Queefing. You’ve probably heard the term, or maybe you’ve heard someone call it a pussy fart or a vagina fart but what is a queef, really? Whether it happens during sex, yoga, or even when you stand up after stretching, that unexpected sound can leave you feeling embarrassed. But here’s the truth: you are absolutely not alone.
Let’s break it all down, but let’s also remember that queefing is completely natural, and there’s no reason to feel ashamed.
What Is Queefing?
So, what is queefing, exactly? At its simplest, queefing is air escaping from the vagina. It’s not a fart, even though it may sound similar, and it’s definitely not a sign that anything is wrong with your body.
Our bodies make noises. They move, stretch, grip, and release. When air gets trapped inside the vaginal canal and then shifts or is pushed out, it creates that little “pffft” sound we call a queef. That’s literally it.
What Causes Queefing?
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Sex or penetration: During penetrative sex (with a penis, toys, or even fingers), air often gets pushed into the vagina. When the air comes back out, it might result in a queef. Certain positions (like doggy style), might result in queefing more often than others because they allow for air to enter the vagina more easily.
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Exercise or stretching: Movements that open and close the hips or pelvic floor, like yoga, pilates, or certain workouts, can allow air to enter the vagina and later escape.
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Position changes: Standing up after sitting, lying down, or stretching can shift air that’s already inside the vaginal canal.
The important thing to know is that queefing is completely normal and harmless.
Why Queefing Can Feel Embarrassing
A lot of the shame around queefing comes from harmful myths, especially the idea that a vagina should be “tight” for someone else’s pleasure. This false narrative makes people think that if a queef happens, it somehow means the vagina isn’t “tight enough.”
Here’s the truth: tightness doesn’t define you or your pleasure. A queef doesn’t say anything about your body, your sex life, or your desirability. Toss that outdated belief right into the trash where it belongs.
How to Stop Queefing (If You Want To)
First things first: you don’t actually need to “fix” queefing because it isn’t a problem. But if you want to reduce the frequency, here are a few tips:
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Adjust positions during sex: Positions that allow less air to enter, like spooning, may reduce queefing.
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Engage the pelvic floor: Gentle kegel exercises can help you feel more in control of the muscles around the vaginal canal.
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Slow down during movement: In yoga or exercise, slower transitions may prevent air from getting trapped.
Remember, though, that even with these adjustments, queefing is normal and may still happen from time to time, and that’s perfectly okay.
Reframing the Conversation
Like burps or farts, queefing is just another sound your body makes (except queefs are even more innocuous because they don’t smell!). The discomfort often comes from a lack of education and the cultural tendency to make us feel ashamed of natural bodily functions.
Instead, think of it as your body being functional and healthy. The more we normalize conversations around things like queefing, the easier it becomes to let go of unnecessary shame. If your partner makes you feel embarrassed about queefing, perhaps it’s time to consider finding a new partner.
Embracing the Sound
The next time you experience a queef:
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Smile: because your body is doing exactly what it’s designed to do.
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Laugh: humor makes it easier to shake off embarrassment.
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Breathe: it’s just air leaving the body.
Your body is amazing, sounds and all. And queefing? It’s just another perfectly human, perfectly normal part of having a vagina.
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