The labia are very large. Female reproductive organs
The labia majora are folds of skin that are located on both sides of the genital slit and their main function is to protect the vagina from the negative influence of external factors. The labia majora contains a large number of fat cells and this helps them maintain an optimal temperature in the female genital organs. They also contain fatty tissue, venous plexuses and Bartholin's glands. Many girls worry about the fact that the skin color of the labia majora is not the same as the rest of the skin, but this is absolutely normal, since the skin on them is often pigmented. With the onset of puberty, hair begins to grow on both the pubis and the labia majora. The labia minora are also skin folds that are part of the external genitalia. They are located under the large labia. They have a lot of nerve endings, so they are an erogenous zone. The base of the labia minora separates the interlabial septum from the labia majora. The labia minora also contains many sebaceous glands and blood vessels. Additional information about the structure of the female reproductive system is contained in the materials of the article:
Ask your questionQuestions and answers on: what does the labia minora look like
2012-07-17 18:29:46
Olga asks:
Good day.
1) I have a question similar to Marina's. Between the anus and the entrance to the vagina there is a small soft (easy to stretch) wrinkled darkish piece of skin. He does not bother at all, but he looks neochen! You said it was a piece of hymen, but I'm still a virgin. So what could it be?
2) The question is: can veins be slightly visible on the skin between the labia minora and labia majora?
3) Why is my skin on the extreme side of the labia minora a little darker and the edges seem to be uneven (well, that is, not straight, but with small notches, like a roundish fence chtoli), maybe they are inflamed? Although there are no complaints. No pain, no discomfort.
Thank you in advance for your response!
Responsible Kravchuk Inna Ivanovna:
Dear Olga. Now we invite you to a face-to-face consultation, during which we will answer all questions in an exhaustive way and, with the help of video colposcopy, we will show how everything can be brought from a “not very” state to a “very” state. We hasten to correct our mistake and we are waiting for you.
2011-07-22 23:20:58
Lera asks:
Hello, I am 24 years old, I have irritation in the vaginal area (on the labia minora on the inside, at the entrance to the vagina). It itches, burns, it is unpleasant to go to the toilet. Roughnesses are located on both sides and look like small bubbles, and are located very close to each other, even slightly overlapping each other. There is also irritation at the entrance to the vagina. Also there is white mucus, like a plaque. There is no smell. There are no marks on the underwear. There is no visible swelling of the labia. It just appeared today, in one day. I have not had sexual intercourse for about a week, I have one partner and does not change (we are each other's first, so I have no suspicions of a venereal disease).
Looking forward to your reply, thanks in advance.
Responsible Velichko Tatyana Ivanovna:
Dear Lera! From your description of the problem, it looks very much like genital herpes, or it could also be yeast vaginitis. Both of these infections are not related to sexually transmitted diseases. Most often, they are in the body in a dormant state and become aggravated under certain conditions: for example, hypothermia, malnutrition, nervous stress. But, to determine the exact pathogen and prescribe treatment, an examination is necessary and it is imperative to pass smears.
2010-12-04 21:43:22
Olga asks:
Hello, I suspect thrush. Some rashes appeared on the labia minora, very small, like white dots. How much I observed, very rarely there are curdled discharge, odorless, sometimes itching (especially during menstruation and a couple of days after). this is what it looks like http://img190.imageshack.us/i/dsc006180.jpg/
Is this a milkmaid?
Responsible Velichko Tatyana Ivanovna:
Dear Olga, according to your description, genital herpes can manifest itself in this way. To establish an accurate diagnosis, an examination and tests are needed: a smear and a blood test for JgM and G to viral herpes in dynamics.
2008-06-22 11:46:44
Anna asks:
Hello, I saw a girl's question about the structure of the genital organs, I saw a picture, but this is not shown there. I have a question about the labia minora. I read. that they come in different sizes, which is normal, but it still worries me. is it normal when their size is too large..it seems to me that this does not look aesthetically pleasing. They are even slightly visible in a calm state from the labia majora. Can this be changed somehow? Or do you need to calm down? Thanks in advance.
Responsible Dankovich Natalia Alexandrovna:
Indeed, every woman and girl has a unique structure of the genital organs. Therefore, it is not necessary to complex, maybe this will be your advantage. If something bothers you, then today there are methods of plastic surgery. You can make an appointment with me for a consultation tel.80674058272. Together we will decide what to do.
2008-03-05 17:18:28
Nick asks:
Help me please! I have a problem! Since the age of 5 or 6, I have noticed that my genitals are not the same as those of other girls !!! My small labia come out of the big ones and stick out! they look like one and huge and folded. I heard they do surgeries! But aren't there other methods besides surgical interventions? I really want to get rid of them or at least reduce them as much as possible! It worries me a lot! Are there any methods? maybe long-acting, but helping? maybe some compresses, or baths, ointments? Thanks in advance.
Responsible Karapetyan Eliz Martinovna:
An increase in the labia minora is most often congenital. An adequate method for getting rid of this problem would be plastic surgery to reduce the size of the labia minora. You should not be afraid of it, since it is carried out on an outpatient basis (no need to go to the hospital) and painlessly (using painkillers). Recovery after surgery is also quite fast, since the genitals are well supplied with blood, which contributes to rapid tissue regeneration.
2013-02-25 21:30:19
Masha asks:
Hello!
The last 7 months have been constantly tormented by acne on the labia.
Occur inside the labia majora, less often - inside the small ones. Usually 3-4 at a time, I'll fly a little - and again, in a different place. Acne is on the labia, not at the base of the vagina, and in different places. They look like a dense red bumpy base and a small white head on top (you can squeeze it out if you want, but then the base still remains for another 2-3 days, and I try not to do this). Now, compared to pimples six months ago, they began to appear faster and pass faster, otherwise at first there could be one pimple for 3 weeks at all (and did not squeeze out).
Was at the gynecologist: cervical leukocytes were increased to 40 (seemingly due to erosion), rod flora, STD-12 is negative (incl. 2 herpes viruses), the hospital complex is all negative, HPV is all negative. Showed her these pimples, she said, "It's just an inflammation of the sebaceous glands, it's okay."
But they bother me! They are ugly, unpleasant, sometimes hurt, and most importantly - they did not exist before! ..
I tried not to use pads, changed all my underwear to cotton, stopped playing sports, showered strictly twice a day, loose clothes, breaks in sex (in the hope that they would heal), went to the sea (what if sea water helps?). And they still come up! Help, please - where to go, what to do?.. Thank you!
Recently, it has become fashionable to do something in the intimate area, someone has already done plastic surgery, someone has only heard about it. But unlike the shape of the ears, nose and chest, there is no clarity about what ideal to strive for. Again, we do not have the opportunity to compare our intimate organs with other women. Therefore, it is difficult to understand how good you are or vice versa.
How many options for the appearance of female genital organs?
G. - there are obvious pathologies. For example, hypertrophy of the labia minora. It is believed that if the labia minora is extended in length and it is more than 3-5 cm, then this is considered a deviation from the norm - a pathology
This is a purely aesthetic problem and does not interfere with life,
How does it not interfere? How else it interferes. It wraps around the shaft, bends, claps when you walk.
Could this be indicative of some more serious problem? And where does this even come from?
G - Firstly, it may be a genetic predisposition. This may be a feature of development, a feature of puberty.
What should be puberty to lead to such a result?
G. - it is normal if the period of puberty begins somewhere at 9-10 years old and continues with the appearance of the first menstruation. Late development and infantile organs may be genetically incorporated, may be
Infantile organs are just more than 3-5 cm?
G - if the labia minora protrude beyond the large ones, this is one of the signs of genital infantilism. There is no need to measure in centimeters. Act - means insufficient sexual development. However, lips are only one of the signs. If you look at the uterus, a normal uterus is a triangle, and this one is elongated and flat, the fallopian tubes are long and winding dangling, these are all links of the same chain. What can this be genetically determined, or perhaps the most common reason: the maturation period passes when children pass exams, they are stressed, and this provokes an increased production of male sex hormones
Girls too?
It's the girls. Stress causes moderate hypertrageny, this is not associated with serious problems, these are minor violations that are caused precisely by the period of development.
It turns out this applies to all polls of girls
Of course not, someone reacts to stress, and someone is impenetrable. This also affects the shape of the pelvis. If in the old days in the first place according to all classifications there was an operwell (???) narrowed pelvis, and now it is transversely narrowed, it is also a male, android pelvis.
What does it look like?
If the female pelvis is unfolded, it is a horizontal oval, and this is not just so, and this shape allows the baby to exit correctly, he moves according to the gimlet rule due to this pelvic shape. And the male pelvis is transversely narrowed. Or is it just a circle, or maybe a vertical oval. And this is the characteristics of childbirth. If there is a strong narrowing, then childbirth is generally impossible. And this problem is getting bigger every year.
Does this infantilism also affect the appearance of the genital organs?
Of course. as a rule, the labia minora dangles like the ears of a spaniel. In part, this is already a pathology, but it can also be a constitutional feature of a person.
And this is the most common variant of the problems of the type of genital organs.
I don’t know, I haven’t heard of such studies, but lately it has become more and more common. Roughly speaking, among the women whom I, by virtue of my work, examining, about a third have it to one degree or another.
And that they all need urgent surgery?
Of course not, if it doesn't bother you.
What if it interferes with your partner?
Fuck this partner. If you personally do not like something there, this is not a medical aspect, but an aesthetic one. I want to go ahead. In some cases, hypertrophied labia minora really interfere with life. And you won’t be able to have sex like a human being until you refuel all this ... you need to hold them so that they don’t crawl inside, and if they crawl, it hurts the woman ...
This pathology is visible already probably in 20 years?
Before, if it is, it is also at 15
Does it get worse over time?
No, sexual development and growth in general ends at age 20.
Does the sensitivity of this zone depend on the size?
Do you mean orgasm?
The labia is skin, it has pain receptors, regardless of size. It's just that someone may not be satisfied with such a "sloppy look"
Does it matter to men?
As a rule, men do not care, as a woman teaches, so be it.
Is there such a thing as a fashion for plastic surgery?
X - let's start with the fact that the size of the labia, or rather the ratio of the small lips to the large ones, is firstly genetically predisposed, this is evidenced by the fact that among the peoples of the north, the small lips almost never go beyond the large ones, the closer to the equator, the longer small lips become larger, in the middle zone this indicator is balanced, and there are such and such cases, it is difficult to explain, but apparently this is still genetics the same as curly hair, eye shape, and so on. Accordingly, the attitude to this problem depends on the place where it is considered. The fact that in Africa the norm is already a pathology for the middle lane. The first operations related to the correction of the labia belong to the 70s of the last century in 1962, virginity was restored for the first time, after which interest in the aesthetics of the genital organs began to develop. In England in the same year, about 4 thousand operations were performed to restore virginity, and the first operations to correct the labia belong to the same time. The variant of the norm depends on the place and social status. It is clear that people who are socially at a higher level turn to plastic surgery more often. One factor is money. Well, the mentality. As for our region, I see three main options for the structure of the labia.
The first option is when both the small floor of the lip and the clitoris are hidden behind the big lips, in fact we see only a stripe like in little girls.
The second option is when the clitoris and the hood of the clitoris go beyond the labia, and we do not see the labia minora .. In this case, we consider only a woman when she is standing, when she is lying, this is completely different.
And the third option and the clitoris and hood, large and small labia, which protrude beyond the large lips and they can protrude to different lengths. They can protrude to a fairly large length, up to 10 cm, I really have never seen this.
G - I saw 7 centimeters and a woman, as a rule, already knows how to handle it, and when she lies down on a chair, she pushes them apart, otherwise it’s impossible to get there
X - depending on which of these three types the genitals belong to, there are different problems. When everything is hidden - there are no problems. If the clitoris and the hood are visible, there are patients who think that this is a problem. We have to explain that everything is fine with them. That is, in principle, nothing can be done, but there are those who want a stripe. But this is impossible to do. that is, it is possible, but for this you will have to increase large lips. Gels are pumped into large lips, but these are quite rare operations. And the third option is when small lips protrude for large ones. Here, too, there are options due to the fact that the discharge of the small labia from the large ones can occur at different depths. Accordingly, the goal of aesthetic correction is the state when small ones do not go beyond large ones. If they start deep, then by removing them to the level of large ones we solve the aesthetic problem and leave sufficient small lips. But if you start high, you should always leave a sufficient area of the labia minora so that problems do not arise later. Small labia provide density of contact with each other
G - and cover the entrance to the vagina. This is the first barrier to unnecessary elements. I lay down on the sand and then you have a sandbox there
X - with insufficiency of the labia minora, with any spreading of the legs, the entrance to the vagina gapes
And this is a rather vulnerable area.
G - I'll tell you as a doctor, she's not vulnerable at all. You have to try so hard to hurt her. No matter how many times I tried, I never hurt anything.
X - that is, it is impossible to thoughtlessly reduce the labia minora and it is not always possible to make sure that they do not protrude beyond the large
There is such tender skin, because the seams will remain there
This is actually a skin fold, and during the operation it must be carefully sewn up so that there are no stitches left later. But this is such a mobile skin that scars are almost never visible. What is the motivation of women. Firstly, it is appropriate to the environment where they are located.
What kind of environment should it be in order for it to be so appropriate?
Well, they go to fitness centers, take a shower, they see each other there and probably appreciate and see the difference. Another aspect, some women note that even in a swimsuit, the labia minora protrude and this causes discomfort to them.
D - in a swimsuit, the labia minora are not visible
X - I had such patients who talked about it
Maybe paranoia?
X - no, well, when she spreads her legs, everything should be exactly here, but here she has such a comb in the middle, well, why is there ... not beautiful. Then too large labia minora can be rubbed, bent, injured, inflamed
G - and interfere with sexual life
X - yes, and the partner can also express dissatisfaction. Indeed, they can roll inward, a woman notes pain, etc.
What is the percentage of crazy people?
X - I have not met such people, adequate people come, but some do not quite well imagine how it should be. Patients in whom the clitoris protrudes for large lips and part of the skin above it sometimes believe that this is bad, although this is a variant of the norm. There is a problem when large lips do not have enough volume in old age, weight loss, some diseases. Then they really need to be increased.
But here, too, you need to understand what are the criteria for the norm, for example, I don’t understand how large ideally big lips should be.
When the beginning of the labia minora is on the border with the large lips, then the large ones are small. Then either your own fat or gel is injected there.
And fat never dissolves at all?
It is absorbed to a greater extent, but 20 percent of the injected fat remains
How long?
Those 20% stay forever
First pumped up 5 times more than necessary?
Not in 5 but in 2, sometimes this procedure has to be repeated. But there are gels based on heliauronic acid. They give effect for about a year.
