Censors wouldn’t allow the use of the word “vagina” in Grey’s Anatomy, but “penis” was OK

The irony of a medical TV show with the word “anatomy” in its title being unable to use an anatomical term for a sexual organ is wild, but true.

This was 2005, not 1955. Even more bizarre.

“And that’s why … That’s where the term ‘va-jay-jay’ came from. [Creator Shonda Rhimes] made up ‘va-jay-jay’ because standards and practices would not let us say ‘vagina.’ And Shonda’s argument was like, ‘We said “penis” in that episode 97 times. You can say “penis” 97 times but you can’t say “vagina”?’ “

Grey’s Anatomy: Ellen Pompeo Recalls Not Being Allowed to Say Vagina | PEOPLE.com

Maybe they should have called the show “Grey’s Va-jay-jay” lol. The standards and practices censors must have some goofy playbook to go by. I remember that word very early in school. It’s a medical term. What are they censoring”

Felt the urge to include a medical picture — censored, somewhat — just … because.

I’m pretty sure in 2020 you can now safely say “vagina” 97 times to go along with “penis.” You might even be able to use the word “pussy” because, well, it also refers to a cat.

The C-word is probably still out.