Vulva Glossary
*** Anus *** Clitoral Hood *** Clitoris, “Clit” *** Labia Majora, Outer Labia ***
*** Labia Minora, Inner Labia *** Mons Pubis *** Perineum *** Vaginal Opening ***
Anus The opening where solid wastes leave the body. Also the sight of anal play/sex. The anus has been considered an erotic and erogenous part of the body for centuries for both men and women.
Clitoral Hood (“Clitoral” can be pronounced as either like “literal” or “kli-toural”) The female equivalent of the male foreskin. It covers the clitoris to protect it from over stimulation and debris. The hood can be split or circumcised much like a male’s foreskin can.
Clitoris, “Clit” (“Clitoris” can be pronounced as either like “Deloris” or “Klit-er-iss”) The female equivalent of the male penis. Although you only see a tiny “button-like” organ on the outside of the body, the clitoris actually goes several inches into your body. With thousands of nerve endings packed on to the tip, it is the only known organ designed solely for physical pleasure.
Labia Majora, Outer Labia The fatty pads of tissue lying on either side of the vaginal opening and inner lips, usually covered in hair.
Labia Minora, Inner Labia The membranous folds within the outer lips, covering the vaginal opening and urethra. Usually hairless. Can be up to 3 inches in length, and asymmetrical.
Mons Pubis A mound of fat that protects the pubic bone on the front of the body. Makes sex more comfortable, usually covered in hair.
Perineum The space between the vaginal opening and the anus. Usually cut or torn during vaginal childbirth; painful recovery.
Vaginal Opening The opening to the vagina, where menstrual blood flows from.
Images and Text by Gwen Reichert '07
Last Updated: 8-19-05
