The labia minora are an anatomical part of the vulva in women.

Position. Present only in women, the labia minora surround the vestibule of the vagina, comprising the urinary meatus, the opening of the vagina, as well as the vestibular glands. The vestibule of the vagina is surrounded on both sides by the labia majora and labia minora. Located inside the labia majora, the labia minora start at the level of the clitoris and extend laterally and backwards for several centimeters (1) (2).

Structure. The labia minora are made up of skin folds devoid of fat and hair.

• On the posterior part, the labia minora meet to form the frenulum of the lips of the vulva.
• On the anterior part, each small lip divides into two skin folds: a lower fold and an upper fold. The first forms the frenulum of the clitoris, while the second forms the foreskin, or glans of the clitoris (1) (2).

Innervation. The deep and superficial branches coming from the perineal nerve innervate the labia minora (3).

Protective role. The labia minora protect the ureter, the vagina and the clitoris against the outside environment.

Pathologies affecting the labia minora are often associated with vulvar pathologies such as dermatoses, that is to say affections of the skin and mucous membranes.

Vulvite. This condition corresponds to inflammation of the vulva, which can manifest itself in the labia minora. It manifests itself by irritation, itching and pain. Their causes are varied but can be associated with different pathologies or infections.

Lichen scléreux vulvaire. This condition corresponds to a modification of the skin and the mucous membrane at the level of the vulva. The skin takes on a pale, fragile appearance, then thickens, hardens and becomes sclerotic. Other associated symptoms may occur such as painful cracks, itching, as well as discomfort during sex. The exact cause of this pathology remains undefined today. (4)

Condyloma. Condylomas, or genital warts, are benign external lesions on the genitals, and in particular on the labia minora. Transmitted by the sexual route, they appear following a viral infection by the human papillomavirus. (5)

Medical treatment. Depending on the pathology diagnosed, certain drugs may be prescribed. In the case of lichen sclerosus, treatment is based on the local use of a cortisone-based cream.4 In the case of a condyloma, immunomodulatory treatment in the form of a cream may also be prescribed.

Chemical treatment. In the case of condyloma, chemical treatments can be used. These treatments consist in particular of the application of podophyllin by the doctor or of podophyllotoxin by the patient.

Surgical treatment. In some cases of condyloma, surgical or physical treatment may be necessary. Cryotherapy can in particular be practiced.

Dermatological or gynecological examination. A dermatological or gynecological examination is carried out to define the affection at the level of the labia minora.

Monitoring and follow-up. In the case of vulvar lichen sclerosus or condyloma, regular follow-up is established with the patients. (4)

Pap smear. It consists of taking cells from the upper level of the vagina, ectocervix and endocervix.

Labiaplasty is an intimate surgical operation consisting of a reduction of the labia minora. Some patients experience aesthetic or physical discomfort and wish to reduce the size of the labia minora (5).