Dear Elizabeth,

Every women's vulva is made up of the same parts, but each looks different! The outer labia (or lips) are two folds of skin and fatty tissue that are covered with pubic hair after puberty and somewhat cover the rest of the vulva. They can be large or small, short or long, and even (like breasts) two different sizes. This is all normal and part of what makes us each unique. They can be sexually sensitive and can swell a little when a woman gets turned on.

The inner labia (lips) are also sensitive and can swell up when a woman is aroused. These are the folds of skin that go from the clitoral hood to below the vagina. Some people think they look like wings. The inner labia can vary in color from pink to brownish black depending on the color of a woman's skin. Like nipples, the inner labia can change color as women mature. Sometimes they stick out from between the outer labia and hang outside of the outer labia, and they can be wrinkled or smooth.

It's totally normal for healthy girls and women to have a vaginal discharge, which can show up on their underwear. The clinical name for this discharge is leukorrhea. Normal discharges are either thick and whitish or slippery and clear. These changes are normal and they depend on what part of the menstrual cycle you are in. Typical vaginal discharge may have a particular odor — and that's normal, too. However, if a girl notices that her discharge is foamy, that the odor changes or becomes unpleasant, or that she has itching or burning, then she may have vaginitis. Vaginitis is any irritation in the vagina. And it can cause abnormal discharge.

These are common symptoms of vaginitis:

• changes in color, quantity, or texture of the vaginal fluid
• unpleasant odors
• bleeding, spotting, or bloody discoloration
• itching and/or burning of the vagina or vulva.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment to get a gynecological exam. Call 1-800-230-PLAN to be connected to your nearest Planned Parenthood health center for a confidential appointment or use the clinic connection below.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.