The vulva is the external genitalia — the labia, clitoris and the openings between them. The vagina is the internal muscular canal connecting the vulva to the cervix. Vagina is very commonly used for the whole area, but anatomically it names only the internal passage.
The core difference
- vulva — everything external: the mons pubis, the labia majora and minora, the clitoris, and the vestibule containing the urethral and vaginal openings.
- vagina — the internal canal running from the vulva to the cervix.
External and internal is the whole distinction. What is visible is vulva; what is inside is vagina.
Why the confusion matters
Using vagina for the external anatomy is widespread, including in otherwise careful writing. It matters in two practical ways: describing symptoms accurately to a clinician, and teaching anatomy — research on health literacy has repeatedly found that imprecise vocabulary makes it harder for people to describe pain, changes or injury to a doctor.
The parts of the vulva
- labia majora and labia minora — the outer and inner folds
- clitoris — only the glans is externally visible; the larger structure extends internally
- vestibule — the area between the inner labia, containing the urethral and vaginal openings
- mons pubis — the tissue over the pubic bone
The words
Both are Latin. Vulva meant womb or covering. Vagina meant sheath or scabbard — a name given by anatomists describing the structure in relation to the penis rather than on its own terms, which is one reason some anatomists have argued for different terminology.
The related terms
- cervix — the lower part of the uterus, at the top of the vaginal canal
- uterus or womb — the organ above the cervix
- perineum — the area between the vulva and the anus
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the vulva and the vagina?
The vulva is the external genitalia — labia, clitoris and the vestibule. The vagina is the internal canal connecting the vulva to the cervix.
Is it wrong to say vagina for the whole area?
It is anatomically imprecise, though very common. The distinction matters for describing symptoms accurately to a clinician.
What does the word vagina mean literally?
Sheath or scabbard, in Latin — a name given in relation to the penis rather than describing the structure on its own terms.