Interest in cosmetic vulvar surgery and perception of vulvar appearance.

[OBJECTIVE] The objective of the study was to determine whether reproductive-age women are more likely to perceive their vulva as abnormal compared with older-aged women.

[STUDY DESIGN] Women aged 18-44 years (group 1) and 45-72 years (group 2) completed a survey on demographics, grooming patterns, vulvar perceptions, and source of information about the vulva.

[RESULTS] There was no difference between group 1 and group 2 in how often women looked at their vulva or their perception of having a normal vulva (91% vs 93%, P = .76). Both groups were satisfied with the appearance of their vulva (81% vs 82%, P = .71). A higher percentage in group 2 would consider cosmetic surgery if cost were not an issue versus group 1 (15% vs 8%, P = .05).

[CONCLUSION] A woman's age does not have an impact on her perception of a normal vulva. The majority of women perceived their vulva to be normal and were satisfied with its appearance. However, older women are more interested in cosmetic vulvar surgery.