Definition

1. Noun:
   • The external parts of the female genitalia: The vulva is the collective term for the external female reproductive structures located at the opening of the vagina.

Usage

• The word "vulva" is a standard, anatomical term used in medical, biological, and educational contexts. It refers specifically to the external structures, which include the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and the openings to the vagina and urethra.

Examples

• Noun:
  • A basic diagram of female anatomy will label the vulva.
  • The doctor explained that itching could be caused by an infection of the vulva.
  • Understanding the structure of the vulva is an important part of health education.

Advanced Usage

• "Vulvar" (adjective): Pertaining to or affecting the vulva.
  • She was diagnosed with a vulvar condition.
• In feminist and body-positivity discourse, the term is used to promote accurate anatomical knowledge and reduce stigma.

Variants and Related Words

• Vulvar (adj): Relating to the vulva.
• Vulvitis (n): Medical term for inflammation of the vulva.
• Vulvectomy (n): A surgical procedure to remove part or all of the vulva.

Synonyms

• External female genitalia: The formal descriptive synonym.
• Pudendum (femininum): A formal, less common Latin-derived term for the external female genitals.

Antonyms

• Penis: The external male genital organ.
• Internal female reproductive organs (e.g., uterus, ovaries): Refers to the internal structures, not the external vulva.

Notes

• The vulva is distinct from the vagina; the vagina is the internal muscular canal, while the vulva refers to the external features.
• The term is singular; its standard plural is "vulvas" or "vulvae" (the latter being a Latin-derived plural form used in technical contexts).

Noun

1. external parts of the female genitalia