Vulva

This section will contain terms referring to genitals in an educational context. There are also mild references to sexual activities, also in an educational context. Clicking on the external links at the bottom of this page may result in you seeing images of genitalia (either real photos or anatomical diagrams). Clicking on links found throughout the page itself will lead to other relevant parts of The Transgender Dictionary.

It is important to note that the anatomy of individuals varies from person to person. Below are different terms so you know what is what. Keep in mind that not everyone looks the same.

See also - penis.

Genitalia. Everyone has some variation of it (unless they undergo a nullification surgery). Generally, it is considered a personal topic. Something that you keep to yourself. However, when it comes to transgender people, the topic of genitalia is somehow brought up more often than not - whether or not its relevant. If you're a good ally, then you know not to ask.

This page will be discussing the anatomy of the vulva (and related parts/activities) and how this is relevant in terms of various transgender people. While this page will not be discussing the IGM done towards those who are CAFAB, it is important to note those experiences. Please see the page regarding intersexism page for more information. The rest of this particular page will be discussing perisex anatomy for simplicity's sake.

Very, very basically; the "vulva" refers to the genitalia traditionally associated with those who are female. When a doctor looks at an infant's external genitalia and observe what looks to be a vulva, this will typically result in said infant being AFAB. The vulva is a reproductive organ which serves a variety of functions such as sexual pleasure, menstruation, and urination.

Skin which surrounds and protects the clitoris.

Located at the top of the vulva (roughly between the labia majora and the labia minora), the clit is an extremely sensitive gland. When aroused, it will become encouraged with blood, causing it to appear enlarged and erect. The purpose of the clitoris is sexual pleasure.

A pair of folds of skin which protect the internal structures of the vulva. These folds vary in size, and are typically asymmetrical.

These are the larger folds of skin which protect the labia minora and other structures of the vulva.

These are the small folds of skin which protect the urethra and vaginal openings.

Present in both sexes, this soft, fleshy mound covers and cushions the pubic bone just above the genitalia (in this case, of course, the vulva). It typically becomes hairy after puberty.

The small hole from which urine is expelled. Located below the clitoris and above the vaginal opening. It is advised to urinate after having sexual intercourse to reduce the chance of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Sometimes, the vagina is used colloquially to refer to the entire anatomical region being discussed, but this is not accurate. The vagina is a stretchy, muscular tube that connects the external genitalia to the internal reproductive organ known as the uterus. The vagina is located between the bladder and the rectum. Typically, the vagina is slanted back towards the rectum.

While it is advised to gently wash the external vulva with warm water and mild soap on a regular basis, it is not advised to clean the interior of the vagina. Unless you are interested in disrupting the natural balance of your vagina's PH and potentially causing a yeast infection - do not douche or put any sort of cleaning products in there. If there is an unfamiliar smell or an oddly colored discharge - seek medical attention, NOT the beauty aisle.

Getting regular pelvic exams and pap smears is advised to keep the vagina healthy. Chaging out of wet/sweaty clothing, practicing safe sex, and doing pelvic floor exercises can all help keep your vagina healthy.

The vaginal opening is located below the urethra. From this hole comes a variety of things such as, menstrual blood, mucus discharge, and babies. This part of the vagina can be considered part of the vulva as it is external.

The interior walls of the vagina three layers with significant blood supply and nerve endings. The walls have features which aid sexual pleasure and lubrication.

The mucosal layer of the vaginal walls has ridges that aid with vaginal elasticity, and special cells that release fluids to keep the vagina moist and healthy. The ridges provide a home for vaginal flora (healthy bacteria and fungi that live inside of the vagina).

The muscular layer is made up of smooth muscle fibers that help expell discharge and cannot be independently controlled.

Made up of collagen and elastic tissue, the adventitia layer provides structual support to the vagina. This layer allows the vagina to stretch and expand during intercourse and childbirth.

