featured What is your view on the subject of Labiaplasty or the notion of a “perfect” vulva?
Labiaplasty is surgery on the inner and outer lips of the vulva. It is often discussed in the media in a narrative similar to plastic surgery, where we think that women are getting Labiaplasty because they want a nice-looking or a “perfect” vulva that’s similar to what we see in porn. This might be the reason for some women, but according to...
Through your experience in working with so many women from different walks of life, what are the top 3 most common concerns when it comes to “vulva issues”?
In my experience, every woman and every case is different. While people might come to me with similar sexual challenges, what we end up working on varies a lot from person to person – that’s because everyone’s sexual history, experiences and circumstances are different.That said, the most common vulva concerns that people come to me with are usually about: Painful sex Wanting...
What do you think is the best way to open up the topic of vulva conversations? Do you think it’s best done from woman to woman?
I don’t think there is a “best” way to open up. For a lot of people, starting this conversation would most likely feel awkward and uncomfortable – which is completely normal when it’s something we’re not used to talking about! Here are a few suggestions that you can try to bring this topic up: Share! If you come across an article, video,...
With an increasing openness in today's society about self-care, do you think that the conversation surrounding the vulva and vulva care is adequately discussed?
I think that the conversation on sexual wellness in general, let alone vulva care, is not adequately discussed in today’s society – probably because talking about anything sexual still feels taboo. We just haven’t had a lot of practice talking about sex, intimacy, our bodies and the feelings related to this area. Most people still refer to the vagina as “down there”,...
What are the specific functions of the clitoris, labia majora and labia minora?
The clitoris can be aroused and erect when sexually stimulated. This stimulation of the clitoris can cumulate into an orgasm.The fleshy padded tissue of the labia majora protect the other external genital organs. They also contain sweat and sebaceous glands, which produce lubricating secretions particularly during sexual intercourse. During sexual stimulation, the labia minora swell as their blood vessels become engorged with...