In recent years, TikTok has become a breeding ground for a multitude of trends, some entertaining and others controversial. One such trend that has garnered attention is “vabbing,” a practice where individuals apply their vaginal secretions to pulse points, such as behind the ears and on the wrists, with the belief that it enhances their attractiveness to potential partners. The term “vabbing” is a portmanteau of “vagina” and “dabbing.”
The concept of vabbing isn’t entirely new; it gained initial attention in 2019 when sexologist and author Shan Boodram discussed it in her book “The Game of Desire.” Boodram claimed that she had been practicing vabbing for over a decade to increase her allure, stating, “I swear if you vab you will attract people, like a date, or a one-night stand. Or you’ll just get free drinks all night.” Her endorsement led to a surge of interest, and the trend found a new life on TikTok, with numerous users sharing their experiences and testimonials.
Proponents of vabbing argue that it functions similarly to pheromones in the animal kingdom, substances secreted to trigger social responses in members of the same species. They believe that applying vaginal fluids can subconsciously attract potential mates. However, it’s essential to note that the efficacy of human pheromones in influencing sexual attraction remains scientifically unproven. Dr. Paraskevi Dimitriadi, a private gynecologist in London, emphasized that there is little evidence to support the idea that vabbing works in humans as it does in animals.
Beyond questions of effectiveness, medical experts have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with vabbing. The primary issue lies in the method of collecting and applying vaginal secretions. Using unwashed fingers to gather these fluids can introduce harmful bacteria into the vaginal environment, increasing the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis or thrush. Dr. Dimitriadi cautioned, “If you use dirty fingers inside your vagina to collect discharge, you can not only potentially traumatize the tissue in your vagina but also spread infection, potentially causing something as serious as pelvic inflammatory disease.”
Moreover, the introduction of external bacteria can lead to complications beyond immediate infections. The bacteria can ascend beyond the cervix to higher reproductive organs, potentially causing scarring in the fallopian tubes. This scarring can impede the passage of fertilized eggs to the womb, leading to fertility issues. Additionally, infections like bacterial