Dutch Campaigners Introduce New Word for Labia to Reduce Body Shaming

Campaigners in the Netherlands have introduced a new Dutch-language word for labia, part of an effort they say is aimed at reducing body shaming and promoting greater sex positivity among women.

The push for new terminology reflects a broader effort by advocates to address gaps or stigmas they see in existing language used to describe female anatomy, with organizers hoping wider adoption of the new word could help normalize open discussion of the subject.

Goals of the campaign

Campaigners have framed the initiative around helping women "feel seen," suggesting that existing terminology has in some cases contributed to discomfort or shame around discussing this part of female anatomy.

The effort is part of a wider pattern in various countries of language campaigns aimed at addressing body image and sexual health communication, with proponents arguing that clearer, less stigmatized vocabulary can support more open conversations about women's bodies and sexual health.

It remains to be seen how widely the new word will be adopted in everyday Dutch usage, or whether it will be incorporated into educational or medical contexts going forward.