Broadly speaking, you can group vulvas into seven different types — but in real life, no two vulvas are ever exactly alike, so really there are millions. Still, we’ll walk you through the seven most “recognisable” shapes. From the so-called perfect vulva to the hairy one, read on!
Pssst… we use the words “vulva” and “vagina” interchangeably in this article. Strictly speaking, the vulva is the external part of the female genitals and the vagina is the internal canal.
The 7 different types of vulva
1. The Barbie
When people picture a vulva, many imagine small inner labia tucked completely inside the outer labia. This is sometimes called the Barbie. The funny thing is that lots of people think this is how a vulva is “supposed” to look, when in reality most vulvas don’t look like this at all! The Barbie is actually pretty rare.
2. The Puffy
A close cousin of the Barbie, the puffy vulva sits a little lower on the pubic bone. The outer labia are full and plump, while the inner labia are entirely covered.
Did you know… the puffy vulva is one of the most common types?
3. Go Brazilian
More than 80% of women do something to manage their pubic hair. Many opt for a full Brazilian (everything off) or leave a tidy little strip. What you do with your pubic hair is, happily, completely up to you.
4. Jungle Time
The opposite of a full wax is a beautifully natural look. Choosing not to shave or trim at all means you skip a lot of hassle: no ingrown hairs, no irritated skin. The skin around the vulva is delicate, after all.
5. The Wide Tulip
The wide tulip vulva looks broad, with the inner labia possibly visible. When aroused, this vulva spreads sideways for easier access — a bit like a tulip opening up.
“The inner labia peek out gently.”
6. The Asymmetric Curtain
Inner labia that extend past the outer labia and look slightly uneven are affectionately known as “Miss Curtain”. Lots of women have this shape. Some feel a bit self-conscious about it, but there’s absolutely no need to be.
7. The Horseshoe
If the labia close at the bottom but open wider at the top, you’ve got a “Miss Horseshoe”. This shape isn’t seen as the so-called perfect vulva either, but news flash: there’s no such thing. Or, better put — every vulva is perfect in its own way.
Every vulva is (not) the perfect vulva.
Vulvas come in all shapes and sizes. Whatever yours looks like, it really doesn’t matter. What counts as a “beautiful” vulva is different for everyone. The most important thing? Enjoying yourself in the bedroom.
Which different types of vulva have you come across?