Queefing: Why It’s Totally Normal and Nothing to Be Embarrassed About

Picture the scene: you’re caught up in a passionate moment with your partner, everything’s going perfectly, and the chemistry is spot on. Then, out of the blue – frraaaaapppt! A noise that sounds suspiciously like a fart, but you know it’s coming from down there. Cue a hot flush of embarrassment as you wonder if your partner thinks you’ve let one slip.

Here’s the thing – queefing is nothing to feel self-conscious about. It’s a natural part of being human, and it happens to plenty of us. So let’s talk about what’s going on when it happens and why it’s really not worth losing your cool over.

A queef, or vaginal fart, is simply trapped air being released from the vagina, creating a sound that can resemble a regular fart. While it might feel a bit awkward whilst you’re in a clinch, it’s a completely normal result of certain activities that cause air to become trapped in this area. So why does it happen, and when is it most likely?

The vagina, by its very structure, can easily trap air during certain movements or activities. When pressure is applied, the air is pushed out, making that unmistakable sound. This can happen during sex, exercise, or even something as simple as sitting cross-legged. Essentially, anything that forces air into this space can set off a queef.

Penetrative sex is one of the most common culprits. The rhythmic, back-and-forth movements can work a bit like a pump, introducing air into the vagina. Similarly, using insertable sex toys, such as dildos or sex machines, can produce the same effect.

Queefing can happen to anyone with a vagina, regardless of age or medical history. However, some women may be more prone to queefing, such as those who’ve given birth vaginally, those dealing with urinary incontinence, or anyone with a weakened pelvic floor. A strong pelvic floor can help minimise queefing, which is where exercises like Pilates or Kegels come in handy to tone and strengthen the area.

Queefing, on the other hand, has nothing to do with digestion. It happens when air from outside gets trapped in the vagina – often during sex, exercise, or certain types of movement that open up the vagina – and is then released. Unlike intestinal farts, queefing is odourless because the air hasn’t been created or altered by your body.

That said, there is a subtle connection between queefing and your lower body’s overall function. For example, chronic constipation can increase the likelihood of queefing. Why? Because frequent straining to pass hard stools can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a key role in supporting the organs in your pelvis, and when they’re weakened, queefing can happen more often.

If you’re regularly constipated, it’s worth making a few changes to support both your digestive and pelvic health. Here are some simple tips:

• Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help keep things moving smoothly.
• Stay active: Regular physical activity not only benefits digestion but also strengthens your pelvic floor muscles.
• Speak to a professional: If constipation persists, consult your doctor to explore tailored solutions.

While vaginal and intestinal farts are fundamentally different, the indirect connection between pelvic and digestive health is worth keeping in mind. By taking a holistic approach to your wellbeing, you’ll feel more comfortable in your own skin – and remember, it’s all perfectly natural!

First things first: if a queef happens during a steamy session, there’s no need to stress. Intimate moments are rarely silent, and that’s part of what makes them special! Between sighs, laughter, and all those little body noises, it’s just part of the experience. And if your partner reacts poorly to something as normal as a queef, it might be worth re-evaluating their priorities… and perhaps your choice of partners.

That said, if you’re keen to minimise those unexpected noises, here are a few things you can try.

Let’s be honest: there’s no foolproof way to prevent queefing, just like you can’t always stop an intestinal fart. These things happen, especially when you’re relaxed and enjoying yourself. That said, a few habits might help reduce how often it happens.

A strong pelvic floor can help prevent queefing. To tone up the area, you could:

• Try Kegel exercises: These involve contracting and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles and can be done anytime, anywhere.
• Use Ben Wa balls: Also known as Kegel balls, they’re a gentle way to strengthen your pelvic muscles over time.
• Consider pelvic floor therapy: This can be particularly helpful after a vaginal birth and is often guided by a physical therapist.
  

Some positions – especially those involving deep penetration, like doggy style – are more likely to push air into the vagina. If queefing is a concern, try positions with slower or shallower movements instead.

That said, if those deep, passionate positions are your favourites, do you really want to give them up just to avoid a harmless sound? A little queef here and there is no reason to miss out on pleasure.

If a queef happens, treat it like the non-event it really is. Cracking a joke or making a lighthearted comment can dissolve any awkwardness and might even bring you closer to your partner. Moments like these show you’re comfortable with each other – no silly taboos getting in the way.

In the end, it’s better to embrace these noises for what they are: natural, sometimes unavoidable, and rarely as awkward as they might seem. What really matters is enjoying the moment and not letting a harmless little sound steal your joy or connection.

Here’s the truth: queefing is nothing to worry about, and – let’s be real – it happens to every woman at some point. Whether it’s a sign of shared pleasure or the result of an active lifestyle, it’s simply a natural part of having a vagina.

So, there’s no need to stress or feel embarrassed about it. Embrace it as one of the unique quirks of your body, and focus on enjoying your intimate moments or your time on the move.

And there you have it!