrical. While it may seem uneven, it is perfectly normal.
- Curved outer lips
Do you ever see a horseshoe and go "hmm, this looks strangely familiar...” Well if you do it's probably because your labia Majora curves round exposing your labia Minora but meets evenly at the end.
- Prominent inner lips
Some call it the not-so-minor-Minora because in this case, the Labia Minora is longer than the Majora and sometimes stick out. This type tends to be a major concern to most women as they complain that it is both uncomfortable and not so good looking.
- Prominent outer lips
Some vulvas have more prominent Labia Majora than they do labia minora. The outer lips in this case tends to sit much lower, and can appear to look puffed up or loose. OBGYNs note that a common complaint which women have is that "it's too puffy" and It creates bulges in trousers.
- Small closed lips
This is the least common type of vulva, even though the adult entertainment industry make us think otherwise. In this case, the outer lips neatly envelopes the inner lips.
- Small open lips
This is similar to the closed lips except for the Labia Majora(outer lips) which is set further apart making it appear open.
- Visible inner lips
This vulva will typically expose the Labia Minora
through the entire length of the Labia Majora, which sweeps to either side. The inner and outer lip are usually the same size.
Let's talk about the length
There isn’t a lot of information available about Labia length. What we do know stems from two small studies, one done in 2005 and one in 2014.
Their results suggest the following for average labia length :
- The left or right labia majora is up to 12 centimeters(cm) long — or about 5 inches (in).
- The left labia minora is up to 10 cm (about 4 in) long and up to 6.4 cm (2.5 in) wide.
- The right labia minora is up to 10 cm (about 4 in) long and up to 7 cm (about 3 in) wide.
Note that these figures illustrate a range of observed measurements. It is not a standard and it also has several limitations.
When to see a doctor
The only thing that isn’t normal is pain or discomfort. If you’re experiencing unusual itching, tenderness, or other symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor. They can identify the cause and help you find relief.
What now
Now that we have established that your labia is normal(phew), you can wear confidence like the finest cologne and live your best life!
References
- https://www.healthline.com › healthWeb results Lopsided Vagina: 9 Different Labia Shapes, Colors, and Sizes
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com › bodyIs my vagina normal? These are the 7 different types of labia
By Charisa Bassey