Abstract
Objective
To provide data on the anatomical dimensions of adult female genitalia and to investigate
the possible association of vulvar morphology and sexual function.
Study design
This cross-sectional prospective cohort study, using measurements of the external
genitalia was performed in a day-care unit of a tertiary, university-affiliated medical
center from 2013 to 2014. Thirty-two premenopausal women aged 20–51 years, undergoing
gynecological procedures under general anesthesia (not involving the external genitalia)
were asked to respond to both a local general data questionnaire and a validated sexual
function questionnaire (PISQ-12). Based on reported orgasmic performance during sexual
intercourse, patients were divided into two groups, and the measured genital features
were compared.
Results
Age, body mass index, parity and sexual activity history were recorded. A wide range
of values was noted for each measurement. There was no statistically significant association
between external genitalia measurements and age, parity or sexual activity. There
was no statistically significant difference in any of the external genitalia measurements
between the groups.
Conclusion
Wide variability exists in the appearance of female external genitalia. Sexual function
does not appear to be associated with genital dimensions. This information is important
for both women and surgeons when considering cosmetic vulvar surgery.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 24, 2015
Accepted:
November 17,
2015
Received in revised form:
October 16,
2015
Received:
September 19,
2015
Identification
Copyright
© 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
