The vulva has a complex anatomy and physiology. It belongs to the female reproductive system but the relationship between its structure and its reproductive function cannot be fully understood without integrating the concept that the vulva is also a sexual organ. Its sexual function is not only related to its reproductive function – the vulva also has an important role with regard to intimate communication and sexual arousal. It is an organ linked with an important identity and symbolic meaning. The anthropologists give the vulva – like the penis – a function in social communication.

External sexual organs are connecting organs. A special and intimate connection exists with pleasure and they are at the centre of body identity. The ability to experience one’s own sexuality fully is a result of a long learning process, partially conscious and partially unconscious, which continues through the whole lifetime. The fact that the vulva is involved in identity and intimate communication of pleasure has been neglected for a long time. Gynaecologists considered it as the last part of the delivery canal, dermatologists as a remote region of the ‘skin planet’ and psychologists as a mysterious organ wrapped in emotion. This prevented the creation of specific expertise in this area for a long time. Now there are specialists in sexology and psychosexual disorders who can be very helpful to these patients. The physician should be aware of underlying issues affecting psychosexual health and should refer the patient to an appropriate specialist for expert advice.