Dutch Dictionary Adds New Word for Labia, Reflecting Shift in Language Around Women's Bodies

The Dutch language is embracing a new, more neutral term for the labia, with the inclusion of "vulvalippen" (vulva lips) in the upcoming online edition of the prominent dictionary Dikke van Dale, alongside the traditional term "schaamlippen" (shame lips). This change reflects a broader international movement among campaigners to reform language used to describe women's bodies, sexuality, and health, aiming to eliminate terms perceived as misogynistic or judgmental.

Shari Klein, a founder of the Schaamteloos (shameless) campaign, emphasized the power of language in shaping self-perception. "It's crucial people have a more neutral, anatomically correct word – not a word that links to shame, whether consciously or sub-consciously," Klein stated. The inclusion of "vulvalippen" is seen by some as a sign that society is becoming more receptive to change and to promoting sex positivity and reducing body shaming.

The campaign's next objective is to encourage the adoption of "vulvalippen" by medical professionals and in public health information. Ton den Boon, the dictionary's editor, noted that the term's inclusion is justified by its increasing presence in media, educational texts, and medical contexts. Similar efforts have been observed in other European countries.

In Germany, a petition initiated in 2018 aimed to replace "Shamlippen" with "Vulvalippen." Gunda Windmüller, one of the petition's creators, was motivated by gynecologists' reports of the shame women experience discussing their bodies. While "Vulvalippen" has not yet been adopted by a German dictionary, Windmüller has noted its increasing use in conversations, schoolbooks, and magazines.

Sweden saw a similar linguistic shift in 2009 when a new term for "hymen" was introduced into the academic dictionary. The Association for Sexuality Education (RFSU) advocated for the change from "mödomshinna" (maidenhood skin or virginity membrane) to "slidkrans" (vaginal corona). The RFSU argued that the traditional term was anatomically inaccurate and perpetuated myths surrounding virginity. Sonja Ghaderi of the RFSU stated, "With a new word we can challenge the myths that seek to control women's sexuality and freedom." While "slidkrans" is used by healthcare professionals and in youth clinics, misinformation persists, highlighting the need to alter broader social constructs.

In the United Kingdom, a petition was launched to replace "hysterectomy" (surgical removal of the womb) with "uterectomy." Proponents argue that "hysterectomy" carries historical linguistic ties to "hysteria," a term once used to describe a supposed female affliction of excessive emotion. They advocate for a more anatomically precise term free from such associations, with the petition asserting that "Women deserve terminology that respects them."

However, linguistic researchers caution that the effectiveness of such changes depends on clarity and widespread understanding. Dr. Beth Malory, a linguistics researcher, questioned whether new terms like "uterectomy" would be readily understood and if simply describing the procedure, such as "removal of the womb," might be more effective. She stressed the importance of avoiding ambiguity and considering the entire linguistic system.

Malory also highlighted the problematic nature of terms like "incompetent cervix," which is used to describe cervical shortening that can lead to pregnancy complications. Women have reported feeling blamed by this terminology. Obstetrician Dr. Brooke Vandermolen expressed a similar sentiment, questioning the necessity of judgmental words and noting that even terms like "failure to progress" during labor are being re-evaluated.

While the Royal College of Midwives issued guidance in 2022 offering alternative phrases, Vandermolen noted that some traditional, distressing terms remain in use. She expressed hope that the linguistic changes in the Netherlands would spur further conversations in the UK and elsewhere about the impact of language on women's health and well-being.