Labia Majora: Anatomy, Function, and Aesthetics

What Are the Labia Majora?

The labia majora are the two relatively large, fleshy folds of tissue that make up the outer border of a woman's vulva. They extend from the mons pubis (the fatty mound above the genitals) downwards and backwards to merge near the perineum (the area between the genitals and anus). In other words, they run along each side of the vaginal and urethral openings, enclosing and protecting the more delicate inner structures. The word "labia" itself means lips, reflecting how the labia majora surround the vaginal opening similar to how lips surround the mouth.

Each labium majus (singular for labia majora) is composed of skin, fatty tissue, and fibrous tissue. On the outer side, the skin of the labia majora tends to be pigmented (often a bit darker than other body skin) and, after puberty, is covered with coarse pubic hair. On the inner side (the side facing the other labium and the vaginal opening), the skin is smoother, hairless, and has some sweat and oil glands. During puberty, hormones cause the labia majora to accumulate fat and grow in size, and pubic hair appears, signaling sexual maturity.

Anatomy and Relationship to Surrounding Structures

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Anatomically, the labia majora form the outer boundary of the vulva and play a defining role in vulvar structure. They meet at the front just beneath the mons pubis, at a spot called the anterior commissure, and at the back above the perineum at the posterior commissure. Together, the two labia majora create the pudendal cleft, which is the vertical slit or cleft of the vulva that encloses the inner lips (labia minora) and the openings of the urethra and vagina. Lying immediately inside the labia majora are the thinner, smaller labia minora, which border the vaginal and urethral openings and converge at the clitoris. In a resting position (when a woman is not aroused), the labia majora often naturally cover or conceal the inner labia and clitoris to some degree, like closing a soft protective curtain over those sensitive parts.

Internally, the labia majora are supported by adipose tissue (fat) that gives them their characteristic padded, cushioned feel. This fat padding is part of why the labia majora are comparably thicker or fuller than the inner labia. Within each labium runs a portion of the round ligament of the uterus (a ligament that in women extends from the uterus into the labia majora). This ligament’s path is a remnant of embryological development — in fact, during fetal development the same tissues that become the labia majora in females would have formed the scrotum in males. This shared origin explains why the labia majora have some similarities to a male scrotum (such as hair-bearing skin and sweat glands).

The labia majora are rich in blood supply and have nerve endings, though not as many as more sensitive structures like the clitoris. During sexual arousal, increased blood flow to the vulva can cause the labia majora (along with the labia minora) to swell slightly and deepen in color due to engorgement. This is a normal part of the body’s arousal response. Surrounding glands like Bartholin’s glands (located near the vaginal opening) can also provide lubrication to the inner vulvar area, but those glands are just inside the labia majora rather than within them.

Biological Functions of the Labia Majora

The labia majora serve several important biological functions as part of the vulva:

• Protection: One of the primary roles of the labia majora is to enclose and shield the more delicate structures of the vulva — namely the clitoris, urethral opening, and vaginal opening. By forming a protective outer barrier, they help guard against infectious organisms, dirt, and mechanical irritation to the sensitive mucosal tissues inside. For example, the labia majora close together to some extent, helping keep the vaginal opening and urethra from direct exposure to irritants or injury in daily life.
• Cushioning: The fatty tissue within the labia majora provides padding that cushions the pubic area. This is useful during activities like walking, exercising, or during sexual intercourse. The labia majora (along with the mons pubis) absorb friction and pressure, which can protect the pubic bone and the internal genital structures from impact. Essentially, these fleshy folds act as a natural pillow or shock absorber for the vulvar region.
• Thermoregulation and Moisture Control: The skin of the labia majora contains numerous sweat glands (both eccrine and apocrine) and oil (sebaceous) glands. The eccrine sweat glands secrete sweat to help cool the area when body temperature rises (just as they do elsewhere on the body). The presence of pubic hair on the labia majora can also help with thermoregulation and moisture control — hair can reduce friction and help wick sweat away from the skin. Meanwhile, the sebaceous glands produce natural oils that moisturize the skin and keep it from becoming too dry. By maintaining proper moisture, these secretions also create a slightly acidic environment on the skin that can deter harmful bacteria, contributing to the prevention of infections.
• Lubrication: Although most vaginal lubrication comes from internal vaginal walls and Bartholin’s glands, the labia majora’s oil and sweat glands do contribute to overall vulvar moisture. The lubricating secretions from sebaceous glands in the labia majora help the inner labial surfaces glide smoothly against each other and against the labia minora. This can reduce chafing and discomfort during activities like intercourse or exercise.
• Sensation and Sexual Function: The labia majora contain nerve endings that make them sensitive to touch (though less sensitive than the inner labia and clitoris). Caressing or touching the labia majora can be pleasurable for some individuals, and they form part of the broader network of genital anatomy involved in sexual arousal. During arousal, the labia majora also swell slightly with increased blood flow and can deepen in color (a normal response). Additionally, the apocrine sweat glands in the labia majora (especially on the inner sides) produce a scented, fatty sweat. Bacteria on the skin break down this apocrine sweat, causing body odor unique to the groin. Historically, this musky scent is thought to have had a role in pheromonal signaling, potentially helping attract mates, although human pheromone effects are still not fully understood.

