External Female Genitals

The external female genitalia, collectively called the vulva or pudendum, include the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vestibule. The mons pubis is a rounded fatty section above the pubic symphysis that develops pubic hair after puberty. The labia majora are larger, hair-covered skin folds extending from the mons pubis, while the labia minora are thinner, hairless folds nested within them.

The labia minora are thinner, more pigmented, and hairless skin folds that protect the vaginal and urethral openings. These structures vary in form and size among individuals. Meeting at the vulva's upper junction, the labia minora also enshroud the clitoris, a sensory-rich organ pivotal for sexual pleasure and orgasm.

The vestibule is a cavity between the labia minora that contains the external openings of the urethra and vagina. The greater vestibular glands, located on either side of the vaginal opening, release mucus that lubricates the vestibule, aiding in copulation. Deeper structures within the vulva include the bulbs of the vestibule and the fourchette.

The clitoris is a small protruding structure rich in nerve endings and blood vessels. The visible portion is termed the glans, covered by the prepuce of the clitoris, a skin fold resulting from the fusion of the labia minora folds. The clitoris shares embryonic origins with the glans penis of the male, as shown in the development of the sexual organs in the embryo and fetus.

The mons pubis is a rounded fatty section positioned above the pubic symphysis that serves as a cushion of fatty tissue atop the pubic bone. Before puberty, this area is typically hairless. Once puberty sets in, the mons pubis develops pubic hair, marking one of the visible signs of sexual maturation in females.

The hymen is a partial and varied membrane that may cover the vaginal entrance to some degree. It is typically perforated at birth and holds no medical significance in most cases. However, in rare cases of an imperforate hymen, menstrual blood can accumulate in the vaginal canal after puberty, requiring medical intervention.

Bartholin's glands, also called the greater vestibular glands, are located on either side of the vaginal opening within the vestibule. These glands release mucus that lubricates the vaginal opening, aiding in copulation. They are situated amid the urethral and anal openings at the entrance to the vagina.