Genital anatomy
On this page we look at 'sex anatomy'. It's important to remember that all genitals are different, and while some people's genitals might align with the presentations below, human beings and our bodies are diverse - so there will always be natural variations with all parts of our bodies. Some people are born with bodies that don't fit typical ideas of 'female' or 'male' anatomy. These people may be intersex.
Intersex variations can affect genitals, internal organs, hormones, or chromosomes. For example, someone might have genitals that look similar to what is usually described as a vulva or a penis, look different from both, or have a mix of characteristics.
Being intersex is a natural part of human diversity. Intersex people are healthy, normal, and deserve the same respect and bodily autonomy as everyone else.
Because bodies are so diverse, not everyone will see themselves reflected exactly in the descriptions below.
The vulva & vagina
As we like to tell anyone who will listen, the proper name for the external female genitalia is the vulva/werewere.
The vagina is the tube thatleads from the pututana tara (vaginal opening) to theuterus.
The hymen is a collar of tissue attached to the vaginal wall just inside the vaginal opening - it's not a 'seal' across the vagina. Read more here.
The penis and testes
The penis consists of the shaft, glans (head) and foreskin (unless someone has been circumcised, which is where the foreskin is removed). The tube inside the penis is called the urethra, which carries urine from the bladder to outside the body.
Just like other body parts, all penises are naturally diverse. Media, including porn, tries to tell us that having a large penis is the most desirable - but it's important to challenge this and remember that all bodies are good bodies.
Just like other body parts, all penises are naturally diverse. Media, including porn, tries to tell us that having a large penis is the most desirable - but it's important to challenge this and remember that all bodies are good bodies.
Erections usually go away on their own after a while, or after ejaculation. This is a normal and healthy process.
Ejaculation is when semen (a fluid that contains sperm cells) comes out of the penis through the small opening at the tip. This often happens during sexual activity, but not always.
Male circumcision
Circumcision is a surgical procedure where the foreskin is removed. The foreskin is the fold of skin that naturally covers and protects the head, or tip, of the penis.
People have different views about circumcision. These views may be influenced by cultural traditions, religious beliefs, family practices or personal values.
Routine circumcision is not medically required for most children. Sometimes circumcision may be recommended for a medical reason, such as scarring of the foreskin, repeated infections, or a foreskin problem that has not improved with other treatment.
Circumcision is not risk-free. Because it is surgery, possible complications include pain, bleeding, infection, swelling, problems with healing, or the need for further treatment.
In babies and young children, the foreskin is usually attached to the head of the penis and cannot be pulled back. This is normal. The foreskin gradually separates naturally over time. Some children can retract, or pull back, their foreskin earlier than others. Many will not be able to fully retract it until later childhood or puberty.
The foreskin should never be forced back. Forcing it can cause pain, bleeding, tearing, scarring and later problems with retraction.
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
Sometimes incorrectly referred to as female circumcision, female genital mutilation is a term used by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to describe procedures that damage or remove parts of the external female genitals for cultural or other non-medical reasons.
FGM is not a medical treatment and has no health benefits. It is recognised around the world as a serious violation of human rights. It is based on gender inequality and is an extreme form of discrimination against girls and women.
FGM is almost always carried out on children and young people, which means it also violates children's rights. It can cause serious physical and emotional harm and goes against a person's right to health, safety, and control over their own body. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.
You might hear other names used for FGM such as female genital cutting (FGC) or female circumcision. The term 'female circumcision' is misleading and inaccruate, and it is not used in healthcare settings. Please see this site for more information.