In summary, the labia majora are not “just there for show” — they actively protect the genital area, provide cushioning, regulate the local environment, and contribute to comfort and sexual function. They work together with the inner labia and other parts of the vulva to keep the genital region healthy and functional.

Natural Variation in Size, Shape, Color, and Texture

Just like any other body part, there is wide natural variation in the appearance of labia majora from person to person. There is no one "normal" look — vulvas (including the labia) can differ greatly, and healthy labia majora come in all sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. Here are some aspects of how the labia majora can vary:

Size (Length & Fullness)

Some labia majora are relatively short, while others can be longer extending closer to the anus. One large study found the average length of the labia majora to be about 7.9 to 8.0 cm (around 3.1 inches), but many women have labia majora that are shorter or longer than this average. In terms of thickness or fullness, some people have fuller, puffier labia majora, whereas others have thinner or flatter ones. Labia majora that are very full may protrude more, whereas thinner labia majora might lie flatter against the body. It’s also common for the two sides to be a little different in size — perfect symmetry is rare (just as most people have one foot slightly larger than the other). Minor asymmetry is usually not noticeable and is medically normal.

Shape and Coverage

In some individuals, the labia majora lie close together, meeting at the midline and completely covering the inner labia (labia minora). This is sometimes referred to as having an “innie” appearance or closed outer lips. In other cases, the labia majora sit further apart or are smaller, resulting in a slight gap that lets the inner labia or vaginal opening show through — an open outer lip configuration. Neither is better or worse; it's simply anatomical variation. Many women have inner labia that protrude past the labia majora (“outies”), while others have inner labia that are hidden by the majora; all of these configurations are common and healthy. It’s worth noting that the appearance can change with different positions or states: for example, when standing vs. sitting, or when aroused (labia swell and may open slightly).

Color and Pigmentation

Labia majora can range in color from pale pink or light brown to deep brown, reddish, or even purplish tones. It’s very common for the labia (both majora and minora) to be darker in color than the surrounding skin on the thighs or abdomen. Some people’s labia majora match their general skin tone, while others have significantly darker or slightly lighter labial skin. Genetics and natural pigmentation play a big role here. Additionally, hormonal factors can affect color: for instance, during puberty and pregnancy, increased blood flow and estrogen can cause the labia to deepen in color (and they may lighten somewhat after pregnancy). Over the years, normal aging and friction can also cause the labia to become darker. The vulvar skin has a high concentration of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), and over time, things like estrogen changes, sexual activity, and even wearing form-fitting clothing can stimulate these cells to produce more pigment. This is why an individual’s labia majora might be pinker in adolescence and gradually turn tan or brownish later in adulthood – all normal changes. During sexual arousal, increased blood flow can temporarily make the labial skin appear redder or darker; they return to their usual color afterward.

Texture and Firmness

The feel of the labia majora can also vary. Some labia majora have very smooth skin, while others have a more wrinkled or folded texture. It’s common for the labia majora to have some wrinkles or soft folds, especially when not engorged with blood (similar to how the scrotum in males has a wrinkled appearance). Younger individuals and those with higher levels of estrogen often have plumper, more elastic labia majora, whereas with age (or after significant weight loss), the skin and fat of the labia majora can become less dense, leading to a looser or thinner texture. After menopause, for example, reduced hormone levels can cause the labia majora to lose some of their fatty tissue and elasticity, sometimes making them flatter, softer, or smaller than before. On the other hand, increased estrogen (such as during pregnancy or from certain birth control) may make the labia majora temporarily swell or feel firmer. The presence of hair also affects texture: with pubic hair, the labia may feel coarser to the touch; if someone shaves or removes hair, the skin and any natural bumps (like hair follicles or glands) might be more noticeable. Small bumps, visible veins, or color variation on the labia majora skin are usually normal; for instance, many people can see hair follicles or oil glands as tiny bumps.

