In human beings it consists of the labia majora and minora (large and small lips), clitoris, opening of the urethra, and the opening of the vagina.
The main functions involving the vulva are sexual behavior, urination, menstruation?, and childbirth?.
The soft mound at the front of the vulva is the mons veneris or "mount of Venus". After puberty? it is normally covered with pubic hair to a greater or lesser extent. The labia majora or large lips extend on either side of the vulva, and may also be covered with pubic hair. The labia majora entirely or partially hide the other parts of the vulva. The labia majora are two soft pink folds within the labia majora and to either side of the opening of the vagina. The clitoris is at the front of the vulva where the labia minora meet. The opening of the urethra is between the clitoris and vagina.
The appearance of the vulva and the size of the various parts varies a great deal from one woman to another, and it is common for the left and right sides to not "match" exactly in an individual woman.
Western cultures have commonly viewed the vulva as something shameful to be hidden, however in some other cultures it has been celebrated and even worshipped. In some Hindu sects the vulva is revered under the name yoni and texts seem to indicate a similar attitude in some ancient Middle Eastern religions.
See also Orgasm, Vulvovaginal disorders, Female genital mutilation, Clitoridectomy
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