Question: I'm an eighteen year old, and I've been looking at my genitals in the mirror lately. I noticed I can't seem to find an actual vaginal opening. I can see my clitoris, my labia, and everything, but no hole other than my urethra. There is a lot of pink tissue where I think the opening should be.

I have normal periods, and have worn tampons before, though I could not put them in by looking in a mirror. I just had to wiggle them around and push at the same time, and eventually they went in. There wasn't any pain involved with inserting the tampons, so I'm not too worried, just kind of curious as to why I can never seem to actually see my vaginal opening. I've looked all over the web, and haven't been able to find anything about not seeing the vaginal opening, so I was hoping you could help.

Answer: I have seen vulvae similar to your own. Your hymen may look imperforated but it will open up if something is pressed against it.

I recommend you lubricate a finger, with saliva if nothing else is available, and slip it inside your vagina. Do this while looking at your vulva in a mirror, or insert your finger by feel, then have a look with a mirror. You can also do the same with a lubricated tampon applicator. Insert the applicator by feel, then observe it and your vulva with a mirror.

If the opening in your hymen is indeed small, you may want to gently and slowly stretch it prior to having intercourse with a partner. This may save you some pain or discomfort. If your hymen is thick and inelastic, you may need a doctor to surgically remove it. It is wise to continue your explorations. Have a look at the pages about Virginity in the Intercourse section for more information.

There is a detailed article titled Locating Your Vagina that may be of help.