The term for the external female genitals is the vulva. It includes the labia, the clitoris, and the openings to the urethra and vagina. Think of it as the visible landscape of female sexual anatomy.

The labia majora (outer lips) and labia minora (inner lips) surround and protect the more sensitive structures. Their size, shape, and color vary widely from person to person.

Nestled at the top where the labia minora meet is the clitoris. While only a small part, the glans, is typically visible, the full organ extends deep into the body. It's composed of erectile tissue, similar to the penis, and contains thousands of nerve endings, making it the primary center for sexual pleasure.

The full clitoris is an intricate structure with a shaft and two legs, called crura, that wrap around the urethra and vagina. Its sole purpose is pleasure. During arousal, the clitoris becomes engorged with blood, increasing its sensitivity.

Moving inward, we find the internal reproductive organs, which also play a key role in sexual response.

The vagina is a muscular, elastic tube that connects the vulva to the cervix. Its walls are lined with folds of tissue called rugae, which allow it to expand significantly during arousal and childbirth. Though the vaginal walls have fewer nerve endings than the clitoris, they are sensitive to pressure and touch. During arousal, the vaginal walls self-lubricate to allow for more comfortable penetration.

At the very top of the vagina is the cervix, a small, doughnut-shaped opening to the uterus. The cervix can be a source of sensation, particularly during deep penetration. The feeling can be pleasurable for some and uncomfortable for others, depending on the individual, the position, and the timing within the menstrual cycle.

The uterus is a pear-shaped, muscular organ located in the pelvis. While its primary role is reproductive, it is also involved in sexual response. During orgasm, the uterine muscles contract rhythmically. Some people also experience a sense of deep pleasure from the pressure against the uterus during intercourse.

Let's review the structures we've covered.