In Australia, people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active are advised to have a cervical screening test once every 5 years. As healthdirect explains, the test looks for signs of the human papillomavirus (HPV), and you can choose to collect your own sample.
Screening checks your cervix, but keeping an eye on your vulva and vagina in between is something only you can do. Here's why getting to know your own anatomy matters, and how to go about it.
Quick answer: Getting to know your vulva and vagina matters because, as Jean Hailes explains, knowing how your vulva usually looks and feels helps you spot changes sooner and tell your doctor. Use a mirror to learn what's normal for you, remember every vulva is unique, and see a GP about new lumps, itching, pain or unusual discharge.
Are the vulva and vagina two different things?
Yes, they are separate parts. Jean Hailes defines the vulva as the external part of the female genitals, while the vagina is an internal tube linking the vulva to the lower part of the uterus. The vulva includes:
- the clitoris and the hood over it;
- the outer lips (labia), covered with pubic hair, and the inner lips;
- the urethral opening, where wee comes out;
- the vaginal entrance;
- the perineum, the skin between the vagina and anus.
healthdirect adds that the labia protect the clitoris and the vaginal and urethral openings, and play a role in sexual sensation. Our guide to the vulva vs vagina debate covers the naming in more depth.
Is my vulva supposed to look like everyone else's?
Not at all. Jean Hailes says everyone's vulva is unique in size, shape, colour and appearance, and the left and right sides often differ, especially the inner lips. According to healthdirect's page on labia problems, labia can also change as you get older or when your hormones change.
Jean Hailes suggests not comparing yourself to images online, since many are edited, and points to the Labia Library for photos of real labia.
How do I check my vulva at home?
A hand mirror is all you need. Jean Hailes says you can use a mirror to see what is normal for you, which makes changes in appearance easier to notice. Look at each part in turn and keep in mind the things healthdirect lists as worth checking, such as redness, swelling, cracked skin, a change in skin colour or any lump.
For everyday care, Jean Hailes recommends soap-free products or just water on the vulva, and warns never to use talcum powder there, because it can cause inflammation.
When to see a doctor
healthdirect advises seeing your doctor if you notice a change or a problem with your labia, including:
- burning or itching;
- pain, redness or swelling;
- cracked or split skin;
- a change in skin colour;
- unusual discharge from the vagina;
- any unusual lump, which you shouldn't ignore even though vulval cancer is rare.
Its cervical screening page also lists abnormal vaginal bleeding and pain during sex as reasons to speak with your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is a strong smell from my vulva normal?
An unpleasant, yeasty or fishy smell may be a sign of an infection, Jean Hailes says. If you're worried about the smell or have other symptoms, such as itching or unusual discharge, see your doctor. For day-to-day washing, Jean Hailes recommends plain water or soap-free products rather than perfumed ones.
Can I take my own cervical screening sample?
Yes, self-collection is an option: healthdirect describes it as choosing to take your own sample. The test looks for signs of HPV and is recommended every 5 years for people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active. There's a Medicare rebate, but ask whether there will be any extra costs.
Do I need cervical screening if I feel fine?
Yes. healthdirect explains that HPV usually causes no symptoms, so screening is still needed when you feel completely well. Separately, if you notice abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge or pain during sex, speak with your doctor about it, whether or not your next screening test is due.
Feeling at home with your anatomy can make switching to a cup feel less daunting. The Lunette period cup is a reusable menstrual cup made in Finland from 100% medical-grade silicone, in two sizes: Size 1 suits a low cervix or a light to medium flow, and Size 2 a higher cervix or a heavier flow. Our period cup size guide helps you work out which is yours.
This page shares general information rather than medical advice; if anything about your vulva or vagina worries you, book in with your GP or a women's health clinic.
