Definition of Labia Minora in Biology - Testbook

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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When we delve into the realm of human biology, particularly the female reproductive system, we come across the term 'Labia Minora', also known as the 'inner lips'. These are two small skin folds that originate from the clitoris and descend downwards. The anterior folds of the labia minora encircle the clitoris, forming the clitoral hood and frenulum. From there, the labia minora veers downwards, setting the boundaries for the vulva vestibule.

The point where the folds of the labia minora intersect beneath the vaginal opening is known as the frenulum of the labia minora. The surface of the labia minora is home to numerous sweat glands, sebaceous glands, erectile tissue, and a multitude of nerve endings. Typically, the labia minora remain moist and only become visible when the labia majora are parted.

No two pairs of labia minora are identical. They vary in size and shape, and these characteristics can undergo changes over a woman's lifetime. The labia minora lie beneath the labia majora, extending from the mons pubis. The space enclosed by the two labia minora is called the vestibule, and this houses the vaginal aperture or the vaginal introitus.

The labia minora play a crucial role in protecting the urethral and vaginal openings from infections, dryness, and physical discomfort. They also contribute to sexual stimulation, as they help to distribute lubricant from the vagina and the surrounding area (for instance, the Bartholin glands) to the clitoris and the entire vestibule region.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The labia minora are classified as the smaller lips. They are a pair of tiny cutaneous folds that start at the clitoris and extend downward.

The labia minora protect the urethral and vaginal openings against infections, dryness, and mechanical discomfort. They help the clitoris and the entire vestibule area become more arousing during sexual stimulation by dispersing lubricant from the vagina and the area around it.

The labia minora are situated beneath the labia majora, descending from the mons pubis. The area between the two labia minora is the vestibule, occupied by the vaginal aperture or the vaginal introitus.

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