At this point if you haven’t seen Barbie, literally run to your closest theater because what the heck else are you doing. Barbie debuted July 20, and has broken box office records in its first weeks. The film explores the idea that the Barbie doll was created to teach little girls that they could be anything they wanted to be when they grew up; and they didn’t just have to play with dolls that turned them into the role of mom. In 2023 Barbieland, the Barbies believe that they have transformed the world through this ideal — that because little girls grew up playing with Barbie, sexism is gone and women are truly equal. Throughout the movie, Barbie learns that this is certainly not the case, and the complicated experience of womanhood is unveiled. 

Spoilers ahead:

Despite the inequality, ultimately Barbie trades life in Barbieland to live in the real world and become a human. The movie closes as Barbie enters the gynecologist’s office for the first time, excited to see her doctor. 

Greta Gerwig explained to USA Today that there was a double intention behind this final scene,

“I knew I wanted to end on a mic drop kind of joke, but I also find it very emotional. When I was a teenage girl, I remember growing up and being embarrassed about my body, and just feeling ashamed in a way that I couldn't even describe. It felt like everything had to be hidden…

And then to see Margot as Barbie, with this big old smile on her face, saying what she says at the end with such happiness and joy,” Gerwig continues. “I was like – if I can give girls that feeling of, 'Barbie does it, too' – that’s both funny and emotional. There are so many things like that throughout the movie. It was always about looking for the levity and the heart.”

Claps for Greta. We couldn’t agree more. On the note of both levity and genuine from-the-heart advice, here is exactly what we think Barbie needs to know about her new vagina. 

PS: Barbie, check out our advice for everything you need to know about your first gynecologist appointment. Plus, this list can also be used for any girl coming-of-age.

1. It’s technically a vulva, not a vagina.

The vulva refers to the entire genitalia, (clitoris, labia minora, labia majora, vagina) whereas the vagina is specifically the internal canal. 

2. You will (probably) bleed every month

After puberty, most vaginas bleed every month, unless you’re pregnant! This is your period, and the shedding of our uterine lining signifies that you’re not pregnant. 

3. You will discharge much more frequently

Say it with me Barbie: Discharge. Is. Normal. If you want to understand your discharge better, check out this article!

4. Please get in the habit of peeing after sex

Peeing after sex will flush out any unwanted bacteria and prevent you from getting a UTI. Trust us, you want to avoid those. UTIs, sadly, are a part of having a vagina, so check out this article that tells you everything you need to know about your first UTI.

5. If you’re not trying to get pregnant with a baby Barbie, birth control is key for that, chat more about the best type for you with your gynecologist 

Your gynecologist can help walk you through your options: pills, condoms, IUDs, arm implants, and more! 

6. You should change your clothes after rollerblading, beach yoga, or any sweaty physical activity

This will help prevent yeast infections. Yeast infections happen when the pH of your vagina is out of whack. They can make you feel itchy and be super uncomfy.

7. And don’t hang out in a wet bikini 

More yeast infection prevention, take it from us.

8. You’re going to grow hair down there

Hair is normal — you can keep it, shave it, wax it, laser it, or shape it! 

9. And it’s also going to emit smells sometimes

This can happen when you have a vaginal infection, sexually transmitted infection, or sometimes when things are just a little off. 

10. And sounds

Sometimes you might queef — after sex or physical activity. This too is so normal. 

11. The clit is magic

Add ‘vibrator’ to your shopping list.