Whether it’s the texture of your hair or the shape of your vagina or penis- everyone’s body is unique. This may be hard to believe when you’re flipping through fashion magazines (where everyone is airbrushed like crazy!) but just taking a look at your own “privates” or genitals, can be a great reminder of how different our bodies can be.
The area that makes up the vaginal area is called the vulva. The vulva includes vaginal lips (labia), the clitoris, the vaginal opening, and the area where your pubic hair grows. For a diagram of the vulva click here (remember, this is a standard diagram and does not show all differences). All of these parts of the vulva come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some inner labia stick out past the outer labia; some clitorises are big while some are small; and some vulvas even change colors as you mature.
The male genital area includes both the penis and testicles. For a diagram of the penis click here (this is a standard diagram and does not show all differences). There is NO standard size for a penis, and bigger does not mean better! Penises also come in all different shapes and colors. Some penises curve to the left and others to the right; some are circumcised while others are not; and some testes (a.ka. balls) are wrinkly, hairy, or wrinkly and hairy!
So when it comes to checking yourself out in the mirror, don’t Judge yourself by what you see on other people. The only time your “privates” should make you worried is if you see any abnormal discharge, bumps, or experience pain during urination. In these cases, you should always go to a clinic near you and get checked out. Visit the Find a Clinic tab for more information.