As a part of our very special, Volume II: Music Issue, we talked to singer-songwriter and unapologetic vagina enthusiast, Tove Lo, about what her vagina tattoo means to her and why more woman should be proud of their lady parts.

“Excuse me, what’s that symbol on your jacket?”

“A vagina,” I said.

“Oh, come on, my wife’s right here.”

“Well, she has one, so hopefully she’s not offended.”

My whole crew (of two girls and eight dudes) and I walked away smiling, with my vagina logo on the backs of our tour jackets. It’s the same symbol I, along with many of our fans, have tattooed on my arm. To some people, like that couple, “showing off” the vagina in any way is seen as something shocking and scandalous.

I don't know if it's their religious or cultural beliefs that make them think it’s something to be ashamed of, but I know for sure I don’t feel that way: You should be proud of your vagina — it's a cool and positive part of you! Being open and free about the body and self-love (the way I am) can be provocative — but that doesn’t mean that it's bad or dangerous.

My vagina tattoo reminds me not to make myself smaller, which is often what’s expected of women. To be loud is to be seen as being a troublemaker. As girls, we’re often not encouraged to speak up. I’m allowed to claim my space. The symbol, which is also on the cover of my album Lady Wood, is a reminder to go for the things that scare you but also give you a rush. People tell me all the time that I’m a chick with balls. It’s supposed to be a compliment, but really it’s insulting. Women don’t need balls to be brave. Our vaginas will do just fine.

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