Vaginal Health

Understanding Your Vagina

The Basics
Complications and Procedures
Improving Vaginal Health

The Basics

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Beware Urological Misinformation Aimed at Women on Social Media

YouTube videos help spread dubious—potentially dangerous—advice about urinary tract infections.

by Kurtis Bright

Half of a papaya is against a teal background with two red dots along either side of the open center.

What Are Bartholin's Glands and Can You Live Without Them?

Recurring infections can lead to complications with these organs near the vaginal opening.

by Lisa Tadiwa

A Pantone color sheet for hymen is on top of a circle slice of orange.

What Is a Hymen? No, It's not Proof of Virginity

We explain the elusive tissue that means so much to society.

by Michele Theil

A paper bag stands open with the edges rolled down against a purple background.

Your 'Outie Vagina' Is Perfectly Normal

Got an outie vag? Learn what's normal and what's not when it comes to your vaginal anatomy.

by Emily Courter

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Improving Vaginal Health

Three unpeeled tangerine halves lay in a row against a pink surface with green smell lines coming from the top.

What Food You Eat Doesn't Change How Your Vagina Smells

Whether the foods you eat taste good or bad, they won't make your vaginal smell different.

by Leandra Beabout

An old book page with aged text has an illustration of speculums next to it.

Speculums (and Tenaculums) May Need a 21st-Century Makeover

Speculums and forceps haven't evolved much since the 1800s. Is it time they did?

by Fjolla Arifi

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The Annual Exam You Didn't Know You Needed

Some experts recommend yearly pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) for preventive care.

by Shannon Jordan

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The Relationship Between Exercise and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

PFD interferes with quality of life and sexual enjoyment, but exercising correctly can help.

by Rachel MacPherson, CPT

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Complications and Procedures

A cherry is being placed in the pelvic region of a female body in a mock operation game.

Hymenoplasty Surgery: Everything You Need to Know

The controversial procedure is common in some countries because of cultural beliefs—and myths.

by Jake Hall

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Surgery May Be a Medical Necessity for Vaginal Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common complaint, but you may have to self-advocate for relief.

by Rachel Crowe

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5 Reasons Your Vagina Smells 'Off'

We asked doctors to explain which vaginal odors are normal—and which are not.

by Leandra Beabout

A toilet bowl is on fire with a red X repeated behind it.

Why Does It Burn When You Pee? 8 Potential Causes

Ovarian cyst? UTI? Experts break down the reasons why it might burn when you urinate.

by Kitti Palmai

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Vaginal Conditions

What Should You Eat When You Have a Yeast Infection (and What To Avoid)?

The food you eat can help you avoid a yeast infection or play a role in causing one.

By Anastasia Climan

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Vaginal Conditions

The UTI-Friendly Diet

Can changing your diet help you prevent or alleviate a urinary tract infection?

By Denise Willson

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Vaginal Conditions

A Dating Guide for Vaginismus

Vaginal health issues do not have to be a death sentence for your sex life.

By Hannah Shewan Stevens

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Vaginal Conditions

What You Can Do to Prevent and Treat Vaginal Prolapse

A few lifestyle changes can stave off the condition.

By Anastasia Climan

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Vaginal Conditions

7 Risk Factors for Vaginal Cancer

Learn about the types of vaginal cancer, and the risk factors and symptoms to watch out for.

By Jessy Humann