Lecture Notes

Let's begin by examining the female sexual anatomy. First, we will examine external female sex organs. The external female genitals are the mons pubis, the clitoris, the labia majora, and the labia minora. These structures are collectively known as the vulva. People often use the word vagina when they are actually referring to the vulva. The vagina is an interior structure that we will discuss later. The mons pubis is often referred to as the pubic mound. It is a pad of fatty tissue that covers the area of the pubic bone about six inches below the navel. There is a rich supply of nerve endings in the mons, which can produce pleasure when caressed. From the onset of puberty the mons is covered with pubic hair. The current practice of trimming and shaving pubic hair in America seems mainstream, but it's actually not a new practice. Many cultures for centuries have engaged in this practice for aesthetic or hygienic reasons, such as lack of access to clean water or avoidance of pubic lice. Additionally, many report increased genital sensitivity and partner satisfaction as a reason for pubic hair trimming or shaving now and in the past.