They say that if you pump gels with heliauronic acid, then it ceases to be produced by the body
It is a myth. So we talked about the little ones. We talked about big ones. The criterion for atrophy of the large lips is when the small ones are on the border with the large ones. These operations can be performed under local anesthesia and can be done under general anesthesia, which is preferable because the patient is very tense during the operation, stress, and the surgeon is exactly between her legs, this is dangerous. You know, Natasha shifted her legs, the lieutenant's glasses cracked ...
G - for this you need to fix the legs on the chair
X - nevertheless, under local anesthesia, the operation is very uncomfortable, and a small intravenous anesthesia is usually used, especially since the operation takes no more than half an hour. Either way, the patient has a choice.
If we talk about the labia minora, then the excess skin is simply cut off.
That is not a complicated operation?
The operation is not difficult, but like any other operation, it must be performed by a qualified surgeon who is able to assess how much to cut off so as not to create problems for the patient.
And the sensitivity does not change after the operation?
G - phantom pains remain
X - no, it does not change
Patients often come back for reoperations.
Infrequently. As a rule, this is due to the asymmetry of one lip a little more, the other a little less. But it's not scary because they are always different anyway.
G - left more
X - there are no problems with sensations. In the postoperative period, the main thing is hygiene
G - you only need to wash the outside and in no case inside
X - the sutures are self-absorbable, they do not need to be removed. A woman comes in 3-4 days after the operation to appear to make sure that there is no inflammation. The risks of the operation, as with any surgical intervention, exist, they mainly revolve around bleeding. Bleeding here is never life-threatening, but after them there may be hematomas, because they are well supplied with blood
Do hematomas then resolve?
Yes, but it may require some activities, in any case they resolve. Sexual life is crossed out for three weeks
And what is done with the clitoris, are there options?
X - the clitoris itself never touches, because it is an erogenous zone
D - not only erogenous, but from a technical point of view, it is very richly supplied with blood, it bleeds so ... in boys, the clitoris grows into a pussy. Girls also have a hypertrophied clitoris
How big is this?
G - the normal size is somewhere up to 5 mm
X - there are cases of patients with the clitoris, but not because it is large or small, some patients note that it is too sensitive
Does it worry them?
Yes, they are constantly in a state of excitement, and anything tight clothing, walking, about cycling and equestrian sports, I generally keep quiet
G - when this one comes, know
They turn at the age of 15, in order to come to the surgeon you need to at least already know that such doctors exist. To have funds for a visit, that is, she must be at least 25 years old, that is, she has been experiencing this discomfort since the age of 15 ...
In fact, such a problem is treated very rarely. This problem is not solved by surgery: no operations are performed to reduce the sensitivity of the clitoris, because you can get the opposite effect, that is, deprive the woman of sensitivity, and this cannot be restored at all. Therefore, such patients use anesthetic ointments ...
All time?
Mr. - well, at least the saddle of a bicycle and a horse
But most of all, this is a problem with the head and a psychologist, or better a psychiatrist, should talk to a woman, most often she simply regards normal sensitivity as hypersensitivity.
G - a woman, upon the fact of birth, should be sent to a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist will not help
X - the clitoris is not operated on because it is too small and there is nothing to do there
Is there neurosurgery?
I have not met a single neurosurgeon who specializes in the clitoris. This is really the smallest body - only a few millimeters and the operation is built around the excess skin of the hood. Sometimes there is a lot of skin, it can hang down, close it, and some women are forced to expose it during intercourse. The skin can cover it completely and this skin can be removed by increasing the sensitivity
And then she will come to complain of hypersensitivity and she will be prescribed an anesthetic ointment ... And if the clitoris is insensitive, is something being done about it?
X - I do not know such cases, there is the concept of frigidity, a woman does not receive sexual satisfaction. But I'm not aware of situations where the clitoris is devoid of sensitivity.
And how about a fashionable operation - to pump up a G point with heliauronic acid?
Orgasms are different. There is a vaginal one, which is associated with stimulation of the ji point
Why? Vaginal orgasm is possible even in the absence of a ji point
She is there anyway. There is a zone in the vagina of the upper wall of the vagina immediately after the entrance, it is a little denser, it even looks different outwardly
Does this suggest more sensitivity?
G- this does not imply anything, I have seen so many vaginas, indeed the upper wall of the vagina looks different, but this is not connected with sensitivity and the presence of a ji point does not imply
That is, this wall is different for all women, and sensitive only for some, and these facts are not connected in any way?
X is absolutely correct. In some women, the sensitivity of the clitoris or cervix is dominated by some other zone, for some this zone is the upper wall of the vagina and those women who do not experience a vaginal orgasm probably have a reduced sensitivity of the point and this may not be due to the fact that it it’s badly innervated, or maybe it’s just located too high, stands upright and during intercourse the penis simply doesn’t reach, and if you squeeze it out, pump it up with heliauronic acid, then in principle it can get better, but it must be diagnosed that this is the problem.
And who diagnoses it?
G - this is not for us, this is for a sex therapist, let him work
X - I have not had such operations in my practice, in principle I am not very sympathetic to the methods of introducing heliauronic acid into a point or into the vagina
G - it is very specific to find this point. Those people who are engaged in these points, let them look. The question here is how effective this pumping is. Do you have such information?
I don't have G either.
That is, these are already extreme people from medicine doing this?
X - I wouldn't say that. If a woman comes to me and says that I was examined, I have a problem with the G-spot and this is the only way I can get an orgasm, then injecting gelauric acid there does not seem to be a problem. It is absolutely safe and does not come with any risk at all.
Mrs. - I always teach my students: how we sew the vagina after childbirth does not matter, the main thing is that there is no bleeding, since it is all folded, has a folded structure, is richly supplied with blood and it doesn’t matter what kind of suture you sew, as long as it doesn’t bleed, but then everything will be back to normal.
There is also an operation to reduce the vagina, for example, stretched after childbirth
X - there is one, called colprofia
G - not the vagina
G - entrance to the vagina
X- indeed there are women dealing with such a problem, the vagina is too wide
G - in fact, this is the prolapse of the vaginal wall, this is already a pathology of the ligamentous apparatus after childbirth
Frequent pathology?
GC - quite common
G-I think it's about 5 percent. As a rule, these are age-related births after 30-35 years. I had a patient with the first birth at 40. She gave birth (not caesarean) in an hour. Firstly, this is a quick birth, which in itself is traumatic for the entire ligamentous apparatus. This ligamentous apparatus, which maintains the uterus in a normal state, when the head gently smoothly passes through the birth canal, it smoothly pushes it apart and the ligamentous apparatus simply stretches, and when it passes quickly, everything just breaks. So after that, this patient had two plastic surgeries. It was just a prolapse of the uterus
How can she fall?
G - the entire suspension apparatus of the uterus, it just broke and the cervix, excuse me, lies between the legs, as if turned inside out. This is a medical problem, pathology
Well, if without medical pathology - just a stretched vagina?
X - women experience discomfort during sexual activity
G-yes, it squishes, thumps
X - a man cannot get an orgasm either, because everything hangs out there and women turn for vaginoplasty. There are two types: when the lower fornix and the upper fornix are sutured
G - if there is a prolapse of the vagina, it is useless to do, everything will return, other operations are needed here full treatment, restoration of intimate muscles, and only then plastic surgery
That is, only the entrance to the vagina is truncated, and not the entire vagina.
X - the vagina is a tube, a wedge is excised along the entire length
How difficult is this operation?
X - there is nothing complicated in this.
The vagina is many, many folds. You can stretch the vagina itself for a very long time, but there is also a uterus on top, which has its own suspension device, so if this device is fixed normally, then you can stretch the vagina, even if it is stretched, you can do a small operation, this is not a problem, but with omission womb is another matter...
Can Vaginal Sensitivity Change?
X-no, sensitivity is usually restored. Because the main erogenous zone of a woman is the brain...
Restoration of the hymen and its removal
X is a very popular operation among Eastern women.
In Moscow?
In Moscow
How hypocritical are they?
X - they study and live here, including sexual life, and at home their parents have already found a groom and you have to be a virgin. Therefore, virginity is restored and more than once
And how many times is it possible
The possibilities are limited because, in essence, it is the stitching of the remnants of the virginity of the hymen
G - the hymen itself cannot be restored, so you have to sew what you have, you have to tighten the vagina to reduce the entrance and so that the next time there is a rupture effect. So with each new hymen, this effect will be less and less. And what prevents you from tightening the vagina itself in a circle, pick it up and that's it!
And no one will guess that it's not a real hymen?
G - oriental husband - never, gynecologist can
X - another topic is medical defloration; women turn mainly to gynecologists in order to destroy the hymen
G - we have a doctor - a great specialist
And what is the purpose?
X - let's say a woman gets married and cannot have sex
G - it can be extremely painful
X - member does not enter or enters with pain
The hymen can be very dense, this may be a feature of the anatomical structure. This is extremely rare, but it does happen.
X - the number of plastic surgeries is growing every year
Does this mean income growth?
And about the growth of offers too, a profitable field of medicine
What operations do men do on the genitals
Basically, this is circumcision for religious reasons and due to diseases of the foreskin (for example, inflammation) or simply the man’s desire for his opinion that a circumcised penis is better than an uncircumcised one.
Does this correspond to reality?
In fact, there are statistics that indicate that. That cancer of the foreskin is less in circumcised
Marvelous
In fact, the percentage of such cancer is insignificant. Sufficiently demanded operation is the lengthening of the penis. There are several techniques here. They are divided into techniques aimed at prosthetic penis
What kind of plastic prosthesis is inserted?
Now there are very interesting devices
Straight devices and a remote control in your pocket?
There are cooler ones, there are those when a long balloon filled with liquid or air is inserted into the cavernous bodies and the electronic device is in the machon and a man can in one version just turn it on and cause an erection, and in another option just pump it up, well, squeeze the machon several times, seriously, outwardly nothing will be noticeable
Are there any medical indications for such operations?
For example, a man with reduced erection, sluggish, short
What does a man feel about it?
Everything is the same, he is excited just without a prosthesis he does not need
How many years is this balloon sewn in?
Actually for life
And if an electronic device, then there only the battery will need to be changed
As a rule, it is so long-playing that now there are elements for five years. The second aspect is lengthening. This can be done by cutting the ligaments where the penis is attached and it extends a little, or you can additionally do liposuction of the pubis. The pubis has some thickness, and by removing a centimeter of adipose tissue, you can actually increase the length of the penis. There are operations aimed at increasing the thickness of the penis, also prosthetics. At the moment, the safest and most popular is the introduction of heliauronic acid under the skin of the penis, but this is a temporary effect for a year. There are also operations aimed at correcting the curvature of the penis. The curvature can be both up and sideways, and some men are worried about this and we perform such operations.
But this is probably a purely psychological problem.
Probably in men it is more often a purely psychological problem, well, except for erectile impotence. It is always a combination of a male worldview with some kind of public opinion.
In plastic surgery, is the result always known in advance or is it unpredictable?
Always known and predictable. If it turned out not what was promised - this is a question for the qualifications of the surgeon.
About money
X - the cost of intimate operations is, in principle, low compared to the rest of aesthetics, but there are clinics whose prices are comparable.
It is also very expensive for the banal clipping of the skin.
Yes, but there are also prices of 10 thousand, because it is very simple for a surgeon to perform this operation and it takes half an hour.
That is, the money is mainly taken for the maintenance of the ward with a TV?
G - yes, this is an outpatient operation; there is no need for the presence of resuscitators, we students could do it
X - as for the prosthesis of the penis, the price depends on the price of the device, but it can be very expensive 2-3 thousand dollars and the operation can also be expensive
Can you make a remote control?
G-but how!
X - why?
Convenient: click and work
X - I don’t think that a man is ready to entrust such a remote control to someone, but theoretically, of course, it is possible from the remote control
X - the cost of operations has a large spread. In general, in aesthetic surgery, the cost is determined not by the complexity of the operation, but by the ambitions of the surgeon, the level of the clinic, rent. For example, in the clinic where I work, any operation cannot cost less than 30 thousand rubles. because, roughly speaking, 15 of them are spent on advertising, rent, staff salaries, consumables, and out of 30 thousand nothing remains, it makes no sense to make operations cheaper, from 45 thousand already something
Are there people who do this at home?
X - probably there, but they are unknown to me
The only difference with the clinic is that you can’t sue them later
X - on the contrary, you will, this is a significantly more painful fault if it is done at home in violation of the laws (private activity without a license)
That is, it is difficult enough to spoil something there?
X - it's always easy to mess up
G - shit - easy
And you sometimes say to women who come to you: here it would be great to pump up and cut small ones
G - I never said that
X - now it is impossible to get a professional education of a plastic surgeon with us
G - wait a minute. And the beauty institute?
Probably at first all study in medical?
There is no specialty in the register of plastic surgery, there is no such education plastic surgeon
But there is also maxillofacial surgery
This is different. When a student graduates from the institute, he becomes a surgeon having chosen the specialty of surgery, in order to work in plastic surgery he needs to have two certificates, one in general surgery if he wants to operate from the neck and down and the other in maxillofacial surgery if he wants to operate from the neck and up. He receives a certificate in general surgery at the end of an internship or residency, a year or two after graduation. And in Chel Lit Cheer, he can get a certificate by doing an internship in Chel Lit Cheer for another year, but no other specialty gives him knowledge about plastic surgery because it is a very special thing. Man - persons is a reconstructive operation, and general surgery is usually a disease, so it is now impossible to get a systematic education in plastic surgery
I understand that plastic surgery is much easier than coronary bypass surgery. That is, if you can control a rocket, you can handle a tractor
X is currently the next path for a person who wants to do aesthetic surgery (we mean it now), because plastic surgery is both burns and trophic ulcers and reconstructions, we are talking about aesthetics. As a rule, these people are attached to someone who is already working, gaining experience while receiving additional education (certificates). In the West, a person graduates from a university, this is a medical school for 4 years (it’s like a medical school) basic education, then a university and there for 4 years - he studies surgery, but these are more clinical practical things, after that a person receives a diploma, but he still cannot work as a doctor, because he has to do residency, this is a 5-year education already within the chosen specialty, that is, it can be in plastic surgery, in person, in general, etc. and as a rule, after that they still do a Fellowship, that is, they go abroad and work in another place for a year or two. But after a 5-year residency, he can already do anything. There is no such system in Russia, but the business is very profitable and only the lazy do not deal with it, and getting these pieces of paper is quite simple, it is a formality that you have to go away for several months and get it, which is why there are so many problems with it. The mecca of medicine is still America, not Russia. Now all plastic surgery clinics are private, there are no state ones at all. In Soviet times, the Institute of Cosmetology on Olkhovka was a state institution and there used to be a department there, now this is a commercial institution and is not engaged in education. Any private clinic receives a license to engage in this activity, in order to license a clinic, you must have three things: an area that meets sanitary standards, certain equipment, an operating table, lamps, and that there are documents of doctors (diplomas. Certificates), and a person may not work there afterwards according to my documents, three clinics were licensed, this does not oblige me to anything. At the moment, there are about 200 clinics in Moscow, some of them are constantly closing, as a rule, they go bankrupt, some of them appear. But until the market is saturated for another five years, the flow of patients will probably increase and then stabilize.
