The Dutch dictionary Dikke van Dale, one of the most widely used in the Netherlands, is set to include a new term for the labia, "vulvalippen," in its upcoming online edition. This will be added alongside the traditional term "schaamlippen" (shame lips). The change is part of a growing movement in Europe to replace language that carries stigma or judgment when discussing women's bodies, sexuality, and health. Activists argue that language influences self-perception, and using more neutral, scientifically accurate terms can help reduce feelings of shame and stigma. The campaign to change such language is led by groups like Schaamteloos and Dolle Mina, which advocate for more sex-positive and body-affirming language. They aim to replace terms that include "schaam" (shame), such as "schaamlippen," "schaam haar" (shame hair), and "schaam lice" (shame lice), with more neutral alternatives. Esther Van der Valk of Dolle Mina emphasized the importance of these changes in promoting a more positive and respectful understanding of women's bodies. Ton den Boon, editor of Dikke van Dale, said the inclusion of "vulvalippen" is justified due to its increasing use in media, education, and medical contexts. However, it remains uncertain whether the term will become widely adopted in everyday language. Similar efforts have taken place in other European countries. In Germany, journalists Gunda Windmüller and Mithu Sanyal started a petition in 2018 to replace "Shamlippen" with "Vulvalippen," inspired by a gynaecologist’s observations about the stigma women often associate with their bodies. While the term has not yet been added to a German dictionary, it is now used in school materials and women’s magazines. In Sweden, a new term "slidkrans" (vaginal corona) was added to an academic dictionary in 2009 after a campaign by the association for sexuality education, RFSU. The previous term, "mödomshinna" (maidenhood skin), was seen as inaccurate and reinforced outdated myths about virginity. In the UK, feminist activist Nicola Denson-Elliott has campaigned to replace "hysterectomy" with "uterectomy," arguing that the former term is linked to the outdated concept of "hysteria" and reflects a history of medical sexism. Linguists and medical professionals have called for careful consideration when introducing new terms, emphasizing the need for clarity and understanding. Obstetrician Dr. Brooke Vandermolen criticized terms like "incompetent cervix" and "failure to progress," which can make women feel blamed for medical issues. While some changes have been made, traditional terms are still in use, and discussions about the language used to describe women’s bodies continue to be important. The Royal College of Midwives has provided alternative phrases, but some traditional terms still cause distress, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue on this topic.