Perhaps it has happened to you that while washing or looking in the mirror, you realize that the edges of your vagina (labia) are a little bigger than you thought. It is natural to see this situation and ask questions: for example, "Does labia majora cause infection?" And «Is large labia normal? Or will it cause a problem for my health?”

In this article, we are going to check very easily and without complex terms, what is the connection between big labia and infection, what factors cause vaginal infection and how to prevent it.

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What are labia and Where is it?

Labia is actually the scientific name skin edges around the vagina. This part of the body is responsible for protecting the vagina, clitoris and urethral opening and at the same time, it also plays a role in sexual stimulation and pleasure. To put it simply, the labia act as "natural protectors of the vagina" so that dirt and bacteria do not easily enter the internal canal.

Their location is in the external genital area of women, and when we look at this part from the front, 2 pairs of edges can be seen, each of which has its own characteristics.

The important point is that the appearance and size of the labia are different in every woman; Just like the difference in skin color, body shape or face. So, if someone's labia are bigger, wrinkled or asymmetrical, it does not necessarily mean a disease or a problem.

Types of labia in women

In the following, we examine the types of vaginal labia:

1. Labia Majora: Labia majora or the outer edges of the vagina, is the meatier and usually larger part of the genital area. This part is usually covered with hair and gradually becomes more prominent during puberty. The main function of the labia major is to cover and protect the more sensitive internal parts (such as the clitoris, vaginal opening and labia minora).
2. Labia minora (Labia Minora): Labia minora is the inner and thinner edges located between the labia majora. The color of this part is usually darker than the surrounding skin, and in some women, it may protrude a little from the outer edge, which is completely normal and nothing to worry about. The labia minora is very sensitive and in sexual stimulation, it plays an important role in conveying the feeling of pleasure to you.

Large labia is not something unusual or alarming, and in most cases it is not a sign of illness at all.

In fact, the natural shape of the labia is different for every woman; This difference is completely natural and arises due to genetic reasons or natural body changes. However, sometimes the labia may become larger or more prominent than before, which has various reasons.

There are several common reasons for enlarged labia:

1. Genetics: Some women naturally have larger labia. This feature is with them from birth and is completely natural.

2. Hormonal changes: The cause of labia enlargement in girls is hormonal changes in the body during puberty. During menopause, for this reason, the size and texture of the labia may change.

3. Stimulation and friction: Wearing tight pants, sports such as cycling or frequent contact with underwear can irritate the skin of this area and over time cause the labia to change shape or become slightly larger.

4. Aging: As you get older, the skin loses its elasticity and the labia may look a little more droopy or larger.

5. Pregnancy: The reason for the enlargement of the inner edges of the vagina during pregnancy is that the blood flow and hormonal changes increase, and the inner edges of the vagina (labia minora) may be slightly swollen or bigger. This is usually temporary and after childbirth, as the hormone levels return to normal, the labia will return to its previous size.

6. Natural childbirth: Childbirth causes stretching of the tissues of the genital area, and sometimes after the birth of the baby, the size of the labia changes.

Labia cause infection?

Now come to the question "Does large labia cause infection?" Answer:

In general, large labia itself does not cause infection. But large labia may provide the basis for infection. That is, the large labia itself is not the main cause of infection, but it creates conditions for bacteria or fungi to grow more easily.

When the labia are large, sometimes The edges of the vagina overlap and ventilation becomes less. In this case, moisture, heat and body secretions may remain between the skin folds and create a suitable environment for the growth of microbes. In this situation, if washing and drying the area is not done correctly, the possibility of fungal or bacterial infections increases.

The main causes of vaginal infection are not directly related to the size of the labia, but include the following:

• Using tight or non-cotton underwear

• High humidity in the genital area

• risky sex

• Use of antibiotics or hormonal changes

It means that a woman with small labia may get an infection if the hygiene of this area is not respected.

As we said, labia majora itself does not cause infection. You just need to pay more attention to the cleanliness and dryness of the vaginal area. So if you want to know that "What should we do to avoid getting a vaginal infection?” Continue reading:

• Daily gentle washing: Wash your vagina with lukewarm water, but don't overdo it.

• Complete drying: After washing, dry the area with a soft and clean towel so that moisture does not remain between the skin folds.

• Cotton and comfortable underwear: Use cotton and loose clothes so that air flows and moisture does not accumulate.

• Hygiene during period: Change sanitary pads regularly and keep the area clean.

• Avoid perfumed products: Do not use scented vaginal sprays, soaps or douches because they disturb the balance of beneficial bacteria.

Large labia does not need treatment; But if the question is "how to shrink our labia?" You should know that there are different ways to do this. Of course, you should choose one of these methods with doctor's consultation and examination.

1. Labiaplasty surgery

The most common and effective way to shrink the labia, Labiaplasty operation. In this procedure, the doctor carefully removes the extra parts of the labia tissue and makes its appearance more symmetrical. Labiaplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia and on an outpatient basis and the recovery period is between 1 and 2 weeks.

In addition to improving your appearance, this method can increase your physical comfort and self-confidence. However, doing so should The best doctor to perform labiaplasty to avoid possible complications.

2. Non-surgical methods

In cases where the labia are only slightly prominent or loose, non-invasive methods such as laser or radiofrequency (RF device) can be used. These procedures usually do not cause noticeable shrinkage, but they can make the skin in the area tighter, brighter, and more balanced. The result of these treatments is usually temporary and it may be necessary to repeat the sessions to maintain its effect.

3. Care and lifestyle

If labia enlargement is caused by temporary inflammation or irritation, it usually improves by following a few simple tips:

• Using comfortable cotton underwear

• Avoid wearing tight pants or plastic clothes

• Avoid rough or frequent shaving

• Wash and gently dry the area with a clean towel

If you are looking for labia reduction, Dr. Mozhdeh Namdari is one of the leading doctors in the field of women's health and beauty and has many successful experiences in doing labiaplasty.

Also, for those not interested in surgery, Dr. Namdari's office offers RF device and laser procedures.

💡Important note: Before making a decision, be sure to contact Dr. Namdari. Take and consult to choose the best method according to your physical condition and needs.