X - in plastic surgery, the age of the patient is unimportant. It is important that there are no diseases from which there may be contraindications. I have a 78 year old patient. If a person is healthy, there are no age contraindications
X - as a man and as a person, I really understand women who go for surgery, because usually these are absolutely real problems. I will say more if a woman has a psychological problem. This is also a medical problem and it can be solved with the help of surgery, most often it really helps. Or let's put it differently, without solving this (aesthetic problem) it is impossible to solve the psychological
Nature has awarded the girls with beautiful forms, but not all of them are satisfied with their data. If someone sees shortcomings in appearance or in the physiological structure of the body, this leads to the development of complexes, to lack of confidence in their abilities, to problems in communicating with the opposite sex, including in intimate life. Such "disadvantages" include enlarged labia minora.
Enlarged labia minora - a norm or a deviation?
About thirty percent of women are endowed with such a structure of the genital organs, when the small lips protrude outward, not hiding behind the large lips. Their size is not the same for different women (on average from 2 to 5 cm) exactly the same as their color (from pink to brown). In this case, the labia may have smooth or fringed edges. I want to immediately note that there is nothing unusual, as gynecologists and plastic surgeons themselves say, in such a structure. The problem looms mainly due to the fact that many girls have simply never compared their “charms” with the bikini area of other girls, and therefore they begin to suspect the existence of intimate flaws.
Someone is so embarrassed by enlarged labia that even because of this they do not go to baths and saunas and are afraid of the first intimacy with a man. If at least one of these thoughts has visited your head, and the problem of enlarged labia is close to you firsthand, then you may ask if it is possible to reduce them. It is possible, but only surgically. Is it just worth it? Think about it well.
The opinion of one of the men about the enlarged labia minora
“What to do if you have enlarged labia minora? Rejoice and only rejoice! Enlarged small lips - it's cool, it's beautiful, it's sexy and just super! Even in the Kama Sutra, the most ideal vulva for sex is the vulva with large petals of the labia. It is this resemblance of a woman to a flower that is beautiful. The larger, brighter, wider, more original and unusual the petals, the more beautiful the female flower. The owners of such lips are very lucky. The more lips stick out, the sooner you want to touch them, kiss and give pleasure. This is the most sensual erogenous zone. Enlarged small lips give a man an unforgettable experience during intercourse, as they tightly, pleasantly fit the penis and prolong the contact of the intimate organs. Infinitely stupid complex about enlarged labia minora. Stupid, stupid and stupid!
Be proud of what nature has given you! You are gorgeous! You are the dream of any adequate man!”
Indications for surgical correction of the labia minora
At the same time, such situations are also common when enlarged labia give women physical discomfort, expressed, for example, in inconvenience when walking or in pain during intercourse. Then labioplasty (surgical intervention) is not excluded.
The main operational indications for reducing the labia minora include:
Significant deformation of the labia minora obtained during childbirth;
Unpleasant or even painful sensations during sex;
Strong sagging of the labia minora, resulting from injury or a sharp decrease in body weight;
Aging of the body;
psychological factor.
The principle of labioplasty
The operation can be performed both under general anesthesia and under local anesthesia. The average duration of the operation is one hour. To date, two principles of the operation to reduce the labia minora are known:
Linear incisions are made and excess skin is removed;
V-shaped incisions are made and pigmentation and excess skin are excised.
The opinion of one of the well-known plastic surgeons specializing in labioplasty: "In fact, there are no standard template methods for correcting the labia minora and cannot exist. Their structure is purely individual, so each patient requires a special approach."
Contraindications and complications
Contraindications:
Inflammation of the female genital organs;
Venereal diseases;
Psychological disorders;
Oncology;
Possible complications:
long healing time;
Non-compliance of the result of the operation with the expectations of the patient;
Painful sensitization of the genitals;
Decreased sensitivity of the genitals;
Vaginal gaping;
Feeling of tightness;
Destruction of the protective function of the labia;
Re-inflammation of scar tissue;
Repeated bleeding;
The likelihood of scar tissue rupture during childbirth.
Live without complexes and be happy!
The labia minora (labia minora pudendi, internal) are part of the female reproductive system and consist of two folds or “lips” - the skin on the outside of the vagina, located in the longitudinal direction medially from the labia majora; they are the same color as their inner surface; their free edges can sometimes protrude from the genital gap.
The main role of these small folds is to protect the clitoris, urethra and vulva.
Anatomically, the base of the labia minora is separated from the outer ones by an interlabial groove. The front section of each of the small lips is divided into two legs - the outer and inner. The inner, or lower, legs of both lips, connecting with each other and attaching from the back to the head of the clitoris, form the frenulum of the clitoris, and both outer, or upper, legs, connecting at the rear of the clitoris, form the foreskin of the clitoris from the side of its upper surface.
Approximately in the middle of the inner surface of the outer lips, one can see how the small posteriors gradually merge with them or connect with one another, forming a frenulum. In their thickness lie venous vessels, resembling cavernous bodies, nerves, arteries, as well as elastic fibers and smooth muscle fibers; The skin contains sebaceous glands.
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. DIMENSIONS OF LABIA SMALL.
Until about 9-10 years of age, the inner labia are really very small. But the situation changes from the moment when nature begins to prepare the girl for the role of a woman. Now the action of the hormone estrogen brings to life everything that is intended for sex and reproduction. Starting from the age of 10-14, all girls, without exception, grow and enlarge the labia minora to adult sizes, but in some this process is slow and barely noticeable, in others it is fast and more visible.
The lips are often asymmetrical, which in practical terms means that they are usually slightly different sizes or lengths, and one side may hang lower than the other. In most cases, this does not indicate any problem and is in fact considered “normal” for most women. The only time this can indicate a problem is when one side suddenly swells up and is accompanied by burning, itching, or redness. This may indicate an infection or sexually transmitted disease.
2. WHAT THE LABIA SMALL LOOK LIKE.
There are also natural differences in the appearance of the external genital organs, which in many ways resembles differences in the shape and size of the developing breast. In some, the genitals look almost the same as in childhood, in others, the small lips take on a more expressive feminine look and become like wide petals of a bizarre shape. In 80% of girls up to 10 years of age, the inner lips are hidden behind the outer ones, and only in 20% they are clearly visible before this age. In adult women, the appearance of the genitals changes markedly. The external genitalia are clearly visible during external examination in more than half of the women, moreover, in about 30% of women, the inner lips are even larger in size than the outer ones.
3. COLOR OF LABIA SMALL
In healthy women, the inner labia are light to dark pink, sometimes brown or blackish purple. The overall skin tone of a woman does not always match the color of her labia, as some women who have dark brown complexions have light pink folds in their private parts, while some women with very fair complexions have skin on their outer labia. organs are dark brown or gray in color. Almost any combination is considered normal, but if the area becomes mottled or begins to change colors, it could mean a skin condition or a rare skin cancer.
INFECTIONS AND INFLAMMATION OF SMALL LIPS
Infections often start in these places because of their moisture, as well as their proximity to the urethra and vaginal opening. The initial symptoms of infections (itching, burning, swelling and discomfort) that occur on the skin of the labia minora, then progress and move to the vulva and vagina. Other complaints may include abdominal pain, burning during urination, and increased vaginal secretion. The most common causes of vulvaginal discomfort are thrush and bacterial vaginosis, and these are successfully treated with medication. Sexually transmitted diseases, as the causes of inflammation of the labia minora, are also of concern to gynecologists.
LARGE LABIA SMALL
In most cases, the size and shape of the labia minora do not matter to a woman. They can be almost invisible when viewed from the side, or long enough to hang out of the genital gap. It is so arranged by nature that they are rarely completely symmetrical. In some girls, one very large labia minora can constantly "jump" outward (the so-called "hypertrophy"). There is a special term - "Hottengott apron" - an intimate place of a woman with overdeveloped external genitalia, covering the entrance to the vagina and hanging far, far beyond the genital gap.
It happens that girls with overdeveloped genitals become the object of increased attention and even ridicule of girlfriends in showers, saunas, locker rooms of fitness clubs, etc. places where you have to be in the nude. And, despite the fact that there is no generally accepted standard for their size, most women still prefer that they do not protrude too much, in other words, do not look saggy, especially when looking at "this place" from behind.
Are your labia majora smaller than your minor ones?
(anonymous poll: answer and see how others are doing)
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WHAT TO DO IF LABIA MINOR IS ENLARGED?
Naturally, in intimate surgery, there are operations to reduce their size. In order to achieve symmetry, that small labia, which is larger in size, is resected, that is, partial removal of excess skin is carried out. This procedure is commonly known as “labia plastic surgery” and is almost always performed for cosmetic reasons. In very rare cases, the folds can be so long that they actually interfere with sexual intercourse, maintain hygiene in this area, make it impossible to wear certain clothes - in this case The operation is performed for medical reasons.
From patient questions:
"... Tell me, please, I have different labia: one labia is larger than the other, and much more. It causes great discomfort in intimate relationships and in general when I put on a swimsuit, jeans, etc. Can this be fixed?"
"...I'm 17, and I have small labia of different sizes ... I have a complex to go to the gynecologist or undress in front of a guy. There may be some reason that one lip is larger than the other Is this normal or do I have some kind of disease?
"... I am 23 years old, since my youth, the small labia have different sizes, it gives me terrible discomfort ... Sometimes there are pains ... A gynecologist, when I was 18 years old, said that everything would pass .. but it didn’t, I I have been suffering for several years, I don’t know what to do ... The difference is about 4 cm, one labia is larger than the other ... "
Asymmetric labia are not such a rare anatomical feature in girls. Indeed, during puberty and hormonal changes in the body, the asymmetry of the labia is doubly enhanced, as there is active growth. It is so arranged by nature that it goes unevenly - at this time, both the breasts and the labia minora can have different sizes quite often. In a number of cases, this gradually levels off, but not for everyone and not always.
Individual differences in the structure of the external genital organs in girls and women do not belong to any diseases, so the question of which ones they like is purely individual. The asymmetry of the labia minora is most often congenital in nature and can sometimes cause a number of inconveniences to their mistresses - physical and psychological.
Whether or not to do an operation to correct the shape and size of the genitals should be decided by their owner, since this decision is a reflection of her aesthetic ideas about how her external genitalia should look. If everything suits you and your partner, nothing worries, does not cause embarrassment, then there is no reason to worry.
YOU DO NOT LIKE,
WHAT PUBA LIPS ARE DIFFERENT SIZE?
Come to a consultation with a gynecologist - a specialist in intimate plastic surgery of our clinic, discuss your problem, find out the best way to solve it. Depending on what kind of problem related to the appearance of the genitals brought you to the clinic, we will offer one or another variant of its solution.
All women by nature got dissimilar external data and, of course, this also applies to reproductive organs. Each representative of the fair sex has different types of labia. Some are quite satisfied with them, while others suffer from the psychological and physical discomfort caused by their irregular shape. What types of labia exist and are some of them really as ugly as women think?
Types of large female labia
The shape of the labia is laid even in utero. But throughout life, it can undergo both significant and small changes. The labia majora is a longitudinal fold of skin that normally covers the genital slit and the labia minora from an external aggressive environment. Skin color can be different - it is individual for each woman.
As such, the types of labia majora are not classified in any way. They just happen to be of normal size and thickness, asymmetrical, or underdeveloped, which do not block access to the vulva.
Types of small labia in women
Much more structural options occur in the small labia, in contrast to the large ones. Normally, they represent thin (up to 5 mm) longitudinal folds of the skin, passing into the mucous membrane and located along. Near the clitoris, the lips are divided into medial and lateral legs, stretching from the top to the entrance to the vagina, ending at the bottom with a posterior commissure that connects them.
The labia minora are located inside the large ones, and in a closed state they do not go beyond them. But this is a classic norm, and in life often everything happens just the opposite. In some cases, deviations from common truths are a pathology, while others have a good chance of being considered a kind of norm.
Types of labia minora, or rather, the classification of their changes in shape is as follows:
- Elongation - with maximum stretching to the sides, their size is more than 6 cm. This is the 4th degree; 4-6 cm are typical for grade 3; from 2 to 4 cm is the normal size of the labia minora, although women feel most comfortable when this size is not more than 1 cm when stretched.
- Protusia - zero, when in a standing position, small lips do not protrude beyond the large ones; the first degree is characteristic for protrusion by 1-3 cm; and the second - a protrusion of more than 3 cm.
- · Scalloped edges - smooth or carved edges of various shapes, which also differ in color.
- True hypertrophy - an increase in all parameters - thickness, folding, pigmentation, wrinkling
- Lack of small lips generally occurs in young girls and in women with hormonal abnormalities.
All changes in the labia depend on factors such as excess or lack of hormones, childbirth, weight loss, trauma. If the size and shape cause inconvenience not only during intercourse, but also in everyday life, they resort to plastic surgery.
As for male preferences, most representatives of the stronger sex argue that the shape and size of the labia minora in no way affect their attitude towards their beloved girl. And it also has little effect on sexual life. Most often, the problem of the irregular shape of the labia minora is exclusively in the head of the fair sex, while their men like everything without exception.
Kelly. Fundamentals of modern sexology. Ed. Peter
Translated from English by A. Golubev, K. Isupova, S. Komarov, V. Misnik, S. Pankov, S. Rysev, E. Turutina
The anatomical structure of the male and female genital organs, also called the genitals, has been known for many hundreds of years, but reliable information about their functioning has become available only recently. Male and female genitalia perform many functions and play an important role, participating in reproduction, and in obtaining pleasure, and in establishing a trusting relationship in love.
Oddly enough, most popular sex education textbooks have traditionally treated the male genital organs first as a source of pleasurable sexual sensations, and only then discussed their role in childbearing. In the study of the female genital organs, the emphasis is clearly shifting to the reproductive functions of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. The importance of the role of the vagina, clitoris, and other external structures in sexual pleasure is often overlooked. In this and the following chapter, both the male and female genital organs are described as a potential source of intimacy in human relationships and sexual enjoyment, as well as a potential source of childbearing.
FEMALE GENITAL ORGANS
The female reproductive organs are not exclusively internal. Many of their important structures located externally play a large role in providing sexual arousal, while the internal parts of the female reproductive system are more significant in regulating hormonal cycles and reproductive processes.
The external female genital organs consist of the pubis, labia and clitoris. They are richly innervated and therefore sensitive to stimulation. The shape, size and nature of the pigmentation of the external genital organs vary greatly in different women.
Vulva
The external female genital organs, located between the legs, below and in front of the pubic articulation of the pelvic bones, are collectively called the vulva. The most prominent of these organs is the pubis. ( monsveneris)and large labia (or shameful) lips (labia majora). The pubis, sometimes called the pubic eminence, or the hill of Venus, is a rounded pad formed by subcutaneous adipose tissue and located above the rest of the external organs, just above the pubic bone. During puberty, it is covered with hair. The pubis is quite abundantly innervated, and most women find that friction or pressure in this area can be sexually arousing. The vulva is generally considered the main erogenous zone in women, as it tends to be very sensitive to sexual stimulation.
