What is an "outie vagina?" Understanding your vulva, and owning your unique normal

Ever looked in the mirror and wondered if your vulva looks “normal”? You’re not the only one. Over on TikTok, it seems like lots of us have been asking the same thing, questioning what “normal” even means, and whether certain shapes, sizes, or colors are anything to worry about.

One term that often comes up in this context is “outie vagina.” While this term is actually anatomically incorrect – and it’s important to clarify and unlearn this, as vulva and vagina aren’t interchangeable and we shouldn’t be unquestionably erasing important parts of our anatomy – it’s the labia that are the visible part of the vulva, not the vagina. 

That said, having a so-called “outie vagina” is completely normal. In fact, it’s one of the most common variations in vulva anatomy.

So, let’s dig a little deeper into what this means, along with a quick tour of the real anatomy of the vulva, and talk about when (if ever) it’s worth speaking to a doctor.

What is an outie vagina?

The term “outie vagina” sounds like a playground term, doesn’t it? It’s just a slang or informal way of describing a vulva where the inner labia (labia minora) extend beyond the outer labia (labia majora). This creates a visible fold or protrusion, especially when looking at the vulva head-on.

A quick refresher before we move forward – as we’ve mentioned, despite the name, it’s not actually the vagina that’s “out”. It’s the labia. The vagina itself is internal. What most people are referring to when they say “outie vagina” is the external genital area, specifically the labia and vulva.

This appearance is incredibly common. In fact, one study from 2017 suggests that around half of all women could have inner labia that protrude. Who knew?

What is the anatomy of the vulva?

Understanding what makes an “outie” requires a quick tour of the anatomy of the vulva. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key parts:

• Labia majora: These are the outer lips of the vulva. They tend to be fleshier and often have pubic hair.
• Labia minora: These are the inner lips. They vary widely in size, shape, and color and may be tucked neatly inside the labia majora, or may extend beyond them.
• Clitoris: A sensitive bundle of nerve endings located at the top of the vulva, just above where the inner labia meet.
• Urethra: The small opening just below the clitoris where urine exits the body.
• Vaginal opening: The internal passage that connects to the uterus, located beneath the urethra.

We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. The word “vulva” covers all the external genital parts, while “vagina” refers to the internal canal. So when we talk about “innie” or “outie” vaginas, we’re really talking about the vulva, and the labia within it.

Innie or outie vagina – what’s the difference?

The “innie vs. outie” idea is just a visual way to describe vulva variation.

• Innie vagina: A vulva where the inner labia are hidden inside the outer labia.
• Outie vagina: A vulva where the inner labia extend beyond the outer labia. This can result in folds, texture, or even asymmetry (which is also super common, by the way).

Neither version is better, healthier, or more “normal” than the other. Despite what society seems to expect of us as women, the diversity of vulvas is completely natural.

Outie labia – what causes it?

There seem to be a few derogatory myths floating around about large or “outie” labia. Let’s clear these up straight away.

The appearance of your labia is largely determined by:

• Genetics: Just like your eye color or height.
  Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can all influence vulva appearance – watch Dr. Samantha Pfeifer, board-certified obstetrician/gynaecologist and reproductive endocrinologist, talk about vulva swelling in pregnancy here.
• Aging: Over time, the skin and tissues of the vulva can stretch or change slightly.

So, outie labia are absolutely not a sign of poor hygiene, health problems, or how often you have sex. It’s simply how your (amazing) body was made.

When to talk to a doctor about vulva changes

While most variations in vulva appearance are totally normal, it’s worth checking in with a healthcare provider if you notice:

• Sudden swelling or pain in the labia
• A lump or bump that doesn’t go away
• Itching, burning, or unusual discharge
• Changes in color or texture that feel out of the ordinary for you
• Discomfort during exercise, sex, or wearing certain clothes

In rare cases, very enlarged labia might cause physical discomfort, like chafing or pinching. If that’s something you’re experiencing, your doctor might be able to talk through some options for management.

Side note – While we’re all for choice and having options that make us feel more confident in our own skin, cosmetic labiaplasty, which alters the shape of the labia for appearance’s sake, is almost never medically necessary. And that’s that on that.

Body confidence starts with knowing yourself

The bottom line? We think that getting familiar with your own body is one of the very best forms of self-care. And let’s be real, many of us don’t get a close look at our vulvas very often!

But just like the rest of our bodies, our vulvas come in endless shapes and sizes. Some are symmetrical, others aren’t. Some labia are “innies,” others are “outies.” They are all normal.

So, let’s relearn our bodies’ unique design, and start talking about our quirks using the correct, empowering terminology – it might just help to increase self-esteem and boost confidence, as well as help us better advocate for our health.

Next on your reading list: Lifting the lid on Lichen Sclerosus – what is it, and does it affect fertility?