How confident are you in your vagina? It's a question rarely asked, yet vital. Surveys reveal many women view their vaginas negatively or find the topic taboo. Renowned Belgian sexologist Goedele Liekens predicts this mindset is shifting—and we agree. Let's openly discuss vaginas and labia to foster body positivity.
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In typical men's conversations, penises often take center stage—a flesh-toned thread, so to speak. Men generally discuss their genitals more openly than women. As Goedele Liekens notes, 'the penis only comes in three sizes: big, huge, and gigantic.' While some men lack confidence, most proudly embrace what they have.
Women, however, often stay silent. Mentioning the vagina triggers shame for many. Beyond reticence, numerous women feel their vaginas are unattractive, taking 'labia' literally as 'shame lips.'
Where does this negative self-image originate? Goedele Liekens points to comparisons, especially with pornographic ideals that distort normal anatomy and sex. This fuels insecurity, leading to 'designer vaginas'—labiaplasty surgeries to shrink and tighten labia. Common among young women at clinics like the one where eyelid corrections occur, these procedures chase unrealistic standards. Yet, is the penis inherently flawless? Personally, while my vagina isn't my favorite feature, shame or surgery feels extreme.
What's 'wrong' with the average vagina? Primarily, labia size—deemed too prominent by fashion ideals. In Uganda's Karamojong tribe, women stretch labia for appeal: bigger means better. Extremes aside, it's time for positivity. Goedele advises renaming genitals to reframe perceptions.
Names matter. Dutch uniquely prefixes labia with 'shame,' unlike 'pubic glans.' Goedele suggests 'proud lips.' What name would you choose? Vote for alternatives or share ideas to break taboos. Top suggestions could win a sex class or Goedele Liekens' new Vagina Book.
