Know your normal: How to check your vulva

This intimate knowledge of 'your normal' plays an essential role in maintaining good health and spotting potential issues. If you've not had a peep at your 'undercarriage' with a handheld mirror, well, now's your time to shine.

If you've never had a gander 'down there', this might be a little odd at first - and don't worry, you aren't alone if this is your first look. But knowing what your vulva typically looks like will help if you ever notice anything looking a little unusual down the line.

What is really important is destigmatising the idea that checking our vulva is 'weird'. After all, most of us know the importance of checking our boobs regularly - and in the exact same way that self care that could save your life, so is this similar check. But where do you start?

Is this a two-person job?

It's totally up to you whether you do this check alone, or with a partner. After all, they're often the ones who notice something unusual and suggest, 'Hey, this doesn't look or feel quite right, perhaps you should get it checked?'. Not the words we want to hear in an intimate moment, granted - but in a moment where you are both noticing and looking for important changes, it could give you confidence and security that you are both supporting each others health.

Embracing The ‘Uncomfortable’

For many women, intimate checks are a taboo and may not have been encouraged as you grew up. But here's the thing: it’s your body, and there's nothing to be embarrassed or anxious about. It’s all part and parcel of looking after our health. If you think about it, it’s no different than checking your skin for new moles or your breasts for lumps. And what's important to remember is that we all have different and unique vulvas - everyone is different, and the only important thing to consider here is what is normal for you.

🦪 The How-To of Checking Your Vulva

A comprehensive visual check starts with good hygiene. Wash your hands, then get comfy on your bed or the floor, perhaps with a few cushions for support. A decent source of light is crucial - a desk lamp would do just the trick. Now, grab a handheld mirror and tilt your pelvis up so you can see your vulva clearly. Following these steps, feel each part of your vulva, gently parting the labia lips to see the vaginal entrance.

Make a mental note of what 'normal' looks like for you: the texture, the colour, any usual discharge, and how it feels. Check for anything out of the ordinary, such as lumps, sores, irritation, and rashes. You might even want to keep a diary of your self-checks to monitor changes over time. And remember, don't ignore anything unusual. Report it to your GP straight away and ask for a smear test, if necessary.

Understanding why we need to do regular vulva self-checks is a pivotal part of the conversation. Regular self-checks can help in the early detection of various conditions, from minor irritations to more severe illnesses.

Why is this important to do?

The simple fact is that we don't know something is wrong often until it's too late. By checking ourselves regularly, and ensuring that we know when something doesn't look, smell, or feel different, the sooner we can access the right help. It's worth remembering that in the majority of cases, there's nothing to worry about.

Member of the Jude and Friends Community, Steph, shared with us her experience and why she's so passionate about women having the confidence to check their vulvas.

"When my mum had vulval cancer we hadn't even heard of it - I wouldn't want anyone to experience what she did. It's so important that women and girls know to check their vulvas. I was diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosis and I now check myself regularly in case of cancerous changes".

Steph also encourages her daughters to check their bodies regularly for any abnormalities. "They go 'eurgh!' when I tell them to use their phone, but it's so easy to use if you can't get to grips with the whole mirror set up. Most phones have a secure folder so you can keep the pictures and refer to them incase of changes - and that way you have something to show the doctor too."

What if I find something unusual?

There can be a lots of different explanations for unusual lumps and bumps, and even changes in discharge - but here's the most common conditions to bear in mind and speak to your GP about if you find related symptoms.

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a condition characterised by chronic pain in the vulva area, which may manifest as a burning sensation, soreness, stinging or rawness. Often, the cause of vulvodynia is unknown, making it all the more important to report any persistent discomfort to your GP.

Lichen Sclerosus

Another condition that can be picked up through regular checks is Lichen Sclerosus. This condition results in patchy, white skin that's thinner than usual. It can cause discomfort, itching, tearing, and even pain during sex. Observing changes in your vulva's skin tone is crucial to identifying this condition early on.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

STDs such as genital warts, herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea, can be identified early through routine checks. Symptoms may include lumps, sores, unusual discharge, or irritation. Regular checks can help spot these symptoms and encourage timely treatment, preventing potential complications and transmission.

Vulval Cancer

Although it's rare, regular self-checks can also help detect vulval cancer early on. Symptoms to watch out for include persistent itching, pain or soreness, thickened, raised, red, white or dark patches on the skin, or a lump or swelling in the vulva.

Vulval Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN)

Changes in the colour of your vulva can be an early sign of Vulval Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN), a pre-cancerous condition that can lead to vulval cancer if left untreated.

Be Alert for Changes

Any change, be it in skin tone, colour, the consistency, smell, or amount of discharge, or the appearance of lumps and sores, can potentially indicate a health issue. If you notice any of these changes, don't hesitate to consult with your GP. Remember, it's better to err on the side of caution.