Dutch dictionary adds neutral term for labia to replace ‘shame lips’

The leading Dutch dictionary, Dikke van Dale, has added the term ‘vulvalippen’ to its upcoming online edition as an alternative to the traditional word for labia, ‘schaamlippen’. The existing term, which translates literally to ‘shame lips’, has been criticized by activists for being stigmatizing and outdated.

The change follows the ‘Schaamteloos’ campaign, which sought to replace language that links women’s anatomy to shame with neutral, anatomically correct terminology. Campaign founders, including Shari Klein, argue that language shapes self-perception and that moving away from judgmental terms is essential for sex positivity and reducing body shaming.

The decision follows years of advocacy inspired by the late sexology professor Ellen Laan. While similar efforts to update anatomical language have been attempted in other countries, such as Germany and Sweden, the inclusion of ‘vulvalippen’ in a major Dutch dictionary is viewed by feminist groups like Dolle Mina as a significant milestone for linguistic and social change.