JUST like every woman has a different body shape and size, women can also have different type of vagina and vulva.
But what types are existing and is it possible to change the size?
What are the different types of vagina?
According to HealthLine, there are at least nine types of vagina, and Dr Shree Datta explained the difference to Fabulous.
Asymmetrical inner lips
As long as the vulval 'lips' are not catching on your underwear or causing problems during sex, this can be a normal variant.
Curved outer lips
This is perfectly normal variant with little impact on day to day function.
If you find that the inner skin is rubbing against your underwear, try wearing loose cotton underwear but if it's a persistent problem, it's worth speaking to your doctor for advice.
Prominent inner lips
This is a common variant which I often come across.
It's often more prominent if women shave or wax as the inner smaller lips are exposed.
Prominent outer lips
This type has larger outer lips than inner lips, which means that the lips sit lower on the vulva.
This usually does not affect day to day activities.
Long, dangling inner lips
I often see women in clinic who find prominent inner lips problematic, as the skin folds can catch on underwear and cause pain.
– Protruding labia minor, as the small inner folds are called, are a common variation and may not always cause any issues.
However, if they become excessively long – or big (hypertrophy) – them may become problematic.
Long, dangling outer lips
This is another natural variant which has little impact on function, but you may benefit from wearing more supportive underwear.
Long or bulbous, swollen labia majora, as the outer "folds" are known as are completely normal. They can also appear slightly asymmetrical.
Small, open outer lips
Petite outer labia majora, or "outer folds" are simply a variant of anatomy and are no cause for concern, unless problematic.
Small, closed outer lips
This is a normal variant and there is no cause for concern.
Visible inner lips
Hypertrophy, or enlargening of the internal labia minora, can lead to pain on having sex or catching on underwear.
If this happens repeatedly, or the appearance is really bothering you, it's a good idea to see your doctor.
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Is my vagina normal?
Dr Shree said that each vulva and vagina is unique.
She said: “As a Gynaecologist, I see a range of different shapes and sizes of vulvas and vaginas, as well as skin type, texture, colour and smells.
“The inner and outer folds of your vulva and the clitoral hood can also vary in colour, symmetry and size, along with the amount of hair you have in your bikini area.
“There is massive amount of natural variation which is usually perfectly normal – as long as you have no problems changing tampons, your underwear or having sex.
“Events such as childbirth also have an effect on the shape and symmetry of our vulvas and vaginas, so it's important to remember that there's no "one size that fits all".”
Can I change the shape of my vagina?
Dr Shree added: “Events such as childbirth can affect the shape and size of your vulva.
“In some cases, your vulva and vagina can also change with age or significant weight changes.
“There's very little you can do to change the shape of your vulva/vagina, but if you are experiencing problems such as dryness, chafing, excess skin catching on underwear causing pain, you may be referred for labiaplasty surgery, but it's important to remember that you may experience long term pain, scarring or asymmetry as a result, so it's worth thinking about carefully with your Gynaecologist.”
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