Let’s talk about queefs—because honestly, they deserve way more clarity and way less embarrassment. If you’ve ever been in the middle of a workout, yoga pose, or an intimate moment and heard an unexpected pfft, you might have found yourself wondering: What just happened? Well, let’s break it down.
The Science of a Queef
A queef, or vaginal flatulence, is the release of trapped air from the vagina. Unlike a fart, which is the result of gas produced in the digestive system, a queef is simply air escaping from the vaginal canal. The sound it makes? That’s just physics—air being forced through a small space. Totally normal, totally natural, and not a sign of anything wrong with your body.
Why Do Queefs Happen?
Queefs can happen for a variety of reasons, but the most common causes include:
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Sexual Activity – During penetration, fingers, toys, or a partner’s body can push air into the vaginal canal. When that air has to come out, a queef happens.
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Exercise & Movement – Certain physical activities, like yoga, pilates, or even stretching, can shift the pelvic floor muscles in a way that traps and then releases air.
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Postpartum Changes – If you’ve given birth, your pelvic floor muscles may be looser or stretched, making it easier for air to enter and exit.
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Pelvic Floor Strength – A weaker or more relaxed pelvic floor may allow air to move more freely in and out of the vagina, increasing the likelihood of queefs.
Are Queefs Preventable?
Queefs are a normal bodily function, so there’s no need to “fix” them. However, if they make you uncomfortable, here are a few things that might help reduce their frequency:
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Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor – Engaging in Kegel exercises can help tone your pelvic muscles, making it easier to control air intake.
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Switch Up Positions – If you notice queefs happening more often during sex, experiment with different positions to find what minimizes air trapping.
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Relax & Normalize It – The more you stress about queefs, the more awkward they might feel. If it happens, laugh it off—it’s just air, after all!
The Bottom Line
Queefs are a completely normal bodily function that happens to people with vaginas. They’re not a sign of bad health, bad hygiene, or anything to be embarrassed about. Our bodies make noises—it’s just part of being human. So the next time a queef happens, embrace it for what it is: a funny, harmless, and totally natural occurrence.
