We no longer have labia, but vulval lips

There is a movement underway that you as a woman definitely don't want to miss, because before you know it, you're talking about labia at a party or a gathering – you never know how a conversation goes – and then you miss the mark. In 2024, we no longer say ‘labia’, but ‘vulval lips’.

Let's stop using the word ‘labia’ and let's all make it ‘vulval lips’. For example, that's what professor of sexology Ellen Laan wants.

Why is the word ‘shame’ in there? Why does it suggest that we should be ashamed of those lips? The word ‘shame’ has no place there, between your legs. And the vulva is simply the word for your vagina. Now thousands of women want the Dikke Van Dale dictionary to no longer include ‘labia’ as an official word, but ‘vulval lip’. It is also anatomically correct, as they are the lips that belong to the vulva. Now it’s just a matter of getting it known among the general public.

We mostly agree. Let's teach women and especially all those young girls that it has nothing to do with shame. Even if you might not think about it right away, ‘labia’ sounds a bit more negative than ‘vulval lips’. The latter simply states what it is. ‘Shame’ has a negative undertone. No need for that when talking about your own body. We should be proud of those lips, in whatever shape, size, or form. Bye shame. Hi vulval lip.