The labia majora are two folds of skin directed from the pubis down towards the perineum. They can be relatively flat and barely visible in some women, and thick and prominent in others. During puberty, the skin of the large lips darkens slightly, and hair begins to grow on their outer lateral surface. These outer skin folds cover and protect the woman's more sensitive sexual organs inside. The latter cannot be seen unless the large lips are parted, so a woman may need a mirror to be positioned so that these organs can be seen.
When the labia majora are parted, one more, smaller pair of folds can be seen - the labia minora (or pudendal) lips. They look like two asymmetrical petals of skin, pink, hairless and irregularly shaped, which connect at the top and form the skin of the clitoris, which is called the foreskin. Both the labia major and minor are sensitive to sexual stimulation and play an important role in sexual arousal. On the inside of the labia minora are the outlets of the ducts of the Bartholin glands, sometimes called the vulvovaginal glands. At the moment of sexual arousal, a small amount of secretion is secreted from these glands, which, perhaps, helps to moisten the entrance to the vagina and, to some extent, the labia. These secretions, however, are of little value in lubricating the vagina during sexual arousal, and any other function of these glands is unknown. Bartholin's glands sometimes become infected with bacteria from feces or other sources, and in such cases, treatment by a specialist may be required. There are two openings between the labia minora. In order to see them, the labia minora often needs to be moved apart. Almost under the clitoris is the tiny opening of the urethra, or urethra, through which urine is expelled from the body. Below is a larger opening of the vagina, or the entrance to the vagina. This hole is usually not open and can only be perceived as such if something is inserted into it. In many women, especially those in the younger age groups, the entrance to the vagina is partially covered by a membrane-like tissue - the hymen.
The human genital organs are important for both reproduction and pleasure. Historically, sexuality educators have focused on reproductive function and the internal genitalia, especially in women. In recent years, these specialists have also begun to pay attention to those aspects of sexual behavior that are associated with obtaining pleasure, and the external genitalia.
Clitoris
The clitoris, the most sensitive of the female genital organs, is located just below the upper fusion of the labia minora. It is the only organ whose only function is to provide sensitivity to sexual stimulation and be a source of pleasure.
The clitoris is the most sensitive female genital organ. Some form of clitoral stimulation is usually necessary to achieve orgasm, although the most appropriate method varies from woman to woman. The most visible part of the clitoris usually looks like a rounded outgrowth protruding from under the foreskin, which is formed by the upper fusion of the labia minora. This outer, sensitive part of the clitoris is called the glans. For a long time, the clitoris has been likened to the male penis because it is sensitive to sexual stimulation and capable of erection. Sometimes even incorrectly considered the clitoris an underdeveloped penis. In fact, the clitoris and its entire internal system of blood vessels, nerves, and erectile tissue form a highly functional and important sexual organ (Ladas, 1989).
The body of the clitoris is located behind the head under the foreskin. The glans is the only freely protruding part of the clitoris, and, as a rule, it is not very mobile. The part of the clitoris, located behind the head, is attached to the body along its entire length. The clitoris is formed by two columnar cavernous bodies and two bulbous cavernous bodies, which are capable of filling with blood during sexual arousal, causing a hardening, or erection, of the entire organ. The length of a non-erect clitoris rarely exceeds 2-3 cm, and in an unexcited state only its top (head) is visible, but during an erection it increases significantly, especially in diameter. As a rule, in the first stages of arousal, the clitoris begins to protrude more than in the unexcited state, but as the arousal builds up, it retracts.
In the skin of the foreskin are tiny glands that secrete a fatty substance, which, mixing with the secrets of other glands, forms a substance called smegma. This substance accumulates around the body of the clitoris, sometimes leading to a benign infection that can cause pain or discomfort, especially during sexual activity. If smegma buildup becomes a problem, it may be removed by a doctor using a small probe inserted under the foreskin. Sometimes the foreskin is slightly incised surgically, further exposing the head and body of the clitoris. This procedure, known in Western culture as circumcision, is rarely performed on women, and doctors find little rationale for it.
Vagina
The vagina is a tube with muscular walls and plays an important role as a female organ associated with childbirth and sexual pleasure. The muscular walls of the vagina are very elastic, and unless something is inserted into the vaginal cavity, they are compressed, so this cavity is better described as a "potential" space. The length of the vagina is about 10 cm, although it is able to lengthen with sexual arousal. The inner surface of the vagina, elastic and soft, is covered with small comb-like protrusions. The vagina is not very sensitive, except for areas immediately surrounding the entrance to it or located deep into the entrance about one third of the length of the vagina. This outer region, however, contains many nerve endings, and its stimulation easily leads to sexual arousal.
The opening of the vagina is surrounded by two groups of muscles: the sphincter of the vagina ( sphincter vaginae)and anus levator ( levator ani). Women are able to control these muscles to some extent, but tension, pain, or fear can cause them to contract involuntarily, making it painful or impossible to insert anything into the vagina. These manifestations are called vaginismus. A woman can also regulate the tone of the internal PC muscle, which, like the anal sphincter, can be contracted or relaxed. This muscle plays a role in the formation of orgasm, and its tone, like the tone of all voluntary muscles, can be learned to regulate with the help of special exercises.
It is important to note that the vagina cannot contract to such an extent that the penis will be held in it. ( penis captivus)although it is possible that some have heard otherwise. In Africa, for example, there are many myths about people who become entangled during sex and have to go to the hospital to be separated. Such myths appear to serve the social function of preventing adultery ( Ecker , 1994). When mating dogs, the penis is erect in such a way that it is trapped in the vagina until the erection subsides, and this is necessary for successful mating. Nothing like this happens to people. During sexual arousal in women, a lubricant is released on the inner surface of the walls of the vagina.
douching
Over the years, women have developed many ways to flush their vaginas, sometimes referred to as douching. It was believed to help prevent vaginal infections and eliminate bad breath. In a study of 8,450 women aged 15 to 44 years, 37% of them were found to douche as part of their regular hygiene routine ( Aral , 1992). This practice is especially prevalent among the poor and minority people of color, where the proportion can be as high as two-thirds. One member of the National Black Women's Health Project ( Black Women's Health Project) speculated that douching may represent black women's reactions to negative sexual stereotypes. Meanwhile, research is providing increasing evidence that douching, contrary to popular belief, can be dangerous. Thanks to him, pathogens can penetrate into the uterine cavity, which increases the risk of uterine and vaginal infections. Women who douche more than three times a month put themselves at four times the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease than those who do not douche at all. The vagina has natural cleaning mechanisms that can be disrupted by douching. In the absence of specific medical indications, douching should be avoided.
Hymen
The hymen is a thin, delicate membrane that partially covers the entrance to the vagina. It may cross the opening of the vagina, surround it, or have several openings of various shapes and sizes. The physiological functions of the hymen are unknown, but historically it has had psychological and cultural significance as a sign of virginity.
The hymen, present in the vaginal opening from birth, usually has one or more openings. There are many hymens of various shapes that cover the opening of the vagina to one degree or another. The most common type is the annular hymen. In this case, its tissue is located along the perimeter of the entrance to the vagina, and there is a hole in the center. The hymen tissue of some types extends to the entrance to the vagina. The ethmoid hymen completely covers the opening of the vagina, but it itself has many small openings. The cloisonné is a single strip of tissue that separates the entrance to the vagina into two distinct openings. Occasionally, girls are born with an overgrown hymen, that is, the latter completely closes the opening of the vagina. This can be clarified only with the onset of menstruation, when the fluid, accumulating in the vagina, will cause discomfort. In such cases, the doctor must make a small hole in the hymen to allow the menstrual flow to drain.
In most cases, the hymen has a hole large enough to easily pass a finger or a swab. An attempt to insert a larger object, such as an erect penis, usually results in a tear in the hymen. There are many other circumstances, not related to sexual activity, in which the hymen can be damaged. While it is often claimed that some girls are born without a hymen, recent evidence casts doubt on whether this is actually the case. More recently, a team of pediatricians from the University of Washington examined 1,131 newborn girls and found that each had an intact hymen. From this it was concluded that the absence of a hymen at birth is highly unlikely, if not impossible. It also follows that if the hymen is not found in a little girl, some kind of trauma was most likely the cause (Jenny, Huhns. & Arakawa, 1987).
Sometimes the hymen is stretchable enough to be preserved during intercourse. Therefore, the presence of a hymen is an unreliable indicator of virginity. Some peoples attach special importance to the presence of a hymen and special rituals have been established for breaking the hymen of a girl before the first copulation.
In the United States, between 1920 and 1950, some gynecologists performed special surgery on women who were about to get married but didn't want their husbands to know they weren't virgins. The operation, called "lover's knot", consisted in applying one or two stitches to the labia minora in such a way that a thin bond appeared between them. During intercourse on the wedding night, the bow would break, causing some pain and bleeding (Janus & Janus , 1993). Many in Western society still believe to this day that having a hymen proves virginity, which is naive at best. In fact, the only way to physically determine if intercourse has taken place is to detect semen in a vaginal swab using chemical analysis or microscopic examination. This procedure must be performed within a few hours of intercourse, and in cases of rape it is sometimes used to prove that penetration of the penis into the vagina has taken place.
The rupture of the hymen during the first sexual intercourse can cause discomfort or pain and possibly some bleeding when the hymen ruptures. In different women, pain can vary from barely noticeable to severe. If a woman is concerned that her first intercourse is painless, she can expand the opening of the hymen in advance with the help of her fingers. The doctor may also remove the hymen or stretch its opening with increasing dilators. However, if your partner gently and carefully inserts an erect penis into the vagina, using adequate lubrication, there are usually no special problems. A woman can also guide her partner's penis by adjusting the speed and depth of penetration.
Female genital self-examination
After becoming familiar with the basics of their external anatomy, women are encouraged to examine their genitals monthly, looking for any unusual signs and symptoms. With the help of a mirror and under appropriate lighting, you should examine the condition of the skin under the pubic hair. Then you should pull back the skin of the foreskin of the clitoris and spread the labia minora, which will allow you to better examine the area around the openings of the vagina and urethra. Be alert for any unusual blisters, abrasions, or rashes. They may differ in redness or pallor, but sometimes they are easier to detect not visually, but by touch. Do not forget to also examine the inner surface of the labia majora and labia minora. It is also advisable, knowing what your vaginal discharge looks like in a normal state, to pay attention to any changes in their color, smell or consistency. Although certain abnormalities can usually occur during the menstrual cycle, some diseases cause well-marked changes in the vaginal discharge.
If you find any unusual swelling or discharge, you should immediately consult a gynecologist. Often, all these symptoms are completely harmless and do not require any treatment, but sometimes they signal the onset of an infectious process, when medical attention is needed. It's also important to tell your doctor about any pain or burning when urinating, bleeding between periods, pelvic pain, and any itchy rash around your vagina.
Uterus
The uterus is a hollow muscular organ in which the growth and nutrition of the fetus takes place until the very moment of childbirth. The walls of the uterus have different thicknesses in different places and consist of three layers: perimetrium, myometrium and endometrium. To the right and left of the uterus, there is one almond-shaped ovary. The two functions of the ovaries are the secretion of the hormones estrogen and progesterone and the production of eggs and their subsequent release from the ovary.
The cervix protrudes into the deepest part of the vagina. The uterus itself is a thick-walled muscular organ that provides a nutrient medium for the developing fetus during pregnancy. As a rule, it is pear-shaped, about 7-8 cm long and about 5-7 cm in diameter at the top, tapering to 2-3 cm in diameter in the part that protrudes into the vagina. During pregnancy, it gradually increases to a much larger size. When a woman is standing, her uterus is almost horizontal and at right angles to the vagina.
The two main parts of the uterus are the body and the cervix, connected by a narrower isthmus. The top of the wide part of the uterus is called its bottom. Although the cervix is not particularly sensitive to superficial touch, it is able to feel pressure. The opening in the cervix is called the os. The internal cavity of the uterus has a different width at different levels. The walls of the uterus consist of three layers: a thin outer shell - the perimetrium, a thick intermediate layer of muscle tissue - the myometrium and an inner layer rich in blood vessels and glands - the endometrium. It is the endometrium that plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and in the nutrition of the developing fetus.
Internal gynecological examination
The uterus, especially the cervix, is one of the common sites of cancer in women. Since uterine cancer can be asymptomatic for many years, it is especially dangerous. Women should periodically undergo an internal gynecological examination and have a Pap smear analyzed by a qualified gynecologist. There is disagreement among experts as to how often such an examination should be done, but most recommend doing it annually. Thanks to the Pap smear, it was possible to reduce mortality from cervical cancer by 70%. Approximately 5,000 women die in the US from this form of cancer every year, 80% of whom have not had a Pap test for the past 5 years or more.
During a gynecological examination, first of all, a vaginal speculum is carefully inserted into the vagina, which holds the vaginal walls in an expanded state. This allows a direct examination of the cervix. To take a Pap smear (named after its developer, Dr. Papanicolaou) from the cervix, using a thin spatula or swab on the rod, a certain number of cells are painlessly removed, while the vaginal mirror remains in place. A smear is prepared from the collected material, which is fixed, stained and examined under a microscope in search of any possible indications of changes in the structure of cells that may indicate the development of cancer or precancerous manifestations. In 1996, the Food and Drug Administration ( Food and Drug Administration) approved a new method for preparing the Papa smear, which eliminates the ingress of excess mucus and blood into it, which makes it difficult to detect altered cells. This made the test even more efficient and reliable than before. Recently, it has become possible to use another device that, when attached to the vaginal mirror, illuminates the cervix with light specially selected for the spectral composition. Under such illumination, normal and altered cells differ from each other in color. This greatly facilitates and speeds up the identification of suspicious areas of the cervix, which should be subjected to a more thorough examination.
After removing the mirror, a manual examination is performed. Using a rubber glove and lubricant, the doctor inserts two fingers into the vagina and presses them against the cervix. The other hand is placed on the abdomen. In this way, the doctor is able to feel the overall shape and size of the uterus and adjacent structures.
If suspicious cells are found in the Pap smear, more intensive diagnostic procedures are recommended. First of all, a biopsy can be used to determine the presence of malignant cells. If an increase in the number of altered cells is shown, another procedure called dilation and curettage (expansion and curettage) can be performed. The opening of the cervix expands, which allows you to enter a special tool - the uterine curette - into the internal cavity of the uterus. Some cells from the inner layer of the uterus are carefully scraped off and examined for the presence of malignant cells. As a rule, dilatation and curettage are used to clean the uterus from dead tissue after a miscarriage (involuntary abortion), and sometimes to terminate a pregnancy during an induced abortion.