It’s important to emphasize that all these variations are typically normal. Many people worry that their labia majora or other genital parts don’t look “right”, but in reality there is a huge range of normal. Unless there is pain, recurrent irritation, or other troubling symptoms, differences in size or appearance are usually just part of individual anatomy. If you’re curious, resources like the Labia Library’s photo gallery of real vulvas can show just how diverse labia majora (and minora) can be in healthy women. This diversity is completely natural.

Aesthetic and Cultural Perceptions of the Labia Majora

Societal and cultural attitudes have a strong influence on how people feel about the appearance of their labia. Perceptions of what is “attractive” or “normal” for labia majora have changed over time and can vary between different cultures. In many Western media images (such as in magazines or adult films), vulvas are often presented with very small or non-visible inner labia and smooth, tight labia majora. This has led to a common notion that the “ideal” vulva has labia majora that meet in the middle and completely hide the inner labia and clitoris. In fact, one study noted that for many women, the aesthetic ideal was having symmetrical inner labia and a clitoris that are fully covered by the labia majora. This perception can make those with more prominent inner labia or less symmetrical labia feel self-conscious, even though medical professionals affirm that such variations are usually normal.

It’s interesting that the type of vulva often shown as ideal (sometimes called a “Barbie doll” or “closed” look) – with small, closed labia majora and nothing protruding – is actually one of the least common types in real life. Many women naturally have inner labia that extend beyond the labia majora or labia majora that don’t touch at the midline, and that’s perfectly okay. The prevalence of certain images in pornography or mainstream media can create a skewed idea of normal, leading some to believe that their labia are abnormal when they are not. Increasingly, health experts emphasize educating women about the wide range of normal genital appearance to combat unnecessary insecurity.

Cultural differences also play a role in labial aesthetics. What is considered desirable in one culture may not be the same in another. For example, while many Western women might prefer smaller inner labia that are hidden by the majora, in some cultures larger or elongated labia are traditionally considered attractive. Historical and anthropological reports have noted that in parts of Rwanda, Mozambique, and among some groups in Japan, women with more pronounced or larger labia (especially labia minora) were seen as desirable. These differences highlight that there is no universal standard of “beautiful” labia — much of it is cultural conditioning.

The labia majora themselves can also be subject to aesthetic preference. Some individuals feel that full, plump labia majora give a more youthful or sexually appealing look, since labia majora tend to lose volume with age. In cosmetic surgery circles, it’s noted that full labia majora are an important component of a youthful female vulva, whereas very deflated or sagging labia majora may be associated with aging. This has led to procedures aimed at vulvar rejuvenation, which might include adding volume to the labia majora (more on that shortly). On the other hand, others might feel self-conscious if their labia majora are very bulky or prominent in tight clothing. Preferences are highly personal: some may prefer the aesthetic of a smooth, taut labia majora, while others embrace the natural softness and folds.

Fashion and grooming trends can influence perceptions too. The trend of bikini waxing or laser hair removal in recent decades, for instance, has made the labia majora more visible than when pubic hair was kept full. With hair removed, a person might pay more attention to the shape or size of their labia majora than they otherwise would. This visibility can sometimes spark new aesthetic concerns. Ultimately, comfort and confidence are key. As long as the labia majora are healthy, there is no medical need to change their appearance. Efforts like the Labia Library and body-positivity movements encourage women to recognize that their vulvas are normal and uniquely theirs, even if they don’t resemble edited images from media.

