(093) “Vagina” is Not a Bad Word: Historical and Contemporary Censorship of the Word “Vagina”

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The first recorded use of the word “vagina” was in 1680. It is the only contemporary anatomic term for the female reproductive canal and has no anatomically accurate substitute. For the last 350 years, use of the word has been intentionally avoided in media, print, and society in general. Objective We sought to characterize instances of “vagina” censorship to better understand perceptions and behaviors surrounding the word “vagina.” Methods An internet and relevant database (PubMed, Academic OneFile, Proquest, Health Business Elite, etc.) search was conducted for “vagina, “censor,” and related wildcard terms. Search results were filtered by three independent reviewers for relevance. Related articles were summarized and reviewed for common themes. Results Examples of censorship of the word “vagina” were compiled in Table 1, and several themes were identified: (1) Policies surrounding censorship are unclear. Affected parties typically receive generic responses – for instance, that content “does not comply” with standards. Censoring parties oftentimes will not explicitly identify language or elements of concern. (2) Policies appear highly variable. In advertisements for similar products on the same social media platforms, some companies successfully use the word “vagina” while others are barred, highlighting puzzling inconsistencies. (3) Another related theme that emerges is differing standards between references to male and female genitalia. For example, “penis” and associated references were often allowed by the same television shows that mandated censorship or omission of “vagina.” (4) Objections often call the use of “vagina” overtly sexual, profane, or unprofessional. However, “vagina” refers to an anatomical term for which there is no suitable, biologically accurate alternative. Censorship of the word forces inaccurate, over-generalized, ambiguous references to female genitalia. Conclusions The word “vagina” is censored across multiple platforms: print, film and television, social media, politics, education, and more. It has been censored for centuries and continues to be today. This erects barriers to care for women. Patients increasingly turn to the internet and other media platforms as accessible sources of high-quality health information about their bodies. Pervasive censorship of the word “vagina” perpetuates a culture of ignorance and shame about women’s bodies. Until we normalize the term “vagina,” we cannot make progress on women’s pelvic health. Disclosure No