The size, shape, and elasticity of the vagina differ significantly between women and this can lead many women to be confused about what can be considered normal. Discussions about the appearance of the female genitalia are often avoided and this can result in misinformation replacing actual facts in the wider topic of sex education.
It is a common misconception that regular sexual intercourse results in stretching of the vagina and eventually becoming loose. This is in combination with enlargement of the labia. This is simply incorrect. Sexual intercourse does not result in enlarged labia or the development of a loose vagina. Recognised causes of a loose vagina also known as vaginal laxity include vaginal childbirth and the natural ageing process as a result of declining levels of oestrogen. Although sex does not result in permanent changes to the size or structure of the labia, the labia do temporarily change in size during and immediately after sex.
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An increase in blood flow occurs to the female genitalia during sexual intercourse. This increase in blood flow may result in the labia becoming swollen and engorged as part of the sexual arousal process. The labia do not become elongated as is commonly thought. Increased vaginal secretions occur to facilitate lubrication with an associated relaxation of the pelvic musculature. This can give the impression that the vaginal canal is enlarged but the process causing this is related to the body’s natural response to sexual arousal. Once sexual arousal has subsided, the changes which occur in the female genitalia will return to the non-aroused state. In other words, the labia reduce in size as a result of diminished blood flow to the area. There are certain conditions which may result in the labia appearing different after sexual intercourse. Childbirth may result in weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and this can give rise to permanent loss of elasticity affecting both the labia and the vagina. Vaginal laxity can be treated with vaginal tightening surgery.
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The vagina can also be affected by other conditions including candida infection, sexually transmitted infections and allergic reactions but does not result in an elongated labia. The colour of the labia may be affected resulting in discolouration. Other associated symptoms may include itching, discomfort, swelling and a red appearance as a result of inflammation. Bartholin’s cyst may develop as a result of duct blockage and this can make the labia appear more swollen. The development of Bartholin’s cyst does not result in enlargement of the labia. The cysts can be easily removed with a straightforward surgical removal for permanent results.
Women want to feel comfortable about how they look especially when naked and excessively large labia also known as labial hypertrophy can affect self-confidence and emotional well-being. The size and shape of the labia differ significantly between women and there is a wide range of labial anatomy which can be considered normal. This means it can be difficult to identify what a typical labia looks like. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your labia minora or labia majora or would like to get rid of discomfort resulting from large labia, labiaplasty also known as labia reduction could be an appropriate treatment. There are two types of labia reduction surgery including labia minora reduction and labia majora reduction. Dr Dimitriadi is a specialist in cosmetic gynaecology and regularly performs labiaplasty surgery to improve the appearance of the labia which allows you to regain your self-confidence.
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Where can I get labiaplasty near me?
Labiaplasty is performed at our state-of-the-art clinic located on Baker Street in Marylebone. The clinic is conveniently located next to all the major public transport networks including Baker Street station.
If you would like to book a labiaplasty consultation, please get in touch with us today on 020 7993 4849 or fill out the contact form below.