The vagina is typically 3 to 4 inches deep in an unaroused state, stretching to 4 to 8 inches deep in an aroused state. Various factors such as age, genes, menopause, surgery, and pregnancy can affect the depth and width of the vagina.

This part of the vagina is wider than the opening and connects to the cervix. The cervix is the entrance of the uterus (also known as the womb).

This is the thin, stretchy skin which covers the area between the labia minora. It contains the holes known as the urethra and the vaginal opening. The vestibule is formed by small pieces of tissue leftover from fetal development.

These are things that are used to prevent pregnancy. If attempting to use more than one method of birth control, always check with your provider or the product's instructions to see what methods are and are not compatible. Always check the risks and side effects of any birth control method before you get it, and read everything on the package before you use it. This list is meant to give general information, not detailed medical advice. I am not, nor do have I ever claimed to be a medical professional of any kind. This is just my own research and knowledge.

Combining birth control with condom usage during penis in vagina (PIV) sex is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

The effects of reversible methods stop once they are removed/no longer in use.

A cervical cap is shaped like a sailor's hat and made out of silicone. A cervical cap covers the cervix and preventing sperm from passing through and reaching an egg. Cervical caps are most effective when combined with spermicide. Cervical caps must be used every time you have sex to be effective. Cervical caps are the most effective when used correctly.

Cervical caps are similar to diaphragms (below). They both require a perscription to be obtained. Cervical caps are smaller than diaphragms.U nlike a diaphragm, cervical caps can be left inside the vagina for up to 2 days.

Cervical caps are 86% effective at preventing pregnancy if you have never given birth. Cervical caps are 71% if you have previously given birth. Combine cervical caps with other methods of birth control for increased effectiveness.

A diaphragm is a soft, bendable, silicone barrier shaped like a shallow cup. It is bent in half and placed inside the vagina to act as a barrier and cover the cervix during sex to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. For increased effectiveness, fill the bowl of the diaphragm with spermicide prior to insertion.

Diaphragms can be obtained via perscription. If you take care of your diaphragm (washing it with mild soap and warm water, storing it in a clean/dry place away from extreme heat and direct sunlight) it can last up to 2 years.

Diaphragms are considered 83% (88% when also using spermicide) effective at preventing pregnancy, though if they are used perfectly every single time, they are considered 94% effective. Always make sure to check the instructions on the package before using a diaphragm.

Also known as "the rhythm method" and "natural family planning," FAMs are ways to track your menstrual cycle to prevent pregnancy. These methods are used to determine when you will ovulate (release an egg) so that you can plan around which days to have sex, not have sex, or use another method of birth control to prevent pregnancy.

FAMs are 77%–98% effective. Even if done perfectly, there is always a chance of pregnancy. FAMs are most effective when working with a nurse, doctor, or counselor; when you have the time and discipline to check your fertility signs and chart your cycle; and when you and your partner don't mind either avoiding sex or using another method of birth control on "unsafe" days.

Do not use FAMs as a form of birth control until after effectively tracking at least one menstrual cycle. If you plan on using any of these FAMs, do additional research.

The calendar method works like this, mark the first day of your period. Mark the first day of your next period. Count the number of days in between. Repeat. The more times you do this, the more effective.

To predict the first fertile day (when you can get pregnant) of your current cycle, find the shortest cycle in your past record. Subtract 18 from the total number of days in that cycle. Count that number from day 1 of your current cycle, and mark that day with an X. (Include day 1 when you count.) The day marked X is your first fertile day.

To predict the last fertile day in your current cycle, find the longest cycle in your past record. Subtract 11 from the total number of days in that cycle. Count that number from day 1 (the first day of your period) of your current cycle, and mark that day with an X. (Include day 1 when you count.) The day marked X is your last fertile day.

Before you can use this method, you must track your cycle for at least 6 full cycles. If all of your cycles are shorter than 27 days, then this method won't be effective.

