Our vulva, just like every part of our body, goes through a lot as time goes by. Puberty, giving birth, menopause, or diseases can change it. As these phenomenons and aging are happening, your vulva and whole vagina will mature and transform. As we grow up, many of us are taught how to take care of our skin, face, or hair. However, taking care of our genitals has been a taboo topic.
With many videos and books available, both online and in the library, how many of them are about taking care of your genitals? Moreover, how come these types of products aren’t as widely popular and endorsed on the market? Our intimate care is just as important as our skincare routine. If you want to learn about the changes your vulva experiences over time, and how to deal with them, continue reading.
What Is Your Vulva Like When You’re 20?
By the age of 20, your vulva may start to change its appearance; the labia will grow and change color. Although appearances vary, this is normal. Pubic hair can grow longer, thicker, and have a change in color. Changes will also occur internally. Common reasons for this are:
● Sex
● Contraceptive use
● Pregnancy
These are some of the factors that can impact your vagina. Also, at the age of 20, you are in your prime childbearing year. This is due to the fact that your pelvic floor strength is in excellent shape. The muscle in the pelvic floor is strong and easily supports your uterus, gallbladder, and rectum.
The only downside is that it can sometimes cause difficulty in having intercourse. In terms of sexual intercourse during your prime years, your vagina will be on its best. Lubrication is never a problem unless your birth control pills will affect it. You should also protect your vulva and vagina from anything that can impact it. First, you should wash it with clean and warm water as needed. Wear appropriate clean and underwear.
Another vital thing to remember is to only use feminine hygiene products that won’t irritate your vulva. There is an insightful review of the key benefits of Rejuvenate Daily Vulva Moisturizer that states how to nourish and protect your most intimate area at the same time. Lastly, use protection to avoid sexually transmitted infections.
What Is Your Vulva Like When You’re 30?
Your vagina is still at prime for childbirth in your 30s, but at the same time you can start to experience some perimenopausal symptoms. Although this isn’t usual, you should still lookout for some of the signs like:
● Irregular periods
● Vaginal and bladder problems
● Decreasing fertility
● Changes in sexual function
This is due to fluctuations in estrogen, the main female hormone. Other things that you can expect in your 30s are physical changes in your vulva – starting with pigmentation, elasticity, and size. Furthermore, the strength of your pelvic floor muscle will be reduced. If you have undergone childbirth, healing may be longer compared to childbirth in your 20s. In terms of sexual changes, libido and stamina are still quite the same.
However, vaginal dryness can occur. This is why it’s essential to get lubricant, vaginal cream, or moisturizer to help you overcome this problem. Avoid wearing nylon pantyhoses or panty girdles as they can trap moisture and irritate your vulva. Also, stay away from any feminine sprays, vaginal deodorants, talc, or powder.
What Is Your Vulva Like When You’re 40?
Most women experience menopause at this age. Your vulva may experience a lot of changes around this time, such as:
● Thinning of the skin around the vulva
● Thinning of the hair around the vulva
● Vulva dryness
● Flattening of the vulva
This can be because of Vulvovaginal Atrophy (VVA) or Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). You should be cautious not to damage or irritate your vulva. Around this time, you can be more prone to vaginal and skin infections. What you should do around this time, aside from the aforementioned intimate care, is to continue to have sex to help with the elasticity and moisturizing your vulva. You can also ask for advice from a health professional to address your condition correctly.
What Is Your Vulva Like When You’re 50 And Beyond?
In the ’50s, most women are either postmenopausal or menopausal. Although all of the changes are done or just currently happening, you are more confident since you are now more knowledgeable about your vulva. Unlike in the past decades, you can now effortlessly and comfortably care about your genitals. Your vulva is now:
● Thinner in size
● Paler than before
● Thinner
You may also have a lot of physical symptoms, like less bladder function and vaginal pressure. Your vaginal lubrication is very insufficient, which can cause vaginal pain and bleeding after sexual intercourse.
With all of these mentioned, here are some of the general things women should do all throughout the stages:
1. Protect your overall health. For your vagina and vulva to be in its best shape, you should eat right, exercise, and have a good lifestyle.
2. Get screened regularly. Knowledge is a useful weapon in fighting any disease. Visit your doctor regularly, get screened, tested, and vaccinated.
3. Use protection. If you have an active sex life, ensure that you are protecting yourself from STIs or any other harm.
4. Check on your hygiene. Wash with water, be mindful of the products you are using, and change your underwear regularly.
5. Be attentive. If you are experiencing any unusual occurrence, make sure to call your doctor for a check-up.
6. Get help when needed. Prolapse and incontinence are usual occurences, but if you’re bothered by it, make sure to get examined by a doctor.
7. Take vitamins. Vitamins will serve as another protector against any disease. Make sure to ask your doctor about them.
Knowledge is power, no matter what stage of your life you’re in. As long as you know what’s happening, you’re ready to face anything. Remember: all of these are normal and natural processes of our body.
Period! is an independent, online magazine about all aspects of menstruation. Period! is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you’re suffering from medical complaints, always visit your doctor or GP. Editorial articles can contain affiliate links. Sponsored collaborations can be found in the category Spotlight. Do you have any questions? Check our contact page.
