Female External Genital Organs: Overview, Gross, Structure & Function

The female external genitalia refers to the outer organs of the female reproductive system. The external genitalia of males are different from those of females. The genital system development occurs during the embryonic period and ends after puberty.

The female reproductive system of females is comprised of structures that are involved in the menstrual cycle, coitus, the act of fertilisation, pregnancy and childbirth. The reproductive system can be categorised as Internal genitalia (Uterus, Fallopian tube, Cervix, Ovaries, Vagina), External genitalia (Vulva), and Accessory structures (Mammary glands). The female external genitalia is an important part of the biology subject.

This Story also Contains

1. What are the Female External Genital Organs?
2. External Female Genital Organ Anatomy
3. Functions of Female External Genital Organs
4. Development of Female External Genital Organs
5. Common Conditions and Disorders
6. MCQs on Female External Genitalia
7. Recommended Video On 'Female External Genitalia'

What are the Female External Genital Organs?

The external genital organs of a woman are collectively referred to as the vulva and are composed of all the external parts of the female reproductive system. These organs include the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vestibule, hymen, and Bartholin's glands. They make up the copulatory organs, which play a vital role in protecting the internal genital organs, and also aid in reproduction.

This knowledge of anatomy and functions will help the individual maintain reproductive health, identify disorders, and manage them to promote overall well-being. Proper care and hygiene of the external genital organs, hence, will prevent infections and a host of other health problems.

External Female Genital Organ Anatomy

The collective term for a female's external genital organs is the vulva. It comprises various distinct parts that make up the vulva and are unique in terms of their functions and characteristics.

Vulva

• It is the external female genitalia

• Includes the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vestibule, hymen, and Bartholin's glands

Mons Pubis

• Fatty tissue covered by skin and pubic hair

• Protects the pubic bone and cushions during sexual intercourse

Labia Majora

• Two large, fleshy folds of skin.

• Surrounds and protects the other external genital organs.

Labia Minora

• Two thin, hairless folds of skin within the labia majora.

• Protects the openings of the vagina and urethra.

Clitoris

• Composed of the glans, body and crura.

Vestibule

• It is the region between the labia minora.

• The urethral and vaginal openings open into this area.

Hymen

• The thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening.

• Shape and size vary among women.

Bartholin's Glands

• Located near the vaginal opening.

• Produces secretions that lubricate the vagina.

Functions of Female External Genital Organs

These organs play some important functions relating to protective, reproductive, and sexual health.

Protective Functions

• The external genital organs act as a physical barrier to the entry of the pathogen and hence protect against infections.

Reproductive Functions

• The vulva dilates to allow parturition, the exit of the baby from the uterus..

• It provides an exit for menstrual blood during the menstrual cycle.

Development of Female External Genital Organs

The development of these organs occurs initially during embryonic development but is completed at puberty.

Embryonic Development

• It involves differentiation and growth of genital structures.

• Long-term differentiation is achieved through estrogen and other hormones.

Puberty

• Enlargement of the external genital organs, the growth of pubic hair, and the onset of menstruation.

Common Conditions and Disorders

A variety of conditions affect the female external genitalia. Some require awareness, while others require medical attention.

Infections

• Types: bacterial, fungal and viral.

• Symptoms: Itching, burning, discharge

• Treatments: Medications, good hygiene

Congenital Anomalies

• Examples: Imperforate hymen, Labial fusion

• Implications: May need surgical correction

Benign and Malignant Tumours

• Types: Cysts, vulvar cancer.

• Symptoms: Lumps, pain, skin changes.

• Importance of Early Detection: Regular check-ups and prompt treatment.

MCQs on Female External Genitalia

Q1. Which of the following is the external genitalia of a female?

Option 1: Mons Pubis

Option 2: Labia majora

Option 3: Labia minora

Option 4: All of the above

Correct answer: 4) All of the above

Explanation:

The female external genitalia include mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, hymen and clitoris. Mons pubis is a cushion of fatty tissue covered by skin and pubic hair. The labia majora are fleshy folds of tissue, which extend down from the mons pubis and surround the vaginal opening. The labia minora are paired folds of tissue under the labia majora.

The opening of the vagina is often covered partially by a membrane called a hymen. The clitoris is a tiny finger-like structure which lies at the upper junction of the two labia minora above the urethral opening. The hymen is often torn during the first coitus (intercourse).

Hence, all the options are true, and option 4) All of the above

Q2.

Option 1: 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

Option 2: 1-B,2-D,3-A,4-C

Option 3: 1-D,2-B,3-A,4-C

Option 4: 1-C,2-D,3-B,4-A

Correct answer: 1) 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

Mons pubis: The mons pubis refers to a cushion of fatty tissue located at the front of the pubic bone in the female genital area. It is commonly covered with pubic hair and acts as a protective and cushioning layer over the pubic bone.

Labia majora: The labia majora are fleshy folds of tissue that are part of the external female genitalia. They are located on the outer side of the vulva and are commonly referred to as the "outer lips." They are typically larger and more prominent compared to the labia minora, protecting the underlying structures of the vulva.

Labia minora: The labia minora are paired folds of tissue located inside the labia majora. They are often referred to as the "inner lips." The labia minora are thinner and more delicate compared to the labia majora. They enclose and protect the openings to the urethra and vagina.

Clitoris: The clitoris is a highly sensitive and erectile organ located at the front junction of the labia minora. It is composed of erectile tissue and contains numerous nerve endings, making it a key organ involved in sexual arousal and pleasure. The clitoris has a hood-like covering called the clitoral hood, which helps protect the sensitive glans of the clitoris.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1) 1-D,2-A,3-B,4-C

Q3. The ___ are paired folds of tissue under the labia majora

Option 1: Clitoris

Option 2: Foreskin

Option 3: Labia minora

Option 4: Mons pubis

Correct answer: 4) Labia minora

Explanation:

The labia minora are paired folds of tissue under the labia major. The labia minora are smaller, thinner, and more delicate than the labia majora and enclose the vaginal and urethral openings. They are rich in blood vessels, nerve endings, and sebaceous glands, contributing to sensitivity and lubrication. The folds may vary in size, shape, and colour among individuals. The labia minora play a key role in protecting the vaginal and urethral openings and maintaining genital health.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Labia minora

Recommended Video On 'Female External Genitalia'