Vagina, Pussy, Vulva, Vag: Women's Names for Their Genitals are Differentially Associated with Sexual and Health Outcomes

Abstract

Feminist scholars have long emphasized the power of language in shaping women's feelings and behaviors towards their bodies, yet this proposition remains underexplored with regard to women’s genitals. This study examined the terms women use to name their genitals and their associations with genital attitudes, sexual pleasure, and genital health behaviors across both non-sexual and sexual contexts. A total of 475 women from the United States, representing diverse age groups, reported their most commonly used genital terms. We identified nine categories of genital naming: anatomical, vulgar, playful/childish, euphemisms, gender identity, clitoris, edible, nature, and receptacle. The results revealed that in non-sexual contexts 75% of participants used at least one anatomical term; however, euphemisms (14%) and playful/childish terms (15%) remained prevalent. Playful/childish terms were associated with a negative genital self-image, aspects of sexual pleasure, and genital health behaviors in non-sexual contexts, but had no such effect when used in sexual contexts. Vulgar terms such as "pussy" were linked to increased sexual pleasure, higher orgasm rates, and a higher desire for oral sex when used in sexual contexts. These findings provide preliminary evidence that the language women use to describe their genitals is significantly associated with various aspects of their health and well-being.