Queefing challenges
MANY body positions can encourage the introduction of air into the vagina, one of the most common activities being sex. And when this happens and the air expulses from the vagina, it can give off some not-so-sexy noises that could be mistaken for flatulence.
“Queefing occurs when the vagina traps air when the penis exits, and expulses it as the penis is being re-inserted inside the vagina or as you change position,” said obstetrician-gynaecologist at Gynae Associates, Dr Daryl Daley.
He explained that queefing is quite normal and can happen to any woman; however, it may happen more frequently in women whose vaginas are more capacious or relaxed, for example in the case of women who are very sexually excited.
Sex therapist Dr Sydney McGill said that while it is quite natural, queefing — which is also referred to as vaginal flatulence — has caused many awkward sexual engagements as the sound mimics a person passing wind.
“There is absolutely nothing for you to feel embarrassed about if this happens, because especially with vigorous thrusting, it is quite likely that the vaginal tract will also hold or trap some air and it will most certainly be released afterwards; so it has nothing at all to do with the rectum. It’s really like pumping air into a balloon then letting the air out,” Dr McGill said.
He explained that not just the penis, but your finger imitating the same motion as the penis can cause the occurrence. The same thing can happen with the use of sex toys such as dildos. Some positions also increase the possibility of queefing because air pockets form more easily.
Dr McGill added that queefing is more likely to affect women who have recently given birth, who engage in certain exercises such as stretches, sit-ups and yoga, and those who have a longer vaginal canal.
He advised that there is no known way to prevent queefing, and trying to reduce the possibility of it happening could make sex boring. He said you shouldn’t be too concerned about it if you are with someone you love, and who is mature enough to understand it.
However, while admitting that queefing is completely natural and should not be cause for alarm, he recommends going to see your gynaecologist if queefing is consistent and is accompanied by abdominal pains. He said this is simply a precautionary measure to investigate whether there may be any existing or brewing medical condition that requires treatment.
