"I finally feel normal and I’m no longer ashamed"

“Growing up, I always hated the look of my vulva. It all started when I was 11 and my cousin and I were taking a bubble bath together. She pointed at my vulva horrified asking what was growing between my legs. At the age of 11 I had no idea what she was talking about because I thought it was normal. As a teenager I was very self conscious and never let a boy near me. At the age of 15 I researched surgery options and thought about a labiaplasty for the longest time. Isn’t that sad? I was even told as a virgin that your labia grow bigger from having sex. I was ashamed and confused. About a year ago I found The Vulva Gallery. It has changed my thoughts completely and I finally feel normal and I’m no longer ashamed. I love every inch of myself and I finally feel confident with my lovely partner."

– M, 21 years old, USA (she/they)