The labia minora are two thin, hairless folds of skin lying inside the labia majora on either side of the vestibule. In front each splits to form the hood (prepuce) and frenulum of the clitoris. Behind, they meet at a small fold called the frenulum of the labia (fourchette).
| Location | Medial to the labia majora, bounding the vestibule |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Pudendal nerve (posterior labial and dorsal nerve of the clitoris); Ilioinguinal nerve |
| Blood Supply | External pudendal arteries (anterior labial branches); Internal pudendal artery (posterior labial branches) |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Enclose and protect the vestibule and the urethral and vaginal openings, and contribute to sexual sensation.
They are rich in blood vessels and nerve endings and swell during arousal. Their size and shape vary widely between individuals. The fourchette can tear in childbirth, and fusion of the labia minora (labial adhesions) is common in young girls with low oestrogen.
Fusion of the labia minora in prepubertal girls, usually harmless and responsive to oestrogen cream.
A tear of the posterior fourchette during childbirth or intercourse.
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