Labiaplasty for the Labia Majora and Other Considerations

While most variations of the labia majora are normal and don’t require any intervention, some individuals seek surgical or cosmetic procedures on the labia majora for various reasons. Labiaplasty, a term most often associated with reducing the labia minora, can also refer to procedures on the labia majora. Here we introduce why someone might consider labia majora modification and what it can involve:

• Discomfort or Functional Reasons: In cases where the labia majora are especially enlarged or have excess skin, a person might experience physical discomfort. For instance, very bulky or elongated labia majora can rub against clothing or get pinched during exercise (such as cycling or running), leading to irritation or chafing. Some may find it uncomfortable to wear certain tight-fitting clothes like leggings or swimsuits due to friction or a visible bulge. If the labia majora are extremely lax (loose) and hang significantly, they might also trap moisture or make hygiene (wiping clean) a bit more challenging, potentially leading to irritation. It’s important to note that medically, significantly enlarged labia (sometimes termed labial hypertrophy) rarely cause serious problems. But for those who do have persistent pain, hygiene issues, or skin problems due to their labia majora, a surgical reduction can be considered to remove excess tissue and streamline the shape. This specific surgery is sometimes called a labia majoraplasty (labia majora reduction).
• Cosmetic or Aesthetic Preference: Just as one might choose cosmetic surgery for other body parts, some individuals elect to have labiaplasty on the labia majora for aesthetic reasons. This is a very personal decision. A person might feel self-conscious about the appearance of her labia majora — for example, feeling that they are too saggy, asymmetrical, or disproportionate. Labiaplasty can be done to create a tighter, more youthful look by removing sagging skin or reducing the size of overly prominent labia majora. On the flip side, others are bothered by loss of volume in the labia majora (often due to aging or after significant weight loss). With age, pregnancy, and hormonal changes, the labia majora can lose tone and volume, sometimes leading to a wrinkled or deflated appearance. In such cases, instead of reducing size, a procedure can add volume. Plastic surgeons may use fat grafting (injecting a patient’s own fat) or dermal fillers to plump up the labia majora and restore the fullness that has been lost. This is a form of vulvar rejuvenation aimed at making the vulva look more like it did in younger years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, if there is primarily volume loss, a small amount of fat injected into each labium can “recreate the fullness that has been lost”. If there is excess, saggy skin, a surgical reduction can remove it for a tighter contour.
• Gender-Affirming Surgery (Construction of Labia Majora): It’s worth mentioning that labia majora are not only altered for cisgender women. In transgender women (individuals assigned male at birth who transition to female), creating labia majora is a standard part of vaginoplasty (genital gender-affirming surgery). Surgeons typically form the labia majora using tissue from the scrotum, since the scrotal skin is thick and elastic like natural labia majora. The scrotal tissue is reshaped to create a pair of labial folds, while other parts (like portions of the penile skin) form the labia minora and vaginal lining. The result is a constructed vulva with labia majora, labia minora, a clitoris, etc. — giving the appearance and some of the functionality of a natal female’s genitalia. In fact, the labia majora’s embryological homologue is the scrotum, so using scrotal tissue makes anatomical sense in surgery. For trans women who undergo this surgery, having labia majora can be both functionally and emotionally significant, helping them feel that their genital anatomy aligns with their gender identity. There are also instances where cisgender women who have lost their labia majora (for example, due to trauma or illness) might have reconstructive surgery to rebuild them, though this is less common.

If someone is considering a labiaplasty or any labia majora procedure, it’s important to consult a qualified gynecologist or plastic surgeon who has experience with female genital surgeries. They can provide guidance on what changes are feasible and safe, and ensure that the individual’s expectations are realistic. Surgical alteration of the labia, like any surgery, carries risks such as scarring, changes in sensation, or infection, so the decision should be made carefully and for the right reasons (i.e. the individual’s own comfort and happiness, not due to external pressure).

In Closing

The labia majora are a remarkable part of human anatomy – from providing protection and cushioning to varying tremendously from person to person in appearance. Understanding what’s normal can help demystify this part of the body and alleviate unnecessary insecurities. Culturally imposed ideals about vulvas do not always reflect the reality that nature has a wide palette. Whether one’s labia majora are large or small, symmetric or not, dark or light, smooth or wrinkled, they are usually perfectly normal as long as they are healthy. And for those who experience discomfort or who seek changes for personal reasons, medical solutions like labiaplasty of the labia majora or augmentation are available and increasingly common, including as part of transgender women’s surgical transition. As always, the guiding principle is that comfort, function, and personal confidence drive what, if any, intervention is pursued. In all cases, learning about your own anatomy and seeing the diversity in others can foster a greater appreciation for the labia majora and the role they play in our bodies.