Queefing: what is it, and should you be worried about this vaginal flatulence?

Sexual intercourse isn’t as sexy, smooth, or as synchronised as you’d expect it to be. In fact, if you have a vagina, and you're a beginner to all things sex, you might be surprised at the weird ways your body reacts to this activity.

One reaction you should probably be prepared for, is queefing.

Queefing: an introduction

Queefing, or vaginal flatulence, is when trapped air in the vagina gets released during penetration by a penis or a sex toy. In the process, it can create a loud, gnarly noise that sounds a lot like anal flatulence. In reality, queefing is nothing like farting because it doesn’t have any odour, and it’s not caused by bacteria.

In the heat of the moment, vaginal flatulence can be incredibly embarrassing and awkward, especially if you’ve never experienced it before. But you'll be glad to know that it's actually a very normal and common phenomenon that happens to a majority of people with female genitalia—so there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Dr. Sarah Yamaguchi of DTLA Gynecology in Los Angeles tells Women’s Health:

Queefing happens when air escapes from the vagina suddenly with enough volume to notice it. A little bit of air can get pushed into the vagina, and it gets pushed out all at once sometimes.

There are a multitude of actions that could result in queefing during intercourse. Experts say that it's likely to happen in sex positions where you are being penetrated from behind, like doggy style. Additionally, individuals who have lost weight or just given birth may experience it more frequently. However, Dr. Yamaguchi points out that your ability to queef has nothing to do with the size or tightness of your vaginal cave. She adds:

Please don't think it's because your vagina is 'too big' or 'too loose.'

Should you be worried about it?

If you happen to queef in the middle of a steamy sex session, there is no need to panic. Sex can be hot and sexy, but it can also be funny and awkward, so laugh it off and carry on.

Should you notice a foul odour and some dischargealong with your queef, then see a professional as soon as possible!

Read more:

⋙ The 3 sex positions that 18-34 year-olds can't get enough of

⋙ Here's how to do the intriguing 'hammock' sex position

Sources used:

Volonté:I QUEEFED DURING OUR FIRST HOOKUP – CAN I GO DIE NOW?

Cleveland Clinic: Vaginal Gas