We've all heard about breast self-exams, but how often do we discuss vulva self-exams?
Probably not enough. Yet, knowing this area intimately is crucial, especially as we enter perimenopause.
Hormonal shifts can bring thinning, dryness, itchiness, and changes in pH. Having a baseline helps you monitor changes and take proactive steps to stay healthy.
👉 What You Need:
A mirror (or your phone camera)
Personal lubricant (coconut oil works too)
🔎 What to do:
Empty your bladder & wash your hands
Get comfortable — a bed is a great spot if you have privacy, you can pile up pillows behind your back bend your knees to your chest, put your feet together like the ‘butterfly' position in a bikini wax. Place a pillow between your legs and put the mirror on the pillow.
Take a look at your vulva (this includes your clitoris, inner and outer labia, vaginal and urethral openings, and your perineal body, the area between your vaginal and anal opening).
Take time and get comfortable, explore with your fingers different areas including moving your outer labia open. Explore the coloration, size, color, moisture, thickness, skin markings of the skin in this area.
Practice performing Kegels (see below) and watch how your muscles contract and release.
This will give you a baseline to detect any changes that occur. Write down notes and add this to a routine self-health check!