Ovaries and fallopian tubes
On both sides of the uterus, two almond-shaped glands called ovaries are attached to it with the help of inguinal (pupart) ligaments. The two main functions of the ovaries are the secretion of female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone), and the production of eggs necessary for reproduction. Each ovary is approximately 2-3 cm long and weighs approximately 7 grams. A woman's ovary at birth contains tens of thousands of microscopic vesicles called follicles, each containing a cell that has the potential to develop into an egg. These cells are called oocytes. It is believed that only a few thousand follicles remain in the ovaries by the time of puberty, and only a small proportion (400 to 500) of them will ever turn into mature eggs.
In a mature woman, the surface of the ovary has an irregular shape and is covered with pits - traces left after the release of many eggs through the ovarian wall during the process of ovulation, described below. By examining the internal structure of the ovary, one can observe follicles at different stages of development. Two different zones are also distinguishable: the central medulla and thick outer layer, cortex. A pair of fallopian, or fallopian, tubes lead from the edge of each ovary to the top of the uterus. The end of each of the fallopian tubes, which opens next to the ovary, is covered with fringed outgrowths - fimbria, which are not attached to the ovary, but rather loosely fit it. Following the fimbria is the widest part of the tube - funnel. It leads into a narrow, irregularly shaped cavity stretching along the entire tube, which gradually narrows as it approaches the uterus.
The inner layer of the fallopian tube is covered with microscopic cilia. It is due to the movement of these cilia that the egg moves from the ovary to the uterus. For conception to occur, the sperm must meet and enter the egg while it is in one of the fallopian tubes. In this case, the already fertilized egg is transported further to the uterus, where it attaches to its wall and begins to develop into an embryo.
CROSS-CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE
Mariam Razak, was 15 when her family locked her in a room where five women held her as she struggled to break free while a sixth cut off her clitoris and labia.
This event left Mariam with the lingering feeling that she had been betrayed by the people she loved most: her parents and her boyfriend. Now, nine years later, she believes that this operation and the infection it caused have deprived her of not only the ability to have sexual satisfaction, but also the ability to have children.
It was love that led Mariam to this mutilation. She and her childhood friend, Idrissou Abdel Razak, say they had sex as teenagers and then he decided they should get married.
Without warning Mariam, he asked his father, Idrissa Ceiba, to apply to her family for permission to marry. His father offered a substantial dowry, and Mariam's parents gave their consent, while she herself was told nothing.
“My son and I asked her parents to circumcise her,” says Idrissu Ceibu. - Other girls, who were warned in advance, ran away. That is why we decided not to tell her what will be done.”
On the day scheduled for the operation, Mariam's boyfriend, a 17-year-old taxi driver, was working in Sokod, a town north of Kpalime. Today, he is ready to admit that he knew about the upcoming ceremony, but did not warn Mariam. Mariam herself now believes that together they could find a way to trick their parents into convincing them that she went through with the procedure, if only her boyfriend would support her.
When he returned, he learned that she had to be urgently taken to the hospital, as the bleeding did not stop. In the hospital, she developed an infection and stayed there for three weeks. But while, according to her, her body was recovering, the feeling of bitterness intensified.
And she decided not to marry a man who could not protect her. She borrowed $20 from a friend and took a cheap taxi to Nigeria, where she lived with friends. It took her parents nine months to find her and bring her home.
It took another six years for her boyfriend to win back her trust. He bought her clothes, shoes and jewelry as gifts. He told her that he loved her and begged for forgiveness. Eventually her anger softened and they married in 1994. Since then they have lived in his father's house.
But Mariam Razak knows what she has lost. She and her current husband made love in their youth, before she went through a mutilation, and, according to her, sex was very satisfying for her. Now, they both say, she feels nothing. She compares the permanent loss of sexual gratification to an incurable disease that stays with you until death.
“When he goes into the city, he buys drugs, which he gives me before we have sex, so that I feel pleasure. But it's not the same,” says Mariam.
Her husband agrees: “Now that she is circumcised, something is missing in this place. She doesn't feel anything there. I try to please her, but it doesn't work very well."
And their sorrows do not end there. They are also unable to conceive a child. They turned to doctors and traditional healers - all to no avail.
Idrissou Abdel Razak promises that he will not take another wife for himself, even if Mariam does not become pregnant: “I have loved Mariam since we were children. We will continue to look for a way out."
And if they ever have daughters, he promises to send them out of the country to protect them from cutting off their genitals. Source : S. Dugger. The New York Times METRO, 11 September 1996
In different cultures and in different historical periods, the clitoris and labia were subjected to various kinds of surgical operations, as a result of which women were mutilated. Based on the widespread fear of masturbation during the mid- XIX century and until about 1935, doctors in Europe and the United States often circumcised women, that is, removed, partially or completely, the clitoris - a surgical procedure called clitoridectomy. These measures were thought to "cure" masturbation and prevent insanity. In some African and East Asian cultures and religions, clitoridectomy, sometimes incorrectly referred to as "female circumcision," is still practiced as part of the rites that accompany the transition to adulthood. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 120 million women worldwide have undergone some form of what is today called female genital mutilation. Until recently, almost all girls in countries such as Egypt, Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan underwent this operation. Although it can sometimes take the form of a traditional circumcision, in which the tissue covering the clitoris is removed, more often the head of the clitoris is also removed. Sometimes an even more extensive clitoridectomy is performed, which includes the removal of the entire clitoris and a significant amount of surrounding labia tissue. As a rite of passage marking a girl's transition to adulthood, clitoridectomy means the removal of all traces of "masculine features": since the clitoris is traditionally viewed in these cultures as a miniature penis, its absence is recognized as the highest symbol of femininity. But, in addition, clitoridectomy also reduces a woman's sexual satisfaction, which is important in cultures where a man is considered obliged to control a woman's sexuality. Various taboos are established to support this practice. In Nigeria, for example, some women believe that if the baby's head touches the clitoris during childbirth, the baby will develop a mental disorder ( Ecker, 1994). In a number of cultures, there is also the custom of infibulation, in which the labia minora and sometimes the labia majora are removed and the edges of the outer part of the vagina are sewn or held together with plant spines or natural adhesives, thus ensuring that the woman does not have sexual intercourse before marriage. The bonding material is removed before marriage, although the procedure may be repeated if the husband is going to be away for a long time. This often results in coarse scar tissue that can make urination, menstruation, intercourse, and childbirth more difficult and painful. Infibulation is common in cultures where virginity is highly valued at marriage. When women who have undergone this operation are chosen as brides, they bring significant benefits to their family in the form of money, property and livestock (Eskeg, 1994).
These rites are often performed with crude instruments and without anesthesia. Girls and women undergoing such procedures often become infected with serious illnesses, and the use of non-sterile instruments can lead to AIDS. Girls sometimes die as a result of bleeding or infection caused by this operation. In addition, evidence is accumulating that such ritual surgery can cause severe psychological trauma, with long-term effects on women's sexuality, marriage and childbearing ( Lightfoot-Klein, 1989; MacFarquhar, 1996). The influence of civilization has brought some improvements to the traditional practice, so that in some places today aseptic methods are already used to reduce the risk of infection. For some time, the Egyptian health authorities have encouraged this operation to be carried out in medical institutions to avoid possible complications, while at the same time providing family counseling to end this practice. In 1996, the Egyptian Ministry of Health decided to ban all medical professionals from both public and private clinics from performing any type of female genital mutilation. However, it is believed that many families will continue to turn to local medicine men to fulfill these ancient prescriptions.
There is growing condemnation of the practice, which is seen by some groups as barbaric and sexist. In the United States, this issue has come under closer scrutiny as it is now becoming clear that some immigrant girls from over 40 countries may have been subjected to a similar procedure in the United States. A woman named Fauzia Kasinga fled the African country of Togo in 1994 to avoid mutilation and eventually arrived in the States illegally. She applied for asylum, but the immigration judge initially dismissed her arguments as unconvincing. After she spent over one year in prison, the Board of Immigration Appeals ruled in 1996 that female genital mutilation did indeed constitute an act of persecution and was a legitimate basis for granting women asylum ( Dugger , 1996). Although such practices are sometimes seen as a cultural imperative that should be respected, this court ruling and other developments in developed countries underline the idea that such operations constitute a violation of human rights that must be condemned and stopped ( Rosenthal, 1996).
Female genital mutilation often has deep roots in the way of life of the representatives of this or that culture, reflecting the patriarchal tradition, in which the woman is considered the property of the man, and female sexuality is subordinated to the male. This custom can be regarded as a fundamental component of initiation rites, symbolizing the girl's acquisition of the status of an adult woman, and therefore serve as a source of pride. But with increasing attention to human rights around the world, including in developing countries, opposition to such practices is growing. There is fierce debate in countries where these procedures continue to apply. Younger and more Westernized women—often with the support of their husbands—are calling for a more symbolic initiation rite that would preserve the positive cultural value of the traditional ritual but avoid painful and dangerous surgery. Feminists in the Western world are especially eloquent about this issue, arguing that such procedures are not only dangerous to health, but also an attempt to emphasize the dependent position of a woman. Such disputes are a classic example of the clash between culture-specific customs and globally changing views on sexuality and gender issues.
Definitions
CLITOR - an organ sensitive to sexual stimulation, located in the upper part of the vulva; fills with blood during sexual arousal.
CLITOR HEAD - the outer, sensitive part of the clitoris, located at the upper fusion of the labia minora.
CLITOR BODY- an elongated part of the clitoris containing tissue that can fill with blood.
VULVA- external female genital organs, including the pubis, large and small labia, clitoris and vaginal opening.
PUBIS- an elevation formed by adipose tissue and located above the pubic bone of a woman.
LARGE LIPS - two outer folds of skin covering the labia minora, clitoris and openings of the urethra and vagina.
LABIA SMALL - two folds of skin within the space bounded by large lips, connecting above the clitoris and located on the sides of the openings of the urethra and vagina.
FORESKIN - in women, a tissue in the upper part of the vulva that covers the body of the clitoris.
BARTHOLINIAN GLANDS - small glands, the secret of which is secreted during sexual arousal through the excretory ducts that open at the base of the labia minora.
URINARY OPENING - opening through which urine is expelled from the body.
VAGINA ENTRY - external opening of the vagina.
VIRGIN HYLEVA - connective tissue membrane, which can partially close the entrance to the vagina.
SMEGMAA thick, oily substance that can accumulate under the foreskin of the clitoris or penis.
CIRCUMCISION- in women - a surgical operation that exposes the body of the clitoris, in which its foreskin is cut.
INFIBULATIONA surgical procedure used in some cultures in which the edges of the vaginal opening are held together.
CLITORODECTOMY - surgical removal of the clitoris, a common procedure in some cultures.
VAGINISM- involuntary spasm of the muscles located at the entrance to the vagina, making it difficult or impossible to penetrate it.
PUNOCOPHIC MUSCLE - part of the muscles supporting the vagina, is involved in the formation of an orgasm in women; women are able to control his tone to some extent.
VAGINA- a muscular channel in a woman's body that is susceptible to sexual arousal and into which sperm must enter during intercourse in order for conception to occur.
UTERUS - a muscular organ in the female reproductive system in which a fertilized egg is implanted.
CERVIX - the narrower part of the uterus that protrudes into the vagina.
ISTHHUM - narrowing of the uterus directly above its neck.
BOTTOM (UTERUS) - wide upper part of the uterus.
ZEV - an opening in the cervix leading to the uterine cavity.
PERIMETRIES - outer layer of the uterus.
MYOMETRIUM - middle, muscular layer of the uterus.
ENDOMETRIUM - the inner layer of the uterus lining its cavity.
STROKE PAPA - microscopic examination of a preparation of cells taken by scraping from the surface of the cervix, carried out in order to detect any cellular abnormalities.
OVERS - a pair of female sex glands (gonads) located in the abdominal cavity and producing eggs and female sex hormones.
EGG- female germ cellformed in the ovary; fertilized by sperm.
FOLLICLE- a conglomerate of cells surrounding a maturing egg.
OOCYTES - cells are the precursors of the oocyte.
FALLOPIAN TUBES - structures associated with the uterus, through which the eggs are transferred from the ovaries to the uterine cavity.
External genitalia.
The external female genital organs include the pubis - the lowest section of the anterior abdominal wall, the skin of which is covered with hair; labia majora, formed by 2 folds of skin and containing connective tissue; the labia minora, located medially from the large ones and containing the sebaceous glands. The slit-like space between the small lips forms the vestibule of the vagina. In its front part is the clitoris, formed by the cavernous bodies, similar in structure to the cavernous bodies of the male penis. Behind the clitoris is the external opening of the urethra, posterior and downward from which is the entrance to the vagina. On the sides of the entrance to the vagina, the ducts of the large glands of the vestibule of the vagina (Bartholin's glands) open, secreting a secret that moisturizes the labia minora and the vestibule of the vagina. In the vestibule of the vagina there are small sebaceous glands. The hymen is the boundary between the external and internal genital organs.
Pubis- elevation above the pubic symphysis, resulting from a thickening of the layer. The pubis in appearance is a triangular-shaped surface located in the lowest part of the abdominal wall. With the onset of puberty, pubic hair begins, while the pubic hairline is hard and curly. The color of the pubic hair, as a rule, corresponds to the color of the eyebrows and hair on the head, but they turn gray much later than the latter. The growth of pubic hair in women, paradoxically, is caused by male hormones, which, with the onset of puberty, begin to secrete the adrenal glands. After menopause, hormonal levels change. As a result, they thin out, their waviness disappears. It is worth noting that pubic hair is genetically determined and differs somewhat depending on nationality.
So, in women of the Mediterranean countries, abundant hair growth is observed, which also extends to the inner surface of the thighs and up to the navel, which is explained by an increased level of androgens in the blood. In turn, in Eastern and Northern women, pubic hair is sparse and lighter. According to most experts, the nature of pubic hair is associated with the genetic characteristics of women of different nationalities, although there are exceptions here. Many modern women are unhappy with the presence of pubic hair and seek to get rid of them in different ways. At the same time, they forget that the pubic hairline performs such an important function as protection against mechanical injuries, and also does not allow vaginal discharge to evaporate, while maintaining natural female protection and smell. In this regard, the gynecologists of our medical center advise women to remove hair only in the so-called bikini zone, where they really look unaesthetic, and only shorten in the pubic and labia area.
Large labia
Paired thick folds of skin running from the pubis posteriorly towards the perineum. Together with the labia minora, they limit the genital gap. They have a connective tissue basis and contain a lot of fatty tissue. On the inner surface of the lips, the skin is thinned, contains many sebaceous and sweat glands. Connecting near the pubis and in front of the perineum, the labia majora form anterior and posterior adhesions. The skin is slightly pigmented and covered with hair from puberty, and also contains sebaceous and sweat glands, due to which it can be affected by specific ones. The most common of these are sebaceous cysts, which are associated with clogged pores, and boils when an infection enters the hair follicle. In this regard, it is necessary to say about the importance of hygiene of the labia majora: be sure to wash yourself daily, avoid contact with dirty other people's towels (not to mention underwear), and also change underwear in a timely manner. The main function performed by the labia majora is to protect the vagina from germs and retention in it of a special moisturizing secret. In girls, the large labia are tightly closed from birth, which makes the protection even more reliable. With the onset of sexual activity, the labia majora open.
