31.12 : External Female Genitals

The vulva encompasses the external structures of the female reproductive system. At the forefront is the monpubis, a cushion of fatty tissue atop the pubic bone. Once puberty sets in, this area typically grows hair. Extending from just behind the mons pubis are the labia majora (labia = 'lips'; majora = 'larger'), which are larger skin fsolds coated with hair. Nestled within are the labia minora (labia = 'lips'; minora = 'smaller'), which are thinner, more pigmented, and hairless. While the labia minora do vary in form and size among individuals, their primary role is to protect the vaginal and urethral openings.

Meeting at the vulva's upper juncture, the labia minora enshroud the clitoris, a sensory-rich organ pivotal for sexual pleasure and orgasm. It shares embryonic origins with the glans penis of the male. The hymen, often a partial and varied membrane, may cover the vaginal entrance to some degree. The hymen is typically perforated at birth and holds no medical significance. However, in rare cases of an imperforate hymen, menstrual blood can accumulate in the vaginal canal after puberty, requiring medical intervention. Situated amid the urethral and anal openings is the entrance to the vagina, with the neighboring Bartholin's glands located on its sides.