Let’s be honest: most of us grew up calling everything “down there” a vagina. But here’s the thing — your vulva and vagina aren’t the same. And knowing the difference isn’t just anatomy trivia; it’s what can truly make your sexual wellness, self-care, and pleasure even better!
To set the record straight, we spoke with Dr. Charles M. Carlsen, an OB-GYN and founder of DrSono.com, who has spent over 20 years helping patients understand their bodies from both a medical and a confidence-boosting perspective.
Vulva vs. Vagina: What’s the Difference?
“The vulva is the outer portion that you see externally: the labia, clitoris, and openings for the vagina and the urethra,” Dr. Carlsen tells Playground, “The vagina is the inside tube that runs between the vulva and the uterus.”
Knowing the difference between the vulva and vagina matters because each has unique functions and needs. The vulva is your external anatomy—it protects sensitive tissue, responds to arousal, and helps regulate moisture. The vagina, meanwhile, is internal: a self-cleansing muscular canal that connects to the cervix.
“It’s helpful to know the distinction so that you know how to properly take care of each area and are aware if something doesn’t look or feel normal,” says Dr. Carlsen.
Why People Still Get It Wrong
“A lot of women utter the word ‘vagina’ for all things because it is handy,” Dr. Carlsen explains. “That can result in bathing the wrong way, dismissing irritation, or doubting about infections.”
When you don’t know what’s what, it’s easy to treat your vulva like your vagina — and that can lead to vaginal irritation or pH imbalance. For example, using scented soaps or “feminine washes” inside the vagina can disrupt its natural ecosystem, leading to yeast infections or discomfort. Feminine washes, though, are meant for the vulva.
That’s why experts recommend pH-balanced, vulva-safe products designed to support your body’s microbiome, like Playground’s Free Love Lubricant or Miracle Melts. These products are gynecologist-approved, gentle, and made to keep your vulva (and sex life) feeling healthy and confident.
Myths About Vulvas and Vaginas, Debunked
According to Dr. Carlsen, misinformation about vulva hygiene and vaginal self-care runs deep.
“Many believe vaginas need to smell like flowers or all vulvas appear the same or that keeping yourself clean is done by a douche. None of these are facts,” he says.
In reality, vulvas vary widely in color, texture, and shape—and every variation can be perfectly healthy. “Vulvas are all shapes, all colors, all sizes,” says Dr. Carlsen. “Vulvas that are normal are healthy, are not painful, and are physically free from disease. Looks are irrelevant medically.”
In other words: your vulva doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s to be normal!
How to Care for Your Vulva and Vagina
“The vulva must be washed gently with water,” says Dr. Carlsen. “No soaps, wipes, or fragrances that will irritate. The vagina self-clears, so no douche or strong products.”
Your vagina is naturally acidic, with a pH level of 3.8–4.5, which helps protect against infection. Harsh soaps or douching can disrupt that delicate balance. “I tell the patient that less is more,” he adds. “The vagina is intelligent and cleans itself.”
Instead, focus your care externally. Rinse gently with warm water, pat dry, and wear breathable cotton underwear. If you need an extra boost of comfort or moisture, reach for Playground’s lubricants, which are made for both vulva comfort and vaginal health — pH-balanced and infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.
Pleasure Is a Health Practice
One of the biggest takeaways? Understanding the vulva vs. vagina difference for yourself can improve your time between the sheets!
“Friction will irritate or cause small tears,” says Dr. Carlsen. “Lubrication and gentle care avoid discomfort. Safer sex habits, condoms, and good cleaning keep tissue healthy.”
When you know what parts of your anatomy are being stimulated — and how to care for them — you can experience more pleasure without pain.
“Being familiar with your body also aids comfort, avoids infections, and enhances pleasure,” he says. “You are able to tell your partner what feels good, avoid causing hurt, and make informed decisions regarding contraception or sexual activity.”
When Something Feels Off
Even with the best care, sometimes things change. Dr. Carlsen suggests watching for warning signs like “strange discharge, smelling discharge, itchiness, burning while peein’, hurtin’ or bleeding between your periods.”
If you experience any of those, book an appointment with your OB-GYN. “Preventions are done early,” he says. “I have noticed that patients receive quick relief when they show up early.”
Basically, don’t wait or self-diagnose! Your vulva and vagina are strong, but they deserve expert attention when something feels off.
Daily Habits That Support Vaginal and Vulva Health
Good habits make a huge difference for both comfort and confidence. Dr. Carlsen recommends:
-
Practicing pelvic floor exercises to strengthen vaginal muscles and improve blood flow.
-
Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear to avoid moisture buildup.
-
Drying the vulva after swimming or working out.
-
Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet.
“I frequently observe patients become more self-assured and confident after incorporating these routines,” he says.
And for a little extra self-care? Use a gentle, body-safe lubricant like Playground’s Mini Escape to keep tissues supple, hydrated, and happy.
The TL/DR?
So, what does this all mean for you? Well, understanding the difference between your vulva and vagina empowers you to take control of your sexual health and pleasure. When you know what each part needs, and stop treating them the same, you can prevent irritation, improve comfort, and experience deeper pleasure.
“Being familiar with your body aids comfort, avoids infections, and enhances pleasure.”
Your vulva and vagina deserve that kind of care. And hey, we know someone who can help with that ;)