Small labia
Inside of the labia majora are the labia minora, which are thinner skin folds. Their outer surfaces are covered with stratified squamous epithelium, on the inner surfaces the skin gradually passes into the mucous membrane. In the small lips there are no sweat glands, they are devoid of hair. Have sebaceous glands; richly supplied with vessels and nerve endings, which determine sexual sensitivity during intercourse. The front edge of each small lip splits into two legs. The anterior legs merge above the clitoris and form its foreskin, and the posterior legs join under the clitoris, forming its frenulum. The size of the labia minora in different women is completely different, as well as the color (from pale pink to brown), while they can have even or peculiar fringed edges. All this is a physiological norm and in no case speaks of any diseases. The tissue of the labia minora is very elastic and can stretch. Thus, during childbirth, she gives the opportunity for the child to be born. In addition, due to the many nerve endings, the small lips are extremely sensitive, so they swell and turn red when sexually aroused.
Clitoris
Ahead of the small labia is such a female genital organ as the clitoris. In its structure, it is somewhat reminiscent of the male penis, but several times smaller than the latter. The standard size of the clitoris in length does not exceed 3 cm. The clitoris has a leg, body, head and foreskin. It consists of two cavernous bodies (right and left), each of which is covered with a dense shell - the fascia of the clitoris. The cavernous bodies fill with blood during sexual arousal, causing an erection of the clitoris. The clitoris contains a large number of blood vessels and nerve endings, making it a source of arousal and sexual satisfaction.
Vaginal vestibule
The space between the internal ones, bounded from above by the clitoris, from the sides by the labia minora, and from behind and below by the posterior commissure of the labia majora. The hymen is separated from the vagina. On the eve of the vagina, the excretory ducts of large and small glands open. The large gland of the vestibule (Bartholin's) is a paired organ the size of a large pea. It is located in the thickness of the posterior parts of the labia majora. It has an alveolar-tubular structure; glands are lined with secretory epithelium, and their excretory ducts are stratified columnar. The large glands of the vestibule, during sexual arousal, secrete a secret that moisturizes the entrance to the vagina and creates a weak alkaline environment favorable for spermatozoa. The Bartholin glands were named after Caspar Bartholin, the anatomist who discovered them. The bulb of the vestibule is an unpaired cavernous formation located at the base of the labia majora. It consists of two lobes connected by a thin arcuate intermediate part.
Internal sex organs
The internal genital organs are probably the most important part of the female reproductive system: they are entirely designed for conceiving and bearing a child. The internal genital organs include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina; The ovaries and fallopian tubes are often referred to as the uterine appendages.
Video about the structure of the genital organs in women
female urethra has a length of 3-4 cm. It is located in front of the vagina and somewhat protrudes the corresponding part of its wall in the form of a roller. The external opening of the female urethra opens on the eve of the vagina posterior to the clitoris. The mucous membrane is lined with pseudo-stratified epithelium, and near the external opening - with stratified squamous epithelium. In the mucous membrane there are Littre's glands and Morgagni's lacunae. Paraurethral ducts are tubular branching formations 1-2 cm long. They are located on both sides of the urethra. In depth, they are lined with columnar epithelium, and the outer sections are cuboidal and then stratified squamous. The ducts open in the form of pinholes on the lower semicircle of the roller, bordering the external opening of the urethra. Allocate a secret that moisturizes the external opening of the urethra. Ovary- steam gonad, where eggs are formed and mature, sex hormones are produced. The ovaries are located on both sides of the uterus, with which each of them is connected by a fallopian tube. Through its own ligament, the ovary is attached to the corner of the uterus, and by the suspensory ligament to the side wall of the pelvis. Has an ovoid shape; length 3-5 cm, width 2 cm, thickness 1 cm, weight 5-8 g. The right ovary is somewhat larger than the left. The part of the ovary protruding into the abdominal cavity is covered with cuboidal epithelium. Beneath it is a dense connective tissue that forms the tunica albuginea. In the cortical layer located under it there are primary, secondary (vesicular) and mature follicles, follicles in the stage of atresia, corpus luteum at different stages of development. Under the cortical layer lies the medulla of the ovary, consisting of loose connective tissue, which contains blood vessels, nerves and muscle fibers.The main functions of the ovaries are the secretion of steroid hormones, including estrogens, progesterone and small amounts of androgens, which cause the appearance and formation of secondary sexual characteristics; the onset of menstruation, as well as the development of fertile eggs that ensure reproductive function. The formation of eggs occurs cyclically. During the menstrual cycle, which usually lasts 28 days, one of the follicles matures. The mature follicle ruptures, and the egg enters the abdominal cavity, from where it is carried into the fallopian tube. In place of the follicle, a corpus luteum appears, functioning during the second half of the cycle.
Egg- a sex cell (gamete), from which a new organism develops after fertilization. It has a rounded shape with an average diameter of 130-160 microns, is motionless. Contains a small amount of yolk, evenly distributed in the cytoplasm. The egg is surrounded by membranes: the primary is the cell membrane, the secondary is the non-cellular transparent shiny membrane (zona pellucida) and follicular cells that feed the egg during its development in the ovary. Under the primary shell is the cortical layer, consisting of cortical granules. When the egg is activated, the contents of the granules are released into the space between the primary and secondary membranes, causing agglutination of spermatozoons and thereby blocking the penetration of several spermatozoons into the egg. The egg contains a haploid (single) set of chromosomes.
The fallopian tubes(oviducts, fallopian tubes) is a paired tubular organ. In fact, the fallopian tubes are two filiform canals of a standard length of 10 - 12 cm and a diameter not exceeding a few millimeters (from 2 to 4 mm). The fallopian tubes are located on both sides of the bottom of the uterus: one side of the fallopian tube is connected to the uterus, and the other is adjacent to the ovary. Through the fallopian tubes, the uterus is "connected" with the abdominal cavity - the fallopian tubes open with a narrow end into the uterine cavity, and with an expanded one - directly into the peritoneal cavity. Thus, in women, the abdominal cavity is not airtight, and any infection that could get into the uterus causes inflammatory diseases not only of the reproductive system, but also of internal organs (liver, kidneys), and peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum). Obstetricians and gynecologists strongly recommend visiting a gynecologist once every six months. Such a simple procedure as an examination prevents complications of inflammatory diseases - the development of precancerous conditions - erosion, ectopia, leukoplakia, endometriosis, polyps. The fallopian tube consists of: a funnel, an ampulla, an isthmus and a uterine part. in turn, they consist of a mucous membrane covered with ciliated epithelium, from the muscular membrane and from the serous membrane. The funnel is the expanded end of the fallopian tube, which opens into the peritoneum. The funnel ends with long and narrow outgrowths - fringes that "cover" the ovary. The fringes play a very important role - they oscillate, creating a current that "sucks" the egg that has left the ovary into the funnel - like into a vacuum cleaner. If something in this infundibulum-fimbria-ovum system fails, fertilization can occur right in the abdomen, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. The funnel is followed by the so-called ampulla of the fallopian tube, then - the narrowest part of the fallopian tube - the isthmus. Already the isthmus of the oviduct passes into its uterine part, which opens into the uterine cavity with the uterine opening of the tube. Thus, the main task of the fallopian tubes is to connect the upper part of the uterus with the ovary.
Fallopian tubes have dense elastic walls. In a woman's body, they perform one, but a very important function: as a result of ovulation, the egg is fertilized by a sperm in them. Through them, the fertilized egg passes into the uterus, where it strengthens and develops further. The fallopian tubes serve specifically to fertilize, conduct and strengthen the egg from the ovary to the uterine cavity. The mechanism of this process is as follows: the egg that has matured in the ovaries moves along the fallopian tube with the help of special cilia located on the inner lining of the tubes. On the other hand, spermatozoa that have previously passed through the uterus are moving towards her. In the event that fertilization occurs, the division of the egg immediately begins. In turn, the fallopian tube at this time nourishes, protects and promotes the egg to the uterine cavity, with which the fallopian tube is connected with its narrow end. Promotion is gradual, about 3 cm per day.
If any obstacle is encountered (adhesions, adhesions, polyps) or a narrowing of the canal is observed, the fertilized egg remains in the tube, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. In such a situation, it becomes very important to identify this pathology in time and provide the woman with the necessary assistance. The only way out in a situation of ectopic pregnancy is its surgical interruption, since there is a high risk of rupture of the tube and bleeding into the abdominal cavity. Such a development of events poses a great danger to the life of a woman. Also in gynecological practice, there are cases when the end of the tube facing the uterus is closed, which makes it impossible for the sperm and the egg to meet. At the same time, at least one normally functioning tube is sufficient for the onset of pregnancy. If they are both impassable, then we can talk about physiological infertility. At the same time, modern medical technologies make it possible to conceive a child even with such violations. According to specialists - obstetricians and gynecologists, the practice of introducing an egg fertilized outside the body of a woman directly into the uterine cavity, bypassing the fallopian tubes, has already been established.
Uterus is a smooth muscle hollow organ located in the pelvic area. The shape of the uterus resembles a pear and is intended mainly for carrying a fertilized egg during pregnancy. The weight of the uterus of a nulliparous woman is about 50 g. During pregnancy, thanks to the elastic walls, the uterus can grow up to 32 cm in height and 20 cm in width, supporting a fetus weighing up to 5 kg. In menopause, the size of the uterus decreases, atrophy of its epithelium, sclerotic changes in blood vessels occur.
The uterus is located in the pelvic cavity between the bladder and the rectum. Normally, it is tilted anteriorly, on both sides it is supported by special ligaments that do not allow it to fall and, at the same time, provide the necessary minimum of movement. Thanks to these ligaments, the uterus is able to respond to changes in neighboring organs (for example, bladder overflow) and take the optimal position for itself: the uterus can move backward when the bladder is full, forward - when the rectum is full, rise up - during pregnancy. The fastening of the ligaments is very complex, and it is precisely its nature that is the reason why a pregnant woman is not recommended to raise her hands high: this position of the hands leads to tension in the ligaments of the uterus, to the tension of the uterus itself and its displacement. This, in turn, can cause unnecessary displacement of the fetus in late pregnancy. Among the violations of the development of the uterus, congenital malformations are distinguished, such as the complete absence of the uterus, agenesis, aplasia, doubling, bicornuate uterus, unicornuate uterus, as well as position anomalies - uterine prolapse, displacement, prolapse. Diseases associated with the uterus are most often manifested in various menstrual irregularities. Such problems of women as infertility, miscarriage, as well as inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, tumors are associated with diseases of the uterus.
In the structure of the uterus, the following departments are distinguished
Cervix
Isthmus of the uterus
The body of the uterus
The bottom of the uterus - its upper part
A kind of muscular "ring" with which the uterus ends and which connects to the vagina. The cervix is about a third of its entire length and has a special small opening - the cervical canal of the cervix, the yawn, through which menstrual blood enters the vagina and then out. Through the same opening, spermatozoa enter the uterus for the purpose of subsequent fertilization in the fallopian tubes of the egg. The cervical canal is closed with a mucous plug, which is pushed out during orgasm. Spermatozoa penetrate through this plug, and the alkaline environment of the cervix contributes to their stability and mobility. The shape of the cervix differs in women who have given birth and who have not given birth. In the first case, it is round or in the form of a truncated cone, in the second - wider, flat, cylindrical. The shape of the cervix changes even after abortions, and it is no longer possible to deceive the gynecologist after the examination. In the same area, uterine ruptures can also occur, since this is the thinnest part of it.
The body of the uterus- actually the main part of it. Like the vagina, the body of the uterus consists of three layers (shells). First, it is the mucous membrane (endometrium). This layer is also called the mucosal layer. This layer lines the uterine cavity and is abundantly supplied with blood vessels. The endometrium is covered with a single layer of prismatic ciliated epithelium. The endometrium "submits" to changes in the hormonal background of a woman: during the menstrual cycle, processes occur in it that prepare for pregnancy. However, if fertilization does not occur, the surface layer of the endometrium is rejected. For this purpose, menstrual bleeding occurs. After the end of menstruation, the cycle begins again, and the deeper layer of the endometrium takes part in the restoration of the uterine mucosa after the rejection of the surface layer. In fact, the “old” mucosa is replaced with a “new” mucosa. Summing up, we can say that, depending on the phase of the monthly cycle, the endometrial tissue either grows, preparing for the implantation of the embryo, or is rejected - if pregnancy does not occur. If pregnancy does occur, the uterine mucosa begins to act as a bed for a fertilized egg. This is a very cozy nest for the fetus.
Hormonal processes during pregnancy change, preventing endometrial rejection. Accordingly, there should be no bleeding from the vagina normally during pregnancy. The mucous membrane lining the cervix is rich in glands that produce thick mucus. This mucus, like a cork, fills the cervical canal. This mucous "plug" contains special substances that can kill microorganisms, preventing infection from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes. But during the period of ovulation and menstrual bleeding, the mucus "liquefies" so as not to interfere with the spermatozoa to enter the uterus, and the blood, respectively, to flow out of there. At both these moments, the woman becomes less protected for the penetration of infections, the carrier of which can be spermatozoa. If we take into account that the fallopian tubes open directly into the peritoneum, the risk of infection spreading to the genitals and internal organs increases many times over. It is for this reason that all doctors urge women to be very attentive to their health and prevent complications by undergoing preventive examinations by a professional gynecologist every six months and carefully choosing a sexual partner.
Middle layer of the uterus(muscular, myometrium) consists of smooth muscle fibers. The myometrium consists of three muscle layers: longitudinal outer, annular middle and inner, which are closely intertwined (arranged in several layers and in different directions). The muscles of the uterus are the strongest in a woman's body, because by nature they are designed to push the fetus during childbirth. This is one of the most important functions of the uterus. It is precisely at the time of birth that they reach their full development. Also, the thick muscles of the uterus protect the fetus during pregnancy from external shocks. The muscles of the uterus are always in good shape. They contract slightly and relax. Contractions increase during intercourse and during menstruation. Accordingly, in the first case, these movements help the movement of sperm, in the second - the rejection of the endometrium.
outer layer(serous layer, perimetry) is a specific connective tissue. This is a part of the peritoneum, which is fused with the uterus in different parts. In front, next to the bladder, the peritoneum forms a fold, which is important when performing a caesarean section. To access the uterus, this fold is surgically dissected, and then a suture is made under it, which is successfully closed by it.
