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Parts of the Female Genitalia

This is Female Genitalia, Demystified 

It’s time to clear up the confusion.

Many people use the term ‘vagina’ to describe female sex organs. In reality, the vagina is just one part of the female genitalia. The terms ‘vagina’ and ‘vulva’ are often confused and used interchangeably, but they refer to two very different parts of the female anatomy. Vulva (a medical term) is the external part of female genitalia. The vulva has many tissues, each with different functions. They include the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, clitoral hood, and urethral opening. The vagina is the internal part of the female genitalia. Here, we’re going to delve further into our own bodies to understand the female genital anatomy – beginning with our external anatomy. 

Labia Majora 

The labia majora, also called the outer lips, are the folds of skin that enclose other parts of external sexual anatomy. The inner surface of labia majora is hairless. The labia majora contains the sebaceous gland, sweat glands, and hair follicles. The shape and size of these tissues can vary from one person to another. It’s common for the labia majora to be darker than the rest of your skin. 

Labia Minora

The labia minora are two thick folds of skin, also called the inner lips. The labia minora are located inside the labia majora, and their appearance can vary. In some people, they’re very small, and not so small for others. During sexual intercourse, these tissues swell and become more sensitive. The folds contain connective tissues, numerous sebaceous glands, erectile muscle fibres, and numerous vessels and nerve endings. Unlike the labia majora, the labia minora does not contain hair follicles.

Clitoris 

The clitoris is located at the top of the labia minora. The visible portion of the clitoris looks like a pea-sized nub, but it’s actually much larger. It has a spongy shaft that extends into the body that can’t be seen externally. With a lot of nerve endings, the clitoris is a very sensitive tissue. Unlike other vagina parts, its only purpose is in creating pleasure. 

Clitoral Hood

The clitoral hood is the small flap of skin at the point where the inner lips meet. The clitoral hood surrounds and protects the sensitive tip of the clitoris. Glands in the hood produce a lubricant that helps the tissue glide across the clitoris. 

Urethral Opening 

This is the external opening of the transport tube that leads from the bladder to discharge urine outside the body in a female. The urethra (the urinary transport tube) in a female is shorter than the urethra in a male. The meatus (opening) of the female urethra is below the clitoris and just above the opening of the vagina.

Vaginal Opening 

The vaginal opening, also called the vaginal vestibule or introitus, is the opening into the vagina. It’s located between the urethra and the anus. The opening is where menstrual blood leaves the body. It’s also used to birth a baby and for sexual intercourse.

Female Sexual Anatomy: Internal Organs

The key organs for female reproduction are protectively located deep within the body. These include the following:

Ovaries

A female normally has a pair of ovaries that resemble almonds in size and shape. They are home to the female sex cells, called eggs, and they also produce estrogen or oestrogen (the female sex hormone). Women’s ovaries already contain several hundred thousand undeveloped eggs at birth, but the eggs are not called into action until puberty. Roughly once a month, starting at puberty and lasting until menopause, the ovaries release an egg into the fallopian tubes – this is called ovulation. When fertilisation does not occur, the egg leaves the body as part of the menstrual cycle.

Fallopian Tubes

The ovaries connect to the uterus via the fallopian tubes. Fertilisation usually happens within the fallopian tubes. Then, the fertilised egg makes its way down to the uterus.

Uterus

The uterus is located in the pelvis of a woman’s body and made up of smooth muscle tissue. Commonly referred to as the womb, the uterus is hollow and holds the foetus during pregnancy. Each month, the uterus develops a lining that is rich in nutrients. The reproductive purpose of this lining is to provide nourishment for a developing foetus. Since eggs aren’t usually fertilised, the lining leaves the body as menstrual blood during a woman’s monthly period.

Cervix

The lower part of the uterus, which connects to the vagina, is known as the cervix. Often called the neck or entrance to the womb, the cervix lets menstrual blood out and semen into the uterus. The cervix remains closed during pregnancy, but can expand dramatically during childbirth.

Vagina

The vagina has both internal and external parts, and connects the uterus to the outside of the body. Made up of muscle and skin, the vagina is a long hollow tube that is sometimes called the ‘birth canal’ because, if you are pregnant, the vagina is the pathway the baby will take when it’s ready to be born. The vagina also allows menstrual blood to leave a woman’s body during reproduction and is where the penis deposits semen during sexual intercourse.

Bartholin’s Glands/Greater Vestibular Glands

The bilateral racemes glands are located at the sides of the vaginal orifice. These glands secrete mucous that helps maintain the acidic pH balance of the vagina (pH 4.5 or lower) and acts as a lubricant during sexual intercourse. 

Parts of the Female Genitalia Explained

If you’d like to learn more about your body through a visual guide, I recommend The Great Wall of Vagina by Jamie McCartney. It’s a coffee table book that showcases hundreds of real women’s vulva casts. This intimate artistic exploration is supplemented with explanations by a sexual health advisor who aims to destigmatise and educate people on common misconceptions. 

Discover more about your body by following Dr. Amna Raees Khan, a specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, on Instagram.

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Top 10 Self-Care Tips for Busy Women

Feel better, today.

