Advancing Female Sexual & Reproductive Knowledge — Together

Female sexual and reproductive knowledge remains one of the most under-developed areas in modern science. For centuries, women’s bodies, experiences, and biological realities have been misunderstood, ignored, or generalized from male-based research models. The Vagina Institute exists to help change that — through transparent, ethical, participant-driven online research.

Your participation plays a vital role in expanding collective knowledge and shaping a future where female sexual and reproductive systems are studied with the depth, respect, and scientific rigor they deserve.

Why Female Sexual & Reproductive Knowledge Matters

Despite major advances in medicine and technology, substantial gaps remain in our collective understanding of:

• Vaginal and vulvar function across different life stages

• Hormonal variation and its influence on physical and sexual experience

• Menstruation, contraception, menopause, and fertility knowledge

• Intimate care products and their interaction with the vaginal microbiome

• Cultural, environmental, and lifestyle influences on sexual function and anatomy

Many existing studies rely on outdated assumptions, limited datasets, or exclude diverse bodies and lived experiences altogether. Without inclusive, large-scale participation, inaccurate narratives persist — influencing education, product development, clinical guidance, and public discourse.

By participating, you help build evidence-based knowledge grounded in real-world female experiences rather than speculation or historical bias.

Who Can Participate?

Participation is open to a wide range of individuals, including but not limited to:

• Adults of all ages

• Women

• Individuals from all cultural, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds

• Those with or without diagnosed conditions

You do not need scientific training or prior research experience. Lived experience is a critical source of data and insight.

How You Can Participate — From Home

All participation is remote and online, allowing you to contribute safely, privately, and independently from anywhere in the world.

Participation typically includes:

• Completing anonymous or confidential research surveys

• Answering questions related to anatomy, biology, lifestyle, experiences, or product use

• Taking part in longitudinal studies (optional) that explore patterns and changes over time

Most surveys take 5–20 minutes and can be completed on a phone, tablet, or computer.

Privacy, Ethics & Transparency

Topics related to sexual and reproductive systems are deeply personal, and participant trust is fundamental to meaningful research.

• Participation is always voluntary

• Surveys are anonymous or clearly labeled if identifiable data is required

• Some studies or surveys may be commissioned, requested, or supported by third parties, including academic groups, publishers, or commercial organizations

• Third-party involvement, when present, is disclosed at the start of each study

• No individual-level data is sold or shared; only aggregated, non-identifiable results are used

• Research findings may be used in online publications, educational resources, books, reports, or statistical insights as a means of supporting the Institute’s research, educational, and operational efforts

• Data is never used for targeted advertising, profiling, or participant manipulation

All research conducted or published by the Vagina Institute adheres to ethical research principles, transparency in methodology, and respect for participant autonomy. Participants may choose whether or not to take part in any study, regardless of funding or origin.

Why Your Contribution Matters

Each response helps to:

• Expand scientific knowledge of female anatomy, sexuality and sexual function

• Correct outdated or incomplete narratives

• Inform education, product evaluation, and evidence-based decision-making

• Ensure research reflects real diversity rather than narrow statistical averages

Broad participation strengthens research validity and ensures that future knowledge reflects reality, not assumptions.

Ready to Participate?

You can begin immediately by exploring our current studies and surveys.

👉 [Participate in a Study or Survey]

New research initiatives are added regularly. You may participate once or return whenever a topic aligns with your experience or interest.

Not Ready Yet?

You can still support the advancement of female sexual and reproductive knowledge by:

• Sharing research opportunities with others

• Exploring published findings

• Submitting research questions or topic suggestions

• Following the Institute’s work as it evolves

Knowledge grows through participation — and meaningful progress begins when real experiences are included.