Vagina- a tubular organ bounded at the bottom by the hymen or its remnants, and at the top by the cervix. It has a length of 8-10 cm, a width of 2-3 cm. It is surrounded on all sides by perivaginal tissue. At the top, the vagina expands, forming arches (anterior, posterior and lateral). There are also anterior and posterior walls of the vagina, which consist of mucous, muscular and adventitious membranes. The mucous membrane is lined with stratified squamous epithelium and is devoid of glands. Due to the vaginal folds, more pronounced on the anterior and posterior walls, its surface is rough. Normally, the mucous membrane is shiny, pink. Under the mucous membrane there is a muscular layer, formed mainly by longitudinally extending bundles of smooth muscles, between which the annular muscles are located. The adventitial membrane is formed by loose fibrous connective tissue; it separates the vagina from neighboring organs. The contents of the vagina are whitish in color, cheesy consistency, with a specific odor, formed due to extravasation of fluid from the blood and lymphatic vessels and desquamation of epithelial cells.
The vagina is an elastic kind of canal, an easily extensible muscular tube that connects the vulva and uterus. The size of the vagina is slightly different for every woman. The average length, or depth, of the vagina is between 7 and 12 cm. When a woman is standing, the vagina curves upward slightly, neither vertical nor horizontal. The walls of the vagina are 3-4 mm thick and consist of three layers:
- internal. This is the lining of the vagina. It is lined by stratified squamous epithelium, which forms numerous transverse folds into the vagina. These folds, if necessary, allow the vagina to change its size.
- Medium. This is the smooth muscle layer of the vagina. The muscle bundles are oriented mainly longitudinally, but there are also bundles of a circular direction. In its upper part, the muscles of the vagina pass into the muscles of the uterus. In the lower part of the vagina, they become stronger, gradually weaving into the muscles of the perineum.
- outdoor. The so-called adventitial layer. This layer consists of loose connective tissue with elements of muscle and elastic fibers.
The walls of the vagina are divided into anterior and posterior, which are connected to each other. The upper end of the vaginal wall covers part of the cervix, highlighting its vaginal part and forming around this area the so-called vaginal vault.
The lower end of the vaginal wall opens into the vestibule. In virgins, this opening is closed by the hymen.
Usually pale pink in color, during pregnancy, the walls of the vagina become brighter and darker. In addition, the vaginal walls have body temperature and are soft to the touch.
With great elasticity, the vagina expands during intercourse. Also during childbirth, it is able to increase to 10 - 12 cm in diameter to enable the fetus to come out. This feature is provided by the middle, smooth muscle layer. In turn, the outer layer, consisting of connective tissue, connects the vagina with neighboring organs that are not related to the female genital organs - with the bladder and rectum, which, respectively, are located in front and behind the vagina.
The walls of the vagina, as well as the cervical canal(the so-called cervical canal), and the uterine cavity are lined with glands that secrete mucus. This mucus is whitish in color with a characteristic odor, has a slightly acidic reaction (pH 4.0-4.2) and has bactericidal properties due to the presence of lactic acid. To determine the nature of the contents and microflora of the vagina, a vaginal smear is used. Mucus not only moisturizes a normal, healthy vagina, but also cleanses it of the so-called “biological debris” - from the bodies of dead cells, from bacteria, due to its acidic reaction it prevents the development of many pathogenic microbes etc. Normally, mucus from the vagina is not excreted outside - internal processes are such that during the normal functioning of this organ, the amount of mucus produced is equal to the amount absorbed. If mucus is secreted, then in very small quantities. In the event that you have abundant discharge, which are in no way connected with the days of ovulation, you need to contact a gynecologist and undergo a detailed examination, even if nothing bothers you. Vaginal discharge is a symptom of inflammatory processes that can be caused by both not very, and very dangerous infections, in particular, chlamydia. Thus, chlamydia infections often have a latent course, but cause irreversible changes in the female reproductive system, leading to miscarriages, miscarriages, and infertility.
Normally, the vagina should be moist all the time, which not only helps to maintain a healthy microflora, but also to ensure a full-fledged sexual intercourse. The process of vaginal secretion is regulated by the action of estrogen hormones. Characteristically, during menopause, the amount of hormones decreases sharply, as a result of which there is dryness of the vagina, as well as pain during intercourse. In such a situation, a woman should consult a specialist. After the examination, the gynecologist will prescribe medicines that help with this problem. Individually selected treatment has a positive effect on general well-being in the premenopausal and menopausal period.
In the depths of the vagina is Cervix, which looks like a dense rounded roller. The cervix has an opening - the so-called cervical canal of the cervix. The entrance to it is closed with a dense mucous plug, and therefore objects inserted into the vagina (for example, tampons) cannot pass into the uterus in any way. However, in any case, objects left in the vagina can become a source of infection. In particular, it is necessary to change the tampon in a timely manner and monitor whether it causes any pain.
In addition, contrary to popular belief, there are few nerve endings in the vagina, so it is not as sensitive and is not the main woman. The most sensitive of the genital organs of a woman is the vulva.
Recently, in the special medical and sexological literature, much attention has been paid to the so-called G-spot, located in the vagina and capable of delivering a lot of pleasant sensations to a woman during intercourse. This point was first described by Dr. Grefenberg, and since then there has been debate whether it really exists. At the same time, it has been proven that on the anterior wall of the vagina, at a depth of about 2-3 cm, there is an area that is slightly dense to the touch, about 1 cm in diameter, the stimulation of which really gives strong sensations and makes the orgasm more complete. At the same time, the G-spot can be compared with the prostate in a man, since, in addition to the usual vaginal secretion, it secretes a specific fluid.
Female sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone
There are two main hormones that have the greatest impact on the condition and functioning of the female reproductive system - estrogen and progesterone.
Estrogen is considered the female hormone. It is often referred to in the plural because there are several types. They are constantly produced by the ovaries from the onset of puberty to menopause, but their number depends on what phase of the menstrual cycle the woman is in. One of the signs that these hormones have already begun to be produced in the girl’s body is an increase in the mammary glands and swelling of the nipples. In addition, the girl, as a rule, suddenly begins to grow rapidly, and then growth stops, which is also affected by estrogens.
In the body of an adult woman, estrogens perform a number of important functions. Firstly, they are responsible for the course of the menstrual cycle, since their level in the blood regulates the activity of the hypothalamus and, consequently, all other processes. But besides this, estrogens also affect the functioning of other parts of the body. In particular, they protect blood vessels from the accumulation of cholesterol plaques on their walls, which cause diseases such as; regulate water-salt metabolism, increase the density of the skin and contribute to its hydration, regulate the activity of the sebaceous glands. Also, these hormones maintain bone strength and stimulate the formation of new bone tissue, retaining in it the necessary substances - calcium and phosphorus. In this regard, during menopause, when the ovaries produce a very small amount of estrogens, fractures or development are not uncommon in women.
considered a male hormone since it dominates in men (recall that any person contains a certain amount of both hormones). Unlike estrogens, it is produced only after the egg has left its follicle and the corpus luteum has formed. In the event that this does not happen, progesterone is not produced. According to gynecologists and endocrinologists, the absence of progesterone in a woman's body can be considered normal in the first two years after the onset of menstruation and in the period preceding menopause. However, at other times, a lack of progesterone is a serious enough violation, as it can lead to the inability to become pregnant. In a woman's body, progesterone acts only together with estrogens and, as it were, in opposition to them, according to the dialectical law of philosophy about the struggle and unity of opposites. So, progesterone reduces the swelling of the tissues of the mammary glands and uterus, contributes to the thickening of the fluid secreted by the cervix, and the formation of the so-called mucous plug that closes the cervical canal. In general, progesterone, preparing the uterus for pregnancy, acts in such a way that it is constantly at rest, reduces the number of contractions. In addition, the hormone progesterone has a specific effect on other body systems. In particular, it is able to reduce the feeling of hunger and thirst, affects the emotional state, “slows down” the vigorous activity of a woman. Thanks to him, body temperature can rise by several tenths of a degree. It should be noted that, as a rule, frequent mood changes, irritability, sleep problems, etc. in the premenstrual and menstrual period itself are the result of an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Thus, having noticed such symptoms in herself, it is best for a woman to contact a specialist, a gynecologist, in order to normalize her condition and prevent possible health problems.
Infections of the female genital organs.
In recent years, the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in women has reached alarming proportions, especially among young people. Many girls begin their sexual life early and are not distinguished by discriminating partners, explaining this by the fact that the sexual revolution took place long ago and a woman has the right to choose. Unfortunately, the fact that the right to choose promiscuous relationships also implies the “right” to get sick is of little interest to young girls. You have to deal with the consequences later, being treated for infertility caused by infections. There are other causes of female infections: a woman becomes infected from her husband or simply by household means. It is known that the female body is less resistant to STI pathogens than the male body. Studies have shown that the reason for this fact is female hormones. Therefore, women face another danger - when using hormone therapy or using hormonal contraceptives, they increase their susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and herpes viruses. Previously, only three sexually transmitted diseases were known to science: syphilis, gonorrhea and mild chancre. Recently, some types of hepatitis and HIV have joined them.
However, with the improvement of diagnostic methods, many unknown female infections affecting the reproductive system were discovered: trichomoniasis, chlamydia, bacterial vaginosis, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, herpes and some others. Their consequences are not as terrible as the consequences of syphilis or HIV infection, but they are dangerous because, firstly, they undermine the woman's immune system, opening the way to all sorts of diseases, and secondly, without treatment, many of these diseases lead to female infertility or have a damaging effect on the fetus during pregnancy or during childbirth. The main symptoms of women are copious discharge from the genital tract with an unpleasant odor, burning, itching. If the patient does not seek medical help in a timely manner, then bacterial vaginitis may develop, that is, inflammation of the vagina that affects the internal genital organs of a woman and again becomes the cause. Another complication of genital infections in a woman that develops in all cases of infection is dysbacteriosis or dysbiosis, that is, a violation of the vaginal microflora. This is due to the fact that any STI pathogen, getting into the female genital tract, violates the natural normal microflora, replacing it with a pathogenic one. As a result, inflammatory processes develop in the vagina, which can also affect other organs of the woman's reproductive system - the ovaries and uterus. Therefore, in the treatment of any sexual infection in a woman, the causative agent of the disease is first destroyed, and then the vaginal microflora is restored and the immune system is strengthened.
Diagnosis and treatment of genital infections in women is carried out successfully only if the patient consults a doctor in a timely manner. In addition, it is necessary to treat not only the woman, but also her sexual partner, otherwise re-infection will occur very quickly, which will lead to even more serious consequences than the primary one. Therefore, at the first signs of infection of the genital organs (pain, itching, burning, discharge and unpleasant odor from the genital tract) or with signs of infection in a sexual partner, a woman should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
As for prevention, its main method is discriminating in the choice of sexual partners, using barrier contraception, observing the rules of intimate hygiene and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that will help maintain immunity that prevents infection with STIs. Diseases: HIV, gardnerellosis, genital herpes, hepatitis, candidiasis, mycoplasmosis, thrush, papillomavirus, toxoplasmosis, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis, chlamydia, cytomegalovirus.
Let's take a closer look at some of them.
Candidiasis (thrush)
Candidiasis, or thrush, is an inflammatory disease caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. Normally, Candida fungi in small quantities are part of the normal microflora of the mouth, vagina and colon in absolutely healthy people. How can these normal bacteria cause disease? Inflammatory processes are caused not just by the presence of fungi of the genus Candida, but by their reproduction in large numbers. Why are they growing rapidly? Z often the reason is a decrease in immunity. The beneficial bacteria of our mucous membranes die, or the body's defenses are depleted, and cannot prevent the uncontrolled growth of fungi. In the vast majority of cases, a decrease in immunity is the result of some kind of infection (including latent infections). That is why very often candidiasis is a litmus test, an indicator of more serious problems in the genitals, and a competent doctor will always recommend to his patient a more detailed diagnosis of the causes of candidiasis than just the detection of Candida fungi in a smear.
Video about candidiasis and its treatment
Candidiasis quite rarely "takes root" on the genitals of men. Often, thrush is a female disease. The appearance of symptoms of candidiasis in men should alert them: either immunity is seriously reduced, or the presence of candida signals the likely presence of another infection, in particular, STIs. Candidiasis (the second name is thrush) in general terms can be defined as vaginal discharge, accompanied by itching or burning. According to official statistics, candidiasis (thrush) accounts for at least 30% of all vaginal infections, but many women prefer self-treatment with antifungal drugs to see a doctor, so the true frequency of the disease is unknown. Experts note that most often thrush occurs in women in the range from 20 to 45 years. Often, thrush is accompanied by infectious diseases of the genital organs and the urinary system. In addition, according to statistics, there are more patients with candidiasis in the group of women prone to diabetes. Many women themselves diagnose themselves with thrush when discharge appears. However, discharge, itching and burning are not always a sign of candidiasis. Exactly the same symptoms of colpitis (inflammation of the vagina) are possible with gonorrhea, gardnerellosis (), genital herpes, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia and other infections. Thus, the discharge you see is not always caused by Candida fungi. Gynecologists understand thrush (candidiasis) as a STRICTLY defined disease caused by a fungus of the genus Candida. And pharmaceutical companies too. That is why all drugs in pharmacies only help against Candida fungi. This is the reason why these drugs often do not help in self-treatment of "thrush". And this is the reason why, when written complaints are disturbing, you need to go to a gynecologist for an examination and find out the pathogen, and not self-medicate.
Very often, with unusual discharge, a smear shows candida. But this does not give grounds to assert (neither the patient, nor, especially, the gynecologist) that the inflammatory process is only the result of uncontrolled growth of candida in the vagina. As you already know, Candida fungi are part of the vaginal microflora, and only some kind of shock can cause their rapid growth. The undivided dominance of fungi leads to a change in the environment in the vagina, which causes the notorious symptoms of thrush and inflammation. An imbalance in the vagina does not happen by itself!!! Often, this failure of the microflora may indicate the presence of another (other) infection in the genital tract of a woman, which "helps" the candida to grow actively. That's why "candidiasis" is a very good reason for a gynecologist to order a serious additional examination for you - in particular, tests for infections.
Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the world. Trichomoniasis is an inflammatory disease of the genitourinary system. Penetrating into the body, Trichomonas causes such manifestations of the inflammatory process as (inflammation of the vagina), (inflammation of the urethra) and (inflammation of the bladder). Most often, trichomonas exist in the body not alone, but in combination with other pathogenic microflora: gonococci, yeast fungi, viruses, chlamydia, mycoplasmas, etc. In this case, trichomoniasis occurs as a mixed protozoal-bacterial infection. It is believed that 10% are infected with trichomoniasis population of the world. According to WHO, trichomoniasis is registered annually in approximately 170 million people. The highest incidence rates of trichomoniasis, according to the observations of venereologists from different countries, occur in women of childbearing (reproductive) age: according to some reports, almost 20% of women are infected with trichomoniasis, and in some areas this percentage reaches 80.
