Where to Use-Vulva, Vagina or Both?
It is essential to know the difference between the vulva and the vagina when it comes to intimate hygiene.
The fact is, it’s your vulva that needs cleaning, not your vagina.
Don’t be misled by products on the market that claim to be “vaginal wipes”. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ and the vaginal fluids do a good enough job of cleaning on their own.
So, the next time you reach for Intiwipes, remember they are for your vulva, not your vagina.
Let’s dig deep to understand the real difference between the vulva and the vagina.
Vagina
The vagina is the elastic muscular canal (tube-like structure) that leads from the uterus to the outside of the body. The vagina has three main functions:
Childbirth: It is the birth canal through which the baby leaves the woman’s body.
Menstruation: Menstrual blood flows out of the body through your vagina during your periods. Tampons and menstrual cups are also placed in the vagina to collect the blood.
Sexual Intercourse: The penis or other objects, such as sex toys or fingers, are inserted into the vagina during sex.
Vulva
The vulva is the external female genitalia located between the legs. It is the collective name for
all the female external genitalia and includes the following:
Labia: Two pairs of lips- the outer labia majora and the inner labia minora.
Urethra: The small opening where urine leaves the body (pee hole).
Vaginal Opening: The entrance to the vagina.
Clitoris: A sensitive organ that plays a role in sexual pleasure.
Pubic Mound: The fatty area above the vulva.
Anus
The opening at the end of the digestive tract, separate from the vulva. It’s where faeces are expelled from the body.