Whether you are a career woman or a hands-on homemaker, as a woman you will always have a lot on your plate. You keep overworking yourself to achieve ‘out of this world’ goals without even realising that you need a break once in a while. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget about taking care of yourself. We all know how challenging it can be to juggle work, family, and personal responsibilities. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget about taking care of ourselves. Self-care ends up coming last on your priorities when it really needs to be your top priority. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

If you’re one of those busy women who keep working round the clock be it at work or at home (or both), pause and ask yourself this, “When was the last time I took a break? When was the last time I felt like myself?”. Be honest with yourself and know that it’s okay if your answer ends up being, “Never.” Well, it’s not really okay for your long-term physical health, emotional well-being, and overall productivity, but it’s okay for you to be honest with yourself at this moment so you can become aware and start to do something about it. Remember, it’s never too late to make a change. And, today is as good as any day to make that change!

Making time for self-care doesn’t have to be a complex or expensive affair. It can be as simple as a ritual of deep and mindful breathwork or indulging in a long soak in the bath. We’ve curated a list of our favourite self-care activities and the things we love to indulge with and hope they inspire you too to do the same.

So, let’s dive into ten self-care tips every woman should follow to prioritise their well-being.

Get Enough Sleep

According to a UAE sleep survey, nearly 50% of respondents complained of not sleeping enough and waking in the middle of the night. Sleep is crucial for your mental and physical health and getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night is recommended to feel rested and refreshed the next day. Lack of sleep contributes to chronic stress which in turn can lead to a whole host of ailments such as heart disease, high blood pressure, weight gain, diabetes, and depression.

Sleep Essentials

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SAINE

Cosy Dreams Spelt Husk Pillow

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POPMASK

Sleepover Eye Mask

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Wear Healing Crystals

Healing Crystals are natural semi-precious gems formed deep in the heart of the earth and have unique energy frequencies based on their molecular structure. Their energies can help unblock and recharge our energy centres for us to be and work at an optimal level and bring positive changes to our lives. It’s a form of wearable self-care. For instance, Rose Quartz and Amethyst crystal bracelets can help promote self-love, tranquillity, and spiritual growth.

Crystal Essentials

MOTION TRADING

Rose Quartz Bracelet

AED 45.00

MOTION TRADING

Amethyst Bracelet

AED 46.00

Purify Your Skin

Self-care also includes taking care of your skin. Did you know that Himalayan Salt is packed with over 84 trace minerals that are naturally anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory? It’s also an amazing purifier for your bedroom or office. Many skin conditions like acne are actually caused by bacteria that live on our skin and contribute to the infection of pimples.

Salt Essentials

MOTION TRADING

Amber Salt Lamp

AED 140.00

MOTION TRADING

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AED 140.00

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful way to reduce stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and improve overall well-being. You can start with a simple practice of deep breathing or guided meditation, but if you’re looking for a more comprehensive tool, try The Keys To The Universe Cards. They offer guidance and action to accelerate your journey to awareness and enlightenment.

Mindfulness Essentials

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The Keys to The Universe Cards by Diana Cooper

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GAGGLER

Relaxation Meditation Kit

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Move Your Body

A lot of the time, when we think of self-care, we visualise things like sleeping in, taking a hot bath, finding “me” time in the day – basically, relaxing activities. Engaging in physical activity may not always be the first thing that comes to mind when we think of self-care but it is an excellent way to release endorphins and boost your mood. And, therefore working out or being active should definitely be on your self-care To-Do list. Movement is just another way to take care of your body and mind.

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Upgrade Your Nutrition

Eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is crucial to your overall health and well-being. Prioritise eating foods that fuel your body with vitamins, minerals, and energy. Add superfoods like leafy green vegetables, nuts, and berries to your meals. Also, adequate water and other fluids keep you hydrated and ensure your body has the hydration levels to run your body optimally.

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BEAUTY TREATS

The Energy Cookie

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MOTION TRADING

Aventurine Crystal Water Bottle

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NAMASTEA

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Connect with Nature

Spending time in nature can be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. A meta-analysis of over 140 studies published in Environmental Research, for instance, found that green space exposure was associated with lowered cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure—all signifying stress reduction—as well as reduced incidence of chronic health conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. So, take that walk in the park without thinking twice, go for a hike, or simply sit outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!

Practise Gratitude

Practising gratitude can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life and increase feelings of joy and contentment. Gratitude is not just something that you feel, it is something that can be expressed through actions, behaviours, and gestures. Your brain responds to this by releasing dopamine and serotonin, which can have a positive impact on your mood. Try writing down three things you’re grateful for each day or saying them out loud before bed.

Ask for Help

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or professionals for support when you need it. There are various support groups available in Dubai that focus on self-care and well-being. Here are some resources that can help you find a self-care support group that works for you:

Dubai Foundation for Women and Children: This organization provides support and resources for women and children who have experienced domestic violence or abuse. They offer counselling services, support groups, and workshops focused on self-care and empowerment.

The Light House Arabia: This mental health and wellness centre in Dubai offers various support groups and workshops focused on self-care, stress management, and mental health. They offer both in-person and online services.

Mind House: This online mental wellness platform offers various programs and support groups focused on self-care and mindfulness. They offer both group and individual sessions with trained professionals.

Meetup.com: This is a website that connects people with similar interests and hobbies, including self-care and wellness. You can search for local groups that focus on self-care, meditation, or other wellness practices.

When looking for a self-care support group, it’s important to consider what type of support you’re looking for, your schedule, and your preferences for in-person or online support. Don’t be afraid to try different groups until you find one that feels like the right fit for you.

So, there you have ten self-care tips every woman should follow to prioritise their well-being. Incorporating these can make a significant difference in your self-care routine. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary!

The Gaggler team is passionate about finding and sharing great products with our readers. We take pride in researching and testing products to find the best of the best, and we only recommend things that we love and think you will, too.

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