However, such indicators may also be related to the fact that in women, as a rule, trichomoniasis occurs with severe symptoms, while in men, the symptoms of trichomoniasis are either completely absent or not so pronounced that the patient simply does not pay attention to it. .Of course, there are also a sufficient number of women with asymptomatic trichomoniasis, and men with a pronounced clinical picture of the disease. In a latent form, trichomoniasis can be present in the human body for many years, while the Trichomonas carrier does not notice any discomfort, but can infect his sexual partner. The same applies to an infection that has not been fully treated: at any time it can return again. It must also be borne in mind that the human body does not produce protective antibodies against Trichomonas, so that, even if trichomoniasis is completely cured, it is very easy to become infected with it again from an infected sexual partner.
Based on the characteristics of the course of the disease, there are several forms of trichomoniasis: fresh trichomoniasis chronic trichomoniasis trichomonas carriage Fresh is called trichomoniasis, which exists in the human body for no more than 2 months. Fresh trichomoniasis, in turn, includes an acute, subacute and torpid (that is, "sluggish") stage. In the acute form of trichomoniasis, women complain of the classic symptoms of the disease: profuse vaginal discharge, itching and burning in the vulva. In men, acute trichomoniasis most often affects the urethra, causing burning and pain during urination. In the absence of adequate treatment, after three to four weeks, the symptoms of trichomoniasis disappear, but this, of course, does not mean the recovery of the patient with trichomoniasis, but, on the contrary, the transition of the disease to a chronic form. Chronic trichomoniasis is called more than 2 months old. This form of trichomoniasis is characterized by a long course, with recurrent exacerbations. Various factors can provoke exacerbations, for example, general and gynecological diseases, hypothermia, or violations of the rules of sexual hygiene. In addition, in women, the symptoms of trichomoniasis may increase during menstruation. Finally, trichomonas carriage is such a course of infection in which trichomonads are found in the contents of the vagina, but the patient does not have any manifestations of trichomoniasis. With trichomonas carriers, trichomonas are transmitted from the carrier to healthy people during sexual intercourse, causing them to have typical symptoms of trichomoniasis. There is still no consensus among specialists about the danger or not of the danger of trichomoniasis. Some venereologists call trichomoniasis the most harmless sexually transmitted disease, while others talk about a direct connection between trichomoniasis and oncological and other dangerous diseases.
The general opinion can be considered that it is dangerous to underestimate the consequences of trichomoniasis: it has been proven that trichomoniasis can provoke the development of chronic forms of prostatitis and. In addition, complications of trichomoniasis can cause infertility, pathology of pregnancy and childbirth, infant mortality, inferiority of offspring. Mycoplasmosis is an acute or chronic infectious disease. Mycoplasmosis is caused by mycoplasmas - microorganisms that occupy an intermediate position between bacteria, fungi and viruses. There are 14 types of mycoplasmas in the human body. Only three are pathogenic - Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma genitalium, which are the causative agents of urinary tract infections, and - the causative agent of respiratory tract infections. Mycoplasmas are opportunistic pathogens. They can cause a number of diseases, but at the same time they are often detected in healthy people. Depending on the pathogen, mycoplasmosis can be genitourinary or respiratory.
Respiratory mycoplasmosis occurs, as a rule, in the form of acute respiratory infections or, in severe cases, pneumonia. Respiratory mycoplasmosis is transmitted by airborne droplets. The symptoms include fever, inflammation of the tonsils, runny nose, in the case of the transition of mycoplasma infection into there are all signs of pneumonia: chills, fever, symptoms of general intoxication of the body. Genitourinary mycoplasmosis is an infection of the genitourinary tract that is transmitted sexually or, less commonly, by household means. Mycoplasmas are detected in 60-90% of cases of inflammatory pathology of the genitourinary system. In addition, when analyzing healthy people for mycoplasmosis, mycoplasmas are found in 5-15% of cases. This suggests that quite often mycoplasmosis is asymptomatic, and does not manifest itself in any way until the human immune system is sufficiently resistant. However, under such circumstances as pregnancy, childbirth, abortion, hypothermia, stress, mycoplasmas are activated, and the disease becomes acute. The predominant form of urogenital mycoplasmosis is considered to be a chronic infection with an asymptomatic and slow course. Mycoplasmosis can provoke diseases such as prostatitis, urethritis, arthritis, sepsis, various pathologies of pregnancy and fetus, postpartum endometritis. Mycoplasmosis is widespread throughout the world. According to statistics, mycoplasmas are more common in women than in men: 20-50% of women in the world are carriers of mycoplasmosis. Most often, mycoplasmosis affects women who have had gynecological diseases, sexually transmitted infections, or lead a promiscuous lifestyle. In recent years, cases have become more frequent, which is partly due to the fact that during pregnancy a woman’s immunity is somewhat weakened and an infection enters the body through this “gap”. The second reason for the “increase” in the proportion of mycoplasmoses is modern diagnostic methods that make it possible to identify “hidden” infections that are not subject to simple diagnostic methods, such as a smear.
Mycoplasmosis for pregnant women- a very undesirable disease that can lead to miscarriage or missed pregnancy, as well as the development of endometritis - one of the most serious postpartum complications. Fortunately, mycoplasmosis, as a rule, is not transmitted to the unborn child - the fetus is reliably protected by the placenta. However, it is not uncommon for a child to become infected with mycoplasmosis during childbirth, when a newborn passes through an infected birth canal. It should be remembered that early diagnosis, timely treatment of mycoplasmosis, and its prevention will help to avoid all the negative consequences of this disease in the future.
Chlamydia - a new plague of the XXI century
Chlamydia is gradually becoming the new plague of the 21st century, winning this title from other STDs. According to the World Health Organization, the rate of spread of this infection is like an avalanche. Numerous authoritative studies unequivocally indicate that chlamydia is currently the most common disease among diseases transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Modern high-precision laboratory diagnostic methods detect chlamydia in every SECOND woman with inflammatory diseases of the urogenital area, in 2/3 of women suffering from infertility, in 9 out of 10 women suffering from miscarriage. In men, every second urethritis is caused by chlamydia. Chlamydia could win back the title of affectionate killer from hepatitis, but very rarely die from chlamydia. Have you already breathed a sigh of relief? In vain. Chlamydia causes the widest range of various diseases. Once in the body, it is often not content with one organ, gradually spreading throughout the body.
To date, chlamydia is associated not only with diseases of the genitourinary organs, but also with eyes, joints, respiratory lesions, and a number of other manifestations. Chlamydia simply, affectionately and gently, imperceptibly makes a person old, sick, barren, blind, lame ... And early deprives men of sexual strength and children. Forever. Chlamydial infection threatens the health of not only adults, but also children, newborns and unborn babies. In children, chlamydia causes a whole bunch of chronic diseases, making them weak. Chlamydia they cause even inflammatory diseases of the genital area. Newborns, due to chlamydia, suffer from conjunctivitis, pneumonia, diseases of the nose and pharynx ... The baby can get all these diseases even in the womb from an infected mother, or may not be born at all - chlamydia often provokes a miscarriage at different stages of pregnancy. The frequency of infection with chlamydia according to various sources fluctuates. But the results are disappointing.
Extensive studies show that only young people infected with chlamydia, at least 30 percent. Chlamydia affects 30 to 60% of women and at least 51% of men. And the number of infected is constantly growing. If a mother has chlamydia, the risk of infecting her child with chlamydia during childbirth is at least 50%. But the most amazing thing is that you, being infected, suffering from these diseases, you may NOT KNOW AT ALL about the disease. This is a hallmark of all chlamydia. Often there are no symptoms of chlamydia. Chlamydia occurs very "softly", "gently", while causing destruction to your body, comparable to the consequences of a tornado. So, basically, patients with chlamydia feel only that something is “wrong” in the body. Physicians call these sensations "subjective". Discharge can be “not like that”: men often have the “first drop” syndrome in the morning, women have incomprehensible or simply abundant discharge. Then everything can go away, or you, having got used to it, begin to consider this state of affairs as the norm. Meanwhile, in both men and women, the infection moves “deep” into the genitals, affecting the prostate, testicles in men and the cervix, fallopian tubes in women. The most amazing thing is that it doesn't hurt anywhere! Or it hurts, but very modestly - it pulls, some kind of discomfort appears. AND NOTHING MORE! And chlamydias are doing underground work, causing such an extensive list of diseases, one listing of which would take at least a page of text! Reference:
Our elders from the Ministry of Health have not yet introduced the diagnosis of chlamydia into the compulsory health insurance system. In your clinic, you will never be tested for chlamydia, and for free. In state outpatient and inpatient institutions, such diseases of an infectious nature are simply referred to as diseases of an unknown cause. Therefore, until now, for taking care of your health, the health of your loved ones and children, you have to pay not to the state, but to you and me - the most conscious citizens. The only way to know if you are sick is to conduct a quality diagnosis.
Many women who are sexually active take care of the aesthetic appearance of the groin area. To be attractive in this intimate zone, they resort to various methods of depilation, intimate haircuts, piercings and tattoos. However, in some cases, all these tricks become insufficient, since there are certain problems in the anatomical structure of the external genital organs. Women who have labia of different sizes are often seriously complex about this. They are embarrassed to wear a bathing suit during the beach season, or even tight shorts or trousers, and during sex they often experience stiffness and embarrassment. Asymmetry of the labia is a fairly common reason for seeking qualified help from plastic surgeons.
Causes of asymmetry of the labia
Most often, the asymmetry of the labia is congenital. The degree of its severity can be different, and if different labia do not interfere with the normal life of a woman, then this is not considered a pathological condition, but refers to the individual features of the anatomical structure of the external genital organs. Traumatization can also lead to a change in the size of one of the labia. Women injure the external genitalia during childbirth, during sex, during falls, and so on.
Labia piercing is one of the reasons why women have different labia. Also at risk are women suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases of the vulva. Sometimes asymmetry can appear after a sharp weight loss.
Unpleasant consequences of the asymmetry of the labia
If a woman has small or large labia of different sizes, then in most cases this does not affect her ability to have an active sex life, conceive and bear a child. However, in some cases, asymmetry causes a number of inconveniences:
- The occurrence of rubbing in the groin area: due to the different size of the labia, it is very difficult to choose the right underwear for yourself. As a rule, tissue folds form in the area where there is one or less labia and there is free space. Friction causes constant discomfort, which affects the psychological state of a woman, and due to tissue trauma, there is a high risk of various infections;
- Discomfort during intercourse: in cases where the asymmetry is significant, this can lead to certain inconvenience during sex. And if the physical inconvenience can be very minor, then the psychological stress that a woman experiences when she is naked in front of a sexual partner significantly reduces the quality of her sexual life;
- Embarrassment when visiting a gynecologist and beautician: for many women who have asymmetry of the labia, going to the gynecologist or beautician for depilation is accompanied by unpleasant feelings of embarrassment and shame. And although qualified specialists will never allow themselves to comment on such a condition (except if it is associated with gynecological pathology), the woman still experiences psychological discomfort;
- Difficulties in sports: a certain form of clothing for gymnastics, dancing or aqua aerobics emphasizes the existing asymmetry of the labia in a woman, which can adversely affect her well-being during exercise;
The main complaint in women with asymmetric labia is dissatisfaction with their appearance. Most of the fair sex turn to plastic surgeons not because of physical discomfort, but in order to improve the appearance of intimate areas.
How to solve a delicate problem
Plastic surgeons deal with the problem of asymmetry of the labia. Surgery is an effective way to correct the shape and size of the small or large labia. Labiaplasty at the present stage is a common and fairly simple operation to perform. Most often, if the labia minora is of different sizes, then the woman decides to remove the excess tissue on one of the lips. For this, the following methods are used:
- classical linear plastic surgery of the labia minora;
- wedge-shaped plastic of the labia minora;
Performing classical linear plastic surgery, the surgeon excised excess tissue on the labia minora along its edge. After that, the wound surface is sutured with an intradermal suture. For the seam, only self-absorbable threads are used.
The method of wedge-shaped plasty consists in applying markings in the form of the Latin letter “V” to the labia, while its base should be directed to the enlarged part of the lip. Excess tissue is removed by excision and the lip is sutured with an intradermal suture.
If a woman is faced with the problem of an enlarged size of one of the labia majora, then the correction is carried out by removing excess fat from it. In cases where the labia majora, on the contrary, needs to be enlarged, lipofilling is used. The essence of this method is the introduction of the patient's own fat or biopolymer gel into the lip tissue.
Any type of surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. If during the operation there were no complications, then the woman returns home on the first day after the correction of the size of the labia.
Preparation for surgery
Despite the fact that it does not apply to long and complex operations, a woman, deciding on this procedure, must undergo a certain examination of the body. Before the operation you should:
- Visit a gynecologist and undergo a gynecological examination with a mandatory smear on the flora from the vagina;
- You also need to do PCR studies for major sexually transmitted infections. Even if at the time of the examination the woman has no complaints of itching, burning or discharge from the vagina, chronic, sluggish infections can be detected;
- Clinical blood test: to exclude anemia and signs of inflammatory reactions in the body;
- Clinical analysis of urine: to assess the function of the kidneys and the state of the organs of the urinary tract;
- Coagulogram: the most important study before any surgical intervention. The area of the external genital organs of a woman has a good blood supply, so you need to make sure that the blood coagulation system is in a normal state;
- Also, standard studies include analysis for hepatitis B, syphilis and HIV infection;
Contraindications for surgery
As with any surgical intervention, labiaplasty has a number of contraindications:
- Inflammatory diseases of the external and internal genital organs;
- The operation is not performed during menstrual bleeding;
- Pregnancy;
- Diseases of the blood system, manifested in the form of clotting disorders;
- Venereal diseases;
- Any pathological conditions of the body, accompanied by fever and severe intoxication;
- Diabetes;
It should also be borne in mind that plastic surgery is not performed on girls under the age of 18. Exceptions are cases when asymmetry leads to permanent trauma and inflammation of the perineal tissues.
Possible Complications
When deciding on an operation, every woman should remember that any violation of the integrity of the tissues of our body can lead to the development of various complications:
- Attachment of infection: during the operation on the labia, a wound surface is formed, into which, if the rules of asepsis and antisepsis are not followed, pathogenic microorganisms can penetrate. Therefore, when choosing a clinic and a specialist to whom you entrust the correction of your intimate areas, make sure that he is properly qualified and has all the conditions for the operation;
- The appearance of scars: if the sutures are applied poorly, then soft tissues can grow together unevenly and with the formation of a scar;
- Sensitivity disorders: the labia minora are classified as erogenous zones on a woman's body, so damage to them can lead to a decrease in sensitivity and a decrease in the intensity of pleasant sensations during sex;
- Opening of bleeding: this situation most often occurs in cases where a woman was not fully examined before the operation and did not reveal a pathology of the blood coagulation system;
In most cases, women are satisfied with the results of labiaplasty. Complete healing of the postoperative wound after 18-20 days. During this period, a woman should refrain from sexual intercourse.
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