• Vaginal Changes
• Menopause
• Vaginal Discharge

Understanding the Different Types of Vaginas: Why Every Variation is Perfectly Normal

It’s natural to feel uncertain or even insecure about your body, and for many women, these feelings often include concerns about their vagina.

With images and unrealistic portrayals in the media, it’s easy to start questioning if your vagina is normal or how it compares to others.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of vaginas so you can feel more confident and empowered by embracing your own body.

Is My Vagina Normal?

Every vagina is unique, and there is no one ‘normal’ appearance. Vaginas come in all different shapes, sizes, and textures, and these variations are completely natural. 

For example, some labia may be longer, shorter, more pronounced, or asymmetrical, while others may be thinner and tucked closer to the body. 

The skin tone may also differ, as can the visibility of veins or folds. 

The Different Types of Labias

Various parts of the vagina will differ from one woman to another. The labia – the fleshy skin folds located on the vulva – is the part of the vagina that tends to differ the most.

Below we explore the different types of labia to help you better understand your vagina.

Asymmetrical inner lips

If one of your inner lips is longer or larger than the other, this can be considered asymmetrical. It’s completely normal for vulvas to have uneven labia minora.

Curved outer lips

The outer lips curve inward or outward, which may include a more pronounced curve that frames the inner lips more distinctly, giving the vulva a particularly curved shape.

Prominent inner lips

The inner lips extend beyond the outer lips and may be more visible, sometimes referred to as protruding or hanging inner lips. They can vary in length, and it’s not uncommon for one side to be longer than the other.

Prominent outer lips

The more prominent outer lips sit much lower on the vulva, and the skin may be thick and puffy or thin and loose. 

Long inner lips

Your inner lips may dangle up to an inch past your outer lips, and you may notice extra skin or additional folds in your labia. 

Long outer lips

Women with longer outer lips have more pronounced or elongated labia majora, which may extend further from the body and, depending on their size, provide greater coverage over the inner lips.

Small, open outer lips

Smaller outer lips are thinner and less pronounced labia majora, which gives the vulva a compact or less full appearance. The lips may sit closer to the body, with less visible coverage over the inner lips.  

Small, closed outer lips

Small, closed outer labia majora tend to lie flat against each other, creating a more compact and smooth appearance. The labia majora may not protrude against each other, creating a more compact and smooth appearance.

Visible inner lips

The inner and outer lips are usually the same size, and the labia minora aren’t visible because they hang inside the outer folds. They’re visible because the outer folds naturally sit or pull toward either side. 

Other Ways Your Vagina is Unique

Now that we’ve discussed the different types of labia, let’s take a closer look at other ways that your vagina may be unique:

Clitoris

Your clitoris can vary significantly in size as some women have a prominent clitoris while others have a smaller one. The clitoral hood, which covers the clitoris, can also differ in thickness and length.

Vaginal opening

The opening of the vaginal canal — also referred to as the introitus — may vary in size and shape. Some women may have a smaller or tighter opening, while others have a wider one. The shape and opening can change over time – especially post-childbirth. 

Mons pubis

The fatty vaginal tissues over the pubic bone — called the mons pubis — can vary in size and shape. While some women have a more prominent mons pubis, others have a fatter or smaller one.

Texture

Internally, the vaginal canal can differ in texture and elasticity from one woman to another. Some women may have a smoother internal texture, while others have ridges or folds – all of which are completely normal.

Coloration

The color of the vulva and vagina varies from woman to woman, often ranging from pink, red, brown, and even purplish tones. Hormonal changes, age, and natural skin pigmentation all affect color variation.

Pubic hair

The amount, texture, and pattern of public hair are also highly individual. Some women have thick or sparse hair, while others may have curly or straight hair. Hormones and genetics typically influence these characteristics.

Discharge

Vaginal discharge varies significantly from one woman to another in terms of consistency, color, amount, and frequency. 

These variations are influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, age, diet, lifestyle, and overall health.

Some women may experience thin, watery discharge during certain times in the menstrual cycle, while others may have thick or creamy discharge shortly after ovulation.

Additionally, some women produce more discharge than others, and this can change depending on hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, or sexual arousal. 

Other women may only have a small amount of daily discharge due to natural body variations, hormonal phases, or even stress.

Odor

Like vaginal discharge, the smell of your vagina can vary from one woman to another due to several factors. 

A healthy vagina has a natural odor that can change based on hormones, diet, and hygiene.

Many women have a mild, slightly musky scent due to the natural balance of bacteria that helps maintain vaginal health. 

For some, the odor may have a light, slightly sweet scent, varying throughout the day. 

Other women may notice a more earthy or tangy smell, especially after sweating or sexual activity, which can mix with the natural odor of the vagina.

Some women experience a more pungent metallic scent during and just after menstruation due to blood, which is natural. 

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can also influence the odor, making it more pronounced at certain times.

What is the Average Size of a Vagina?

Below is the average size of the different labia majora and minora:

When to See a Doctor About Your Vagina

While your vagina is perfectly normal regardless of its size, shape, and color, some vaginal issues may require a doctor’s appointment:

Unusual discharge

• Change in color: Discharge that turns green, gray, or yellow could signal an infection, like bacterial vaginosis (BV) or a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

• Change in consistency: If your discharge becomes unusually thick or very watery, it could indicate that you have a yeast infection.

• Foul or fishy odor: A sudden strong or foul smell could be a sign of BV or another infection.

Itching, burning, or irritation

• Persistent itching or burning: Any itching or burning sensation in or around the vagina that doesn’t go away could be a sign of a yeast infection, STI, or allergic reaction.

• Irritation or swelling: Redness, swelling, or persistent and uncomfortable irritation could mean you have an allergic reaction to hygiene products or an infection.

Pain or discomfort

• Pain during intercourse: Known as dyspareunia, pain during sex can be caused by a variety of issues, including infections, hormonal changes like those experienced during menopause, or underlying conditions.

• Pelvic or vaginal pain: Any unexplained pain in the pelvic or vaginal area should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out infections, cysts, or other health concerns.

• Burning sensation while urinating: This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another issue in the vaginal area.

Abnormal bleeding

• Bleeding between periods: Unexplained vaginal bleeding outside of your normal menstrual cycle is another reason to see a doctor. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, infections, or more severe conditions like fibroids or polyps.

• Postmenopausal bleeding: Any bleeding after menopause should be addressed as it can be a sign of endometrial issues.

• Heavy or prolonged periods: Menstrual bleeding that is unusually heavy or lasts much longer than usual could mean you have conditions like fibroids, hormonal imbalances, or other reproductive health issues.

Where Can I Learn More About My Sexual Health?

Through LifeMD, you can consult a board-certified physician or nurse practitioner to discuss any concerns you may have about your sexual health.

We can connect you with a team of healthcare professionals who can provide expert advice on your vaginal health, treatments for various conditions, and prescription medication.

Make your online appointment today.

LifeMD makes it easy to stay on top of your health because talking to a doctor, filling your prescriptions, getting your labs done—and more—are all easy and cost-effective. Come discover a healthcare solution built around you and your life.

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