The calendar method is most effective when combined with other FAMs. Alone, the calendar method can be used to tell you what are likely to be your safe and unsafe days. It cannot tell you for sure when you will be fertile.

Most effective when done with the help of a medical professional, the cervical mucus method consists of tracking cervical mucus (vaginal discharge) on a daily basis.

You can check your cervical mucus in the following ways. Looking at the color/texture of discharge in your underwear. Putting clean fingers into your vagina, then looking at the color/texture of the mucus on your fingers. Wipe the opening of the vagina (before peeing) with white toilet paper/tissue, and check the color/texture of the mucus.

During your period, the mucus will be obscured by period blood. These are "unsafe" days to have unprotected sex.

Directly after your period, there are typically 3-4 days without mucus/discharge. Known as "dry days" these may be "safe" days if your cycle is long.

Before ovulation, the body produces more mucus as an egg starts to ripen. For these 3-5 days, the mucus may look yellow, white, or cloudy, and feel sticky or tacky. These days are less safe.

Right before and during ovulation is when there is usually the most mucus. The mucus will be similar to raw egg whites, transparent and slippery. These are days where you are most likely to get pregnant.

After ovulation, you may suddenly have less mucus, and it may get cloudy/sticky again until it goes away and you have more dry days. Lasting for about 11-14 days, these cloudy, sticky, and dry days are all safe days.

Then your period starts and the cycle repeats.

Certain things can cause changes to your mucus, making this method difficult, such as; vaginal sex, using lube, using certain medications, breastfeeding, surgery on your cervix, douching, early menopause, using any kind of hormonal birth control, sexually transmitted infections, and vaginitis.

Also called the ovulation method or the Billings method, this method is most effective when combined with the temperature method (below). Combining the cervical mucus method with the temperature method is known as the symptothermal method.

You can only use the standard days method if your cycle is incredibly regular. This means that your cycle always comes at the same time, is never longer than 32 days, is never shorter than 26 days, and you are ok with not having vaginal sex nor using birth control from day 8 through day 19 of each cycle.

That's it. Don't have sex from day 8 through day 19 of your cycle. You can use an app, CycleBeads, or simply a notepad to keep track of your cycle.

A recent pregnancy, breastfeeding, and any kind of hormonal birth control can interfere with your cycle.

This method involves tracking your body temperature daily to predict ovulation. After ovulation, your body temperature goes up about four-tenths of one degree higher than your usual temperature. In order to accurately track your temperature, you have to check your temperature the moment you wake up, and before you do anything. Keep the thermometer in place for about 5 minutes. The changes in your temperature will be very minimal, so it is best to use a basal thermometer. Rectal thermometers are usually more accurate and reliable.

Various things can affect your daily temperature (such as smoking, drinking alcohol, jet lag, being sick or stressed, and using an electric blanket) so be sure to mark those down wherever you are charting your daily temperature. Safe days (to have unprotected sex) begin after the increase in your temperature lasts for at least 3 days, and end when your temperature drops just before your next period begins. On unsafe/fertile days, use another method of birth control.

Also known as the basal temperature method.

The birth control implant is a tiny, thin plastic rod (around the size of a matchstick). After being implanted into a patient's arm by a doctor or nurse, it can stay there for up to 5 years and is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

This implant releases the hormone progestin into the body. Progestin thickens the mucus on the cervix, preventing sperm from reaching an egg. Progestin also prevents ovulation (eggs leaving the ovaries).

This is an example of a reversible, low maintenance method of birth control. This method of birth control does not prevent the transmission of STDs.

Nexplanon is 1.6 inches long (4cm).

Internal condoms go inside the anus or vagina during penetrative sex. They prevent sperm from reaching an egg in the case of vaginal sex (aka. preventing pregnancy), and prevent sexually transmitted diseases in the cases of both vaginal and anal sex. Internal condoms come in one size and line the inner walls of the vagina or anus, allowing for the insertion and movement of a penis, sex toy(s), or fingers.

Internal condoms have an outer ring made out of nitrile, and an inner ring made out of polyurethane. Both the inside and outside of the internal condom are coated with at silicone-based lubricant.

Note: Sometimes referred to as a "female condom" though can be used by anyone, regardless of gender, for vaginal or anal sex. This is an alternative to a regular condom.

An IUD is a small t-shaped device that is placed inside the uterus by a doctor. This is an example of a reversible and low maintenance method of birth control. This method of birth control does not prevent the transmission of STDs. IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, however they can be highly painful when inserted. The length of time an IUD can be used varies, but any IUD can be removed by a doctor at any time. IUDs are considered 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. The 5 most common IUDs are listed as follows.

The Kyleena IUD is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy for each year of use, and 98.6% effective over 5 years. The Kyleena is made out of plastic, is 1.18inches (2.9972cm) in length, and contains 19.5mg of levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, which causes thinning of the uterine lining, thickening of cervical mucus, and inhibiting sperm movement. The hormone is released slowly over the course of 5 years.

Menstural bleeding may increase or become irregular during the first 3-6 months. Some people will have their menstural cycle stop completely.

The Liletta IUD The Liletta is made out of plastic and contains 52mg of levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, which causes thinning of the uterine lining, thickening of cervical mucus, and inhibiting sperm movement. The hormone is released slowly over the course of 8 years.

The Mirena IUD is over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy for up to 8 years. Most people will see a reduction menstural bleeding by 6 months. 2 out of 10 people will have their menstural cycle stop after a year. The Mirena is made out of plastic, is 1.26inches (3.2004cm) in length, and contains 53mg of levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, which causes thinning of the uterine lining, thickening of cervical mucus, and inhibiting sperm movement. The hormone is released slowly over the course of 8 years.

(Author's Note: In October of 2024 (around 2 months postpartum), I had the Mirena IUD placed while under general anesthesia. The Mirena was presented to me as the best possible birth control. The doctor who suggested it stated that she recommends this IUD for all of her transmasculine patients. I was given oxycodone to manage the pain. The oxycodone did not reduce the pain of the IUD. Not even slightly. The pain from the IUD started from the moment I woke up from the anesthesia, and did not stop until I had the IUD removed 2 weeks later. Allegedly, the majority of people who get an IUD forget that it is there. I have no idea how it is possible to "forget" that a small plastic rod is constantly poking and digging into your insides and shifting around with every step that you take, and any time you have anything pressed against your abdomen, but many women claim that they are unable to feel this. Personally, I trust the receptionist at the OBGYN who told me that most people have those things removed after a week. Genuinely, it is a miracle that I even lasted 2 weeks.)

The Paragard IUD is over 99% effective for up to 10 years. Paragard is made out of copper and plastic. Paragard prevents the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg and may also prevent implantation. Paragard is 1.26inches (3.2004cm) in width and 1.42inches (3.6068cm) in height.

The Skyla IUD is over 99% effective for up to 3 years. The Skyla is made out of plastic, is 1.18inches (2.9972cm) in length, and contains 13.5 mg of levonorgestrel, a type of progestin, which causes thinning of the uterine lining, thickening of cervical mucus, and inhibiting sperm movement. The hormone is released slowly over the course of 3 years.

Birth control patches are 93% effective when used correctly - aka when you remember to replace them on time and don't forget to refill your perscription. Setting up reminders, or having another person help remind you about your birth control patch can help you utilize patches to their full effectiveness. Unopened birth control patches are kept at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and somewhere you won't lose them.

Birth control patches can be worn on the belly, butt, or back. Do not place your patch somewhere where it will be rubbing against clothing, and make sure that it is still attatched properly every so often. They will not work properly if not attached to the skin correctly. Make sure that the area you are going to put the patch is clean and dry. Birth control patches deliver estrogen and progestin into the body through the skin. Do not place the patch in an area of the skin that has lotion, oils, creams, powder, or makeup.

Birth control patches are worn and replaced weekly for 3 weeks. Check the patch daily to make sure that it is attatched correctly. Move the location of the patch every time you change it. During the 4th week, a patch is not worn. You will likely have a period during this 4th week.

Birth control patches do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Birth control patches are reversible as their effects stop when they are not being worn or run out of medication.

Birth control patches should not be used if you smoke cigarettes and are over 35 years of age.

Xulane can be placed on the upper arm as well as the abdomen, buttock, and back.

Xulane contains ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin (a type of progestin). The patch is a 1.5inch by 1.5inch square. Each patch contains 4.86mg norelgestromin and 0.53mg ethinyl estradiol.

This weekly prescription birth control patch is not as effective in women weighing more than 198 lbs (90kg). It is 99% effective when used correctly.

Twirla is a circular birth control patch that contains 120 mcg/day levonorgestrel (LNG) and 30 mcg/day ethinyl estradiol (EE).

Do not use twirla if your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30 kg/m2 or more.

Twirla is 95% effective.

Birth control pills are a type of hormonal medication that is administered orally and taken daily at the same time every day. It is recommended to set an alarm so that you remember to take your birth control pill at the same time every day. You can also keep the pills somewhere you will remember to take them, or have someone else help you remember to take them.

Birth control pills typically require you to either not take them, or take a placebo pill for a week. During this week, you will likely have a period.

Birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Birth control pills are a reversible form of contraceptive as the effects will stop once you stop taking them.

Combination pills contain both estrogen and progestin. These are the most common type of birth control pill.

These pills do not have to be taken at the same time every day, but they should be taken daily to work properly. COCs come in 21-day, 28-day, and 91-day packs.

For a 21-day pill supply, 1 pill is taken daily for 21 days (3 weeks in a row). On week 4, no pills are taken as you undergo a period. Pregnancy will be prevented even if you have sex during the week where no pills are taken. Pills are resumed once the fourth week is up. It is recommended to set a reminder of some sort so that you restart the pills on time.

For a 28-day pill supply, 1 pill is taken daily for 28 days (4 weeks in a row). While the number of placebo pills can vary, most 28-day pill supplies will have 7 pills that do not contain the hormonal birth control that the rest of them do. These "reminder" pills may contain iron or other supplements, and are helpful for anyone who has trouble remembering to take a pill after not taking it for a week. You will likely have a period during the time you are taking these placebo pills. Pregnancy will be prevented even if you have sex during the week where you are taking the placebo pills, so long as you remember to get your refill in time.

For a 91-day pill supply, 1 hormonal pill is taken daily for 12 weeks (3 months), followed by 1 week of hormone-free reminder pills. Using this method, you will have a period once every 3 months. Pregnancy will be prevented even if you have sex during the week where you are taking the placebo pills, so long as you refill your prescription on time.

If you want to skip having a period altogether, seek out a brand that does not have a placebo week and/or start the next pack of pills at the time when you would have otherwise stopped taking them or started the placebos.

Also known as the mini pill, these contain only progestin. This type of birth control pill must be taken within 3 hours of the same designated time daily to work properly. Taking your daily mini pill at radically different times of the day can potentially result in pregnancy.

Mini pills come in 28-day (4 week) packs. There is no hormone-free week. You may have a period toward the end of the month, spotting throughout the month, or no period at all.

This method of birth control is considered to be 93% effective, providing that you always use it correctly. Always remember to refill this perscription and put your ring in on time to avoid pregnancy.

This method of birth control does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Do not use any type of lube other than water-based while using a birth control ring.

Birth control rings should not be used if you smoke cigarettes and are over 35 years of age. Birth control rings are reversible as their effects stop when they are removed or run out of medication.

An annovera ring can last for up to one year (or 13 menstrual cycles). The ring is placed as far as possible into the vagina for 21 days, removed for 7 days, washed with warm water and soap, patted dry with a clean paper towel or cloth, then reinserted.

Keep the ring stored in a safe place in its case and away from children, extreme temperatures, or pets. Do not place it in the refrigerator.

This perscription hormonal birth control ring releases 0.013 mg/day of ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg/day of segesterone acetate (a type of progestin). The ring itself is made out of silicone.

Annovera is a 97.3% effective at preventing pregnancy. It does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

The NuvaRing is inserted deep into the vagina, and stays up there for 3 weeks. The ring must be removed for 7 days, then a new ring inserted at the same day/time that the last one was removed. Keep rings not actively being used at room temperature and away from direct sunlight for 4 months (16 weeks). Keep any NuvaRings that you won’t use within 4 months in the refrigerator.

The NuvaRing contains 11.7 mg of etonogestrel and releases it into the body at an average of 0.12 mg/day.

The NuvaRing contains 2.7 mg of ethinyl estradiol and releases it into the body at an average of 0.015 mg/day.

The NuvaRing is made of ethylene vinylacetate copolymers and magnesium stearate.

This hormonal birth control method has been shown to be 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed. The NuvaRing does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Also known as "the depo shot" or "DMPA" this method of birth control consists of getting an injection of progestin every 3 months. It is most effective when done on time - every 3 months, 4x a year. Typically these injections are done by a doctor, but it is possible to get the perscription and do it yourself.

This method is reversible, as the effects will stop once you stop getting the injections. This method of birth control does not prevent the transmission of STDs.

Spermicide is a chemical that is put deep inside the vagina prior to having sex. Spermicide prevents pregnancy by both blocking the entrance to the cervix (so that a sperm cannot reach an egg) and by stopping sperm from moving well enough to reach an egg. Spermicide does not cause damage to condoms.

Spermicide comes in various forms such as creams, gels, film, foams, and suppositories (soft inserts that melt into a cream inside the vagina). If you experience pain while using spermicide, try a different brand, or a different method of birth control entirely. Spermicide is most effective at preventing pregnancy when combined with other methods of birth control. Spermicide can be messy and ooze out of the vagina. Nonoxynol-9 (a chemical found in spermicide) can sometimes irritate sensitive genital tissues.

Spermicide is 79% effective at preventing pregnancy, and must be used every time you have sex to work. Spermicide does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

The birth control sponge is a small, round sponge made out of soft, squishy plastic. The birth control sponge contains spermicide, and has a fabric loop for easy removal after sex. This sponge is placed inside the vagina (up against the cervix) before sex, and is used to prevent pregnancy.

The birth control is 91% effective if used correctly every time you have sex if you have never given birth (80% effective if you have previously given birth). When used imperfectly, sponges are 86% effective if you have never given birth (78% effective if you have previously given birth). Birth control sponges do not prevent sexually transmitted diseases (if anything, they may actually increase the risk of STDs as the spermicide inside the sponge contains a chemical called Nonoxynol-9 that can irritate the vagina and make it easier for germs to enter the body). As mentioned previously, combining any form of birth control with condom use is the best way to avoid contracting a sexually transmitted disease.

Also known as "getting your tubes tied" or tubal ligation, sterilization is a safe and effective surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy. This method of birth control is not advised for anyone who feels pressured into having it done.

A surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes are removed entirely.

A tiny coil is placed in the fallopian tubes to block them.

A surgical procedure that permanently closes, cuts, or removes pieces of the fallopian tubes.

Transgender men are men who were born with vulvas. This is something that will typically result in gender dysphoria. This is because having a vulva is not something that is traditionally associated with being a man. For many people, the idea of a man posessing a vulva is "wrong" or confusing. Its something that some people cannot quite wrap their head around. It can seem "wrong" to some. This "wrongness" is not unique to the outside observer. The vulva is an indicator of femininity that can make a trans man feel inadequate - like they aren't quite right.

Many transgender men will seek out surgeries to remove or reshape their vulvas to become more traditionally masculine. Most surgeons will require that the patient spends a certain length of time on testosterone; typically for optimal results though in some places this is a legal requirement. Some transgender men are unbothered with their anatomy and/or do not wish to undergo surgery, but still undergo HRT. When a transmasculine individual goes on testosterone, this can cause various genital changes. Quite often, these are some of the first reported changes caused by HRT.

One of said changes is enlargement of the clitoris, commonly referred to as "bottom growth." Size of bottom growth varies from person to person. Factors such as how big it will get, the appearance, and when it will stop growing will vary from person to person. Some transmasculine individuals report that it can get up to or even surpass 2 inches in length. Visually, bottom growth typically causes the clitoris to resemble a micropenis.

A few people report bottom grown being painful, due to the clitoris becoming more sensitive to chafing against clothing. Switching from traditionally feminine underwear to traditionally masculine underwear can help manage this issue. Some people use barriers such as aloe vera gel or baby powder to help with chafing.

Bottom growth is often (but not always) a prerequisite for surgeries such as phalloplasty and metoidioplasty, as it will give the surgeon more to work with.

It is possible to enhance bottom growth through the use of pumping devices. Sometimes surgeons will recommend it prior to surgery.

Some people will talk to their endocrinologist to get a specialized cream to enhance bottom growth. Some people who take their HRT in gel form may think about putting it on their genitals to do this. As t-gel is alcohol based and has the consistency of hand sanitizer, this is a bad idea. Not only will it not work, but it will cause an extremely uncomfortable burning sensation.

While everyone should be cleaning their genitalia on a regular basis to maintain their personal hygiene, the enlargement of the clit can affect this routine for transgender men who are not quite used to the change. The area between the clitoris and the clitoral hood needs to be cleaned, but the sensitivity can cause it to be painful to touch when dry, which can sometimes discourage proper hygiene. I recommend making sure that the area is wet (with warm water) and possibly using a q-tip to reach the area for cleaning (if necessary)

Taking HRT can also cause what is referred to as vaginal atrophy (referring to a dry vagina). The severity of this will vary from person to person, and will not necessarily happen. If/when it does happen, it can cause sexual intercourse to be painful.

It is important to note that atrophy can happen to people regardless of if they are on HRT or not. This can happen to anyone, cis or trans, due to various reasons.

Some individuals will talk to an endocrinologist to get a specialized hormonal medication to help with this issue (typically in the form of a topical cream). Plenty of others will simply use lube. (Note - Regardless of who you are and what you are doing, improper lubricant during penetration can result in tearing, pain, and potentially future health complications. There is no shame in having to use it. Just have fun.)

Transgender women are women who were born without vulvas. Typically, this causes gender dysphoria, as lacking this can make a transgender woman feel as though something is missing, or wrong. Some women are unbothered by this. Others seek out surgeries such as labiaplasty, orchi, and/or vaginoplasty in an effort to obtain gender euphoria.

To many people, posession of a vulva is intrinsically linked to womanhood. Some would go as far as to define posessing one as being the very definition of being a woman. It is important to note that all transgender people have their own unique relationship with gender and their genitalia.

BUMC - Female Genital Anatomy
byjus - Vestibule in the female reproductive system
Cleveland Clinic - Vagina
Cleveland Clinic - Vulva
Comfortable in My Own Skin - Flip Through My Flaps
Labia Library
Large Labia Project
Mayo Clinic - Vulva: Location, Anatomy, Function, Conditions, and Care
planned parenthood - female sexual anatomy
The Great Wall of Vulva
The Guardian: Laura Dodsworth: 02/09/2019: Me and my vulva: 100 women reveal all
The Vulva Gallery
Very Well Health: Mark Gurarie: 10/06/2024: Vulva Anatomy: External Female Genitalia
Wikipedia - Clitoral Hood
Wikipedia - Clitoris
Wikipedia - Erogenous Zone - Female
Wikipedia - Femalia
Wikipedia - Labia Majora
Wikipedia - Labia Minora
Wikipedia - Uterus
Wikipedia - Vagina
Wikipedia - Vulva

American Pregnancy Association: Natural Family Planning: Fertility Awareness Method
Annovera
CDC: 11/19/2024: Appendix F: Classifications for Fertility Awareness-Based Methods
CDC: 08/06/2024: Contraception and Birth Control Methods
CycleBeads
Drugs: Carmen Pope, BPharm: 04/12/2023: Contraceptives
Drugs: 01/08/2025: NuvaRing
FC2 Condoms
FemCap
Kyleena
Liletta
Mayo Clinic: 01/24/2024: Tubal ligation
Mirena
Natural Womanhood: 10/13/2021: The Complete Guide to Fertility Awareness Methods
nexplanon
NIH - Contraception and Birth Control Resources
NuvaRing
paragard
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Cervical Cap
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Diaphragm
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Implants
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Internal Condoms
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - IUD
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Ring
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Shot
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Spermicide
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Sponge
Planned Parenthood - Birth Control - Sterilization
Skyla
Slynd
Twirla
Xulane
YouTube Playlist: Planned Parenthood: Birth Control Methods

Center for Reproductive Rights
Plan C Pills
Reproductive Freedom For All - Resources for Accessing Abortion Care
Repro Legal Helpline

Contemporary Obgyn: Halley Crissman, MD, MPH Daphna Stroumsa, MD, MPH, MSC: 08/05/2020: Gynecologic care considerations for transmasculine people
Folx Health: 03/01/2023: How to maximize bottom growth
Folx Health: 02/23/2022: Testosterone HRT and Front Hole Irritation 101: Vaginal Atrophy Symptoms and Treatment Options
New York Toy Collective - Trans Masc Pump
Reddit - r/GrowYourTDick
Reddit - r/Seahorse_Dads
Reddit - r/Transmascdicks
SFAF: Emily Land, MA: 07/23/2019: Q and A: Gynecologic and vaginal care for trans men
Trans Language Primer - Pumping

Female genital appearance: ‘normality’ unfolds - Lloyd, J., Crouch, N.S., Minto, C.L., Liao, L.-M. and Creighton, S.M. (2005), Female genital appearance: ‘normality’ unfolds. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 112: 643-646. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2004.00517.x
Karger - Comparison of Vaginal Shapes in Afro-American, Caucasian and Hispanic Women as Seen with Vinyl Polysiloxane Casting - Paula B. Pendergrass, Cornelia A. Reeves, Meyer W. Belovicz, Darron J. Molter, Janet H. White; Comparison of Vaginal Shapes in Afro-American, Caucasian and Hispanic Women as Seen with Vinyl Polysiloxane Casting. Gynecol Obstet Invest 1 July 2000; 50 (1): 54–59. https://doi.org/10.1159/000010281
Measurements of a ‘normal vulva’ in women aged 15–84: a cross-sectional prospective single-centre study - Kreklau A, Vâz I, Oehme F, Strub F, Brechbühl R, Christmann C, Günthert A. Measurements of a ‘normal vulva’ in women aged 15–84: a cross-sectional prospective single-centre study. BJOG 2018; 125: 1656–1661.
ProChoice.org
Reddit - r/GrowYourClit
The Guardian: Zoe Williams: 09/13/2021: Labia liberation! The movement to end vulva anxiety for good
Trans Language Primer - Sexually Transmitted Infection / Disease (STI / STD)
Well + Good: Kells McPhillips Rachel Kraus: 08/30/2023: How to Track Your Period
Vagina Museum
YouTube Video: Rachel Oates: 02/08/2021: A Very Brief History of the "Most Offensive" Word