Expectation: a "normal" vulva looks like the edited images you see online. Reality: Jean Hailes says everyone's vulva is unique in size, shape, colour and appearance, and that it's normal for the left and right labia to differ. It even recommends looking at photos of real labia rather than edited ones.
In this vagina expectation vs. reality guide, we use Australian health advice to answer the questions many people are too shy to ask, from anatomy to smell to the pelvic floor.
Quick answer: A healthy vulva and vagina come in many versions. Jean Hailes says every vulva is unique in size, shape and colour, and healthdirect describes normal discharge as clear, white or creamy with no strong smell. A strong fishy or yeasty smell, green or frothy discharge, sores or bleeding between periods are reasons to see a doctor.
What's the difference between the vulva and the vagina?
The vulva is the external part of the genitals, and the vagina is an internal tube. Jean Hailes notes that some people think the vulva is the vagina, but they are different. The vulva includes:
- the clitoris and clitoral hood;
- the outer and inner labia;
- the urethral opening and the vestibule;
- the vaginal entrance and the perineum.
The vagina connects the vulva to the cervix. It carries your period flow, is used for vaginal sex and is the passage babies travel through during a vaginal birth. A period cup, also known as a menstrual cup, sits inside the vagina. Our article on vulva vs vagina explores the difference further.
How do I know if my vulva is normal?
Get to know your own body rather than comparing it with anyone else's. Jean Hailes suggests using a mirror to learn what is normal for you, so you can spot changes later. Uneven labia, different shades and different shapes are all part of the usual range it describes.
What matters is change and discomfort. Jean Hailes advises seeing a doctor if you notice a new lump, cut, rash or ulcer, soreness or itchiness, or a mole or freckle that is changing.
What does a healthy vagina smell like?
A healthy vagina has its own scent, and that scent naturally changes. Jean Hailes says smell can shift during the menstrual cycle and after menopause, and that urine, sweat, menstrual blood, skin oils and vaginal and gland secretions all play a part.
The healthdirect vaginal discharge page explains that normal discharge is slightly acidic, with a pH of 3.8 to 5.0, which helps prevent infection. It is often scant or thicker in the week after a period, then clear, stretchy and slippery as ovulation approaches. A strong, yeasty or fishy smell may point to an infection, and Jean Hailes says a forgotten tampon can also be the cause.
What are the signs of a weak pelvic floor?
Frequent urges to wee and leaking urine are among the signs to look for. The healthdirect pelvic floor exercises page also lists constipation or trouble controlling bowel motions, and prolapse symptoms such as a feeling of pressure or a bulge. Ageing, pregnancy, childbirth, straining, long periods of sitting, menopause-related hormone changes and obesity can all weaken these muscles.
To find them, sit or lie down with your thighs, buttocks and stomach relaxed, then squeeze as if you were trying to stop passing wind. Contract, hold, then relax, aiming to hold harder and longer over time. Healthdirect suggests exercising every day and squeezing when you cough, sneeze or lift.
When to see a doctor
Book in with your GP if:
- your discharge looks or smells different from your usual pattern;
- you have bleeding between periods, vaginal itch, painful sex or bleeding after sex;
- you have lower abdominal or back pain, or a fever;
- you find it hard to feel or squeeze your pelvic floor muscles (a pelvic floor physiotherapist or continence nurse can help).
More questions
Is it normal for my labia to be different sizes?
Yes. Jean Hailes says it's normal for the left and right labia to differ in shape and size, and that every vulva is unique. A hand mirror is a simple way to learn your own normal. If you notice a new lump, sore or rash, or ongoing itching, that change is the thing to get checked.
Can the colour of discharge tell me what's wrong?
It can offer clues but cannot diagnose on its own, healthdirect says. Thick white discharge may suggest thrush, white or grey with a fishy smell may suggest bacterial vaginosis, and yellow or green may suggest trichomoniasis. Brown or bloody discharge has several possible causes, including your period, so see a doctor if it worries you.
Do I need to wash inside my vagina?
No. Healthdirect advises avoiding douching, scented soaps and harsh products. Jean Hailes recommends washing the vulva with soap-free products or plain water and steering clear of perfumed soaps, bath products and vaginal washes, which may irritate. Wiping from front to back and wearing cotton underwear are other simple habits both organisations mention.
Now you know where everything is: a period cup sits inside the vagina and collects blood rather than absorbing it. The Lunette period cup is made in Finland from 100% medical-grade silicone in a softer Size 1 and a firmer Size 2, and our period cup size guide helps you pick.
This content is general information, not medical advice. Your GP or a women's health nurse can talk through anything specific to you.
