Can you prevent vaginal farts? These 5 tips might help

Have you ever experienced vaginal farts? It may seem strange to pass air from your vagina, but it’s actually a completely natural occurrence. Vaginal farts, also known as queefing or vaginal flatulence, are caused by trapped air inside the vagina. Unlike gas released from the rectum during digestion, these farts are simply air that enters the vagina from outside the body. While they are normal, many women find them embarrassing and seek ways to prevent them.

We reached out to Dr. Suhasini Inamdar, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Bengaluru, to understand if it’s possible to control vaginal farts.

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According to Dr. Inamdar, “Vaginal flatulence is a natural occurrence where trapped air is expelled from the vagina, especially during physical activity or sexual intercourse. While it is not a cause for medical concern, some people may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about it. Here are some tips on how to manage and reduce queefing.”

Causes of Vaginal Farts

Before we delve into ways to prevent them, let’s explore some common reasons why vaginal farts may occur:

1. Sexual Activity or Inserting Objects into the Vagina

During sexual intercourse or when objects like sex toys are inserted into the vagina, air can become trapped and be expelled during movement. Vaginal flatulence can also happen during a pelvic exam. Remember, whenever it happens and you feel embarrassed, just laugh it off and remember that it’s completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of.

2. Stretching or Exercise

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Engaging in physical activities that involve stretching or movement of the pelvic muscles can cause air to become trapped in the vagina. This air is then released with further movement. Interestingly, yoga has been found to increase the likelihood of vaginal farts when compared to other forms of exercise.

3. Pregnancy

Although the exact reason for vaginal farts during pregnancy is unknown, women may experience an increase in queefs, especially after giving birth when the pelvic floor muscles may be weaker.

4. Vaginal Fistulas

Vaginal farts caused by vaginal fistulas are extremely rare. A vaginal fistula is an abnormal opening that connects the vagina to other organs such as the bladder, colon, or rectum. This connection can allow air to escape from the rectum and pass through the vagina. However, it’s important to note that this is a rare occurrence.

5. Using Tampons or Menstrual Cups

Certain feminine hygiene products, such as tampons, diaphragms, and menstrual cups, can force air into the vagina when inserted. This can lead to vaginal farts. You might even hear a sound that resembles flatulence when removing these products.

Can Vaginal Farts Be Prevented?

While it may not always be possible to prevent vaginal flatulence completely, there are some tips that can help reduce the frequency of queefing:

1. Learn About Your Pelvic Floor

Understanding the muscles in your pelvic area and how they interact with the rest of your body can help you manage and reduce queefing. Pelvic floor exercises, breathing techniques, and pressure management can be useful in strengthening and relaxing the pelvic muscles.

2. Consult a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

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A specialist can assess the strength of your pelvic floor muscles and identify any tightness that may contribute to queefing. They can guide you with specific exercises and techniques tailored to your needs.

3. Pay Attention to Your Bowel Movements

Having soft stools and good bowel movement techniques can help reduce pressure in the pelvic area, which may contribute to vaginal flatulence.

4. Practice Kegels

Incorporating kegel exercises into your daily routine can strengthen the muscles in your pelvic floor. This is an effective method to reduce the occurrence of vaginal farts.

5. Experiment with Different Sex Positions

Certain sex positions, such as doggy style, can increase the likelihood of queefing. Exploring different types of sex positions can help prevent vaginal farts.

When to See a Doctor for Vaginal Farts?

Dr. Inamdar advises, “If you experience vaginal flatulence outside of sexual activity or physical exercise, or if it is accompanied by pain or discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical advice. A doctor can diagnose any underlying conditions that may be causing queefing, such as a vaginal fistula.”

Takeaway

Vaginal flatulence is a natural occurrence and is not a cause for concern. However, if it causes discomfort or embarrassment, the above tips can be helpful in managing and reducing queefing. Always consult a medical professional if you have concerns or experience queefing outside of sexual activity or physical exercise.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health