Types of vaginas: What are the different shapes, and sizes of vulva?

Just as every woman has a different body shape and size, women can also have different types of vaginas and vulvas.

But what types are there and is it possible to change the size?

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What are the different types of vaginas?

According to HealthLine, there are at least nine types of vagina dr Shree Datta explained the difference to Fabulous.

Asymmetrical inner lips

As long as the vulvar “lips” don’t catch on underwear or cause problems during sex, this can be a normal variation.

Curved outer lips

This is a completely normal variation with little impact on day-to-day functioning.

If you find the inner skin rubbing against your underwear, try wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear. However, if the problem persists, you should consult your doctor for advice.

Striking inner lips

This is a common variant that I often come across.

It is often more pronounced in women who shave or wax because the inner smaller lips are exposed.

Prominent outer lips

This type has larger outer lips than inner lips, meaning the lips sit lower on the vulva.

This usually does not interfere with everyday activities.

Long, dangling inner lips

I often see women in the clinic who find protruding inner lips a problem as the skin folds can get caught on the underwear and cause pain.

– Protruding labia minora, as the small inner folds are called, is a common variant and may not always cause problems.

However, when they become excessively long – or large (hypertrophy) – they can become problematic.

Long, dangling outer lips

This is another natural variation that has little effect on function. However, you may benefit from wearing more supportive underwear.

Long or bulbous, swollen labia majora, as the outer “folds” are called, are perfectly normal. They can also appear slightly asymmetrical.

Small, open outer lips

Small outer labia majora or “external folds” are simply a variant of anatomy and are not a cause for concern unless they are problematic.

Small, closed outer lips

This is a normal variant and nothing to worry about.

Visible inner lips

Hypertrophy or enlargement of the labia minora can cause pain during sex or when putting on underwear.

If this happens repeatedly, or if the appearance is really bothering you, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

Is my vagina normal?

dr Shree said that every vulva and vagina is unique.

She said: “As a gynecologist, I see a range of different shapes and sizes of the vulva and vagina, as well as skin type, texture, color and smells.

“Even the inner and outer folds of your vulva and clitoral hood can vary in color, symmetry, and size, as can the amount of hair you have in your bikini line.

“There are tremendous natural fluctuations that are usually perfectly normal — as long as you don’t have trouble changing tampons, your underwear, or having sex.

“Events like childbirth also affect the shape and symmetry of our vulva and vagina, so it’s important to remember that there is no ‘one size fits all’.”

Can I change the shape of my vagina?

dr Shree added: “Events like 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 is very little you can do to change the shape of your vulva/vagina. However, if you suffer from issues such as dryness, chafing, or excess skin on underwear that causes pain, you may be referred for a labiaplasty, but this is important, so you may experience long-term pain, scarring, or asymmetry as a result. It is therefore worth discussing this carefully with your gynaecologist.”