The leading Dutch dictionary, Dikke van Dale, has agreed to include a new term for the labia in its upcoming online edition, responding to growing calls to eliminate stigmatizing medical and everyday language around women's bodies. The new word, "vulvalippen" (vulva lips), will appear alongside the traditional Dutch term "schaamlippen," which literally translates to "shame lips."
Campaigners have long criticized traditional terms containing "schaam" (shame) for attaching negative connotations to female anatomy. Shari Klein, a co-founder of the Schaamteloos (Shameless) campaign, emphasized that language shapes how individuals view themselves, making anatomically accurate and neutral vocabulary essential. Dictionary editor Ton den Boon explained that adding "vulvalippen" was justified because the term has gained traction in news media, biology textbooks, medical leaflets, and even veterinary medicine.
The move reflects a broader European movement seeking to reform linguistic conventions related to women's health and sexuality. In Sweden, sexuality educators successfully campaigned to replace the word for hymen—previously "mödomshinna" (virginity membrane)—with "slidkrans" (vaginal corona) to dispel myths about virginity. Similarly, German activists have pushed to replace "Schamlippen" with "Vulvalippen," while UK campaigners and healthcare professionals are advocating against distressing medical terms such as "hysterectomy" or "incompetent cervix."
While critics argue that changing terminology alone cannot dismantle deep-seated social taboos, advocates view dictionary recognition as a critical milestone. Campaigners in the Netherlands are now urging doctors, healthcare providers, and public officials to adopt "vulvalippen" in consultations and official literature, hoping the shift will encourage more open, stigma-free discussions about reproductive health.