TEENS

VULVA describes all of your external body parts of your genitals. It consists of different parts. Please do not use VAGINA for your VULVA, because that is not correct. See the explanation for VAGINA.

UTERUS (also called womb) consists of a strong muscle that holds the baby during pregnancy.

It is a super organ as it is as small as a fist at first but can grow as big as a watermelon once the baby is growing inside. And after pregnancy it shrinks back to the size of a fist! The embryo also implants itself within the uterus when/if it has been fertilized.

VAGINA describes the internal canal that connects the VULVA to the CERVIX. This CERVIX connects the UTERUS (womb) to the VAGINA and functions like a door to the UTERUS.

In addition, the VAGINA cleans itself! It produces a discharge, a white fluid that serves to clean and keep the VAGINA moist. This discharge protects your VAGINA from unwanted bacteria!

DISCHARGE protects your VAGINA from unwanted bacteria. The first time you will notice DISCHARGE (probably in your underwear) will be approximately 6-12 months before your first menstruation (also known as MENARCHE). This is completely normal!

DISCHARGE changes throughout the cycle. As the egg grows, the DISCHARGE is stretchy and wet, potentially allowing sperm to reach the egg more easily. After you ovulate (also known as OVULATION), the DISCHARGE becomes dry and sticky.

AND: since the DISCHARGE has an acidic PH value, it can bleach your underwear! There is no reason to panic either. It is a good sign: your VAGINA and VULVA are fine!