When I mentioned to my mother that I was writing this article, she expressed her embarrassment and insisted I should remain anonymous. Ironically, this is the same woman I once caught, scissors in hand, tending to her pubic hair on a Sunday morning. That moment left us both in stitches and reminded her that she can’t critique me for sharing personal stories.
So, let’s dive in and discuss vulvas, clits, and vaginas. I proudly identify with having what I affectionately call a “chubina” (or chubby vagina), but technically, it’s termed a “chubulva.” Whatever you choose to call it, let me assure you that having a little extra padding is completely normal—and this applies to everyone else as well.
Throughout my life, I’ve never been one to shy away from conversations about anatomy (thanks to my crafty mother!). Many of my friends and I have openly shared our experiences, often playfully asking each other, “Does this look normal?” in our younger years, as if we were harboring some strange anomaly.
Dr. Linda Hargrove, an expert in female pelvic health, conducted a study analyzing the variations in vulva and vagina sizes among 150 women. The findings revealed that the left labia minora (the inner lips) measured anywhere from 1.3 to 7.4 cm, while the right varied from 0.9 to 8.2 cm. That’s a significant range!
So if your labia varies in length—whether it’s long, short, or anything in between—there’s no need to worry. As licensed doula Jenna Brooks points out, just like our fingerprints or hair color, our vulvas come in all shapes and sizes.
Some labia may be prominent, while others might be hardly noticeable. And it’s entirely normal for one side to look different from the other; if you’re not experiencing any discomfort, you’re perfectly fine.
Why do some vulvas resemble Virginia Slims cigarettes while others are more like a Black and Mild? Surprisingly, body mass index (BMI) isn’t a determining factor. “Your mons pubis—the fatty area above your vulva—might reflect your overall weight, but it doesn’t impact the health of your vulva or vagina,” Brooks explains.
The takeaway? Unless you’re facing pain during intercourse or discomfort with tampons, you’re likely within the vast spectrum of what’s considered normal. If you still have concerns, consider reaching out to a medical professional for peace of mind.
It’s time to embrace the unique characteristics of your body. This is your personal landscape, and it won’t change, so stop comparing it to others. As Brooks encourages, “Let’s celebrate the diverse range of what’s normal!”
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Summary
This article highlights the normalcy and diversity of vulvas, emphasizing that variations in size and shape are perfectly natural. With insights from medical professionals and personal anecdotes, it encourages readers to embrace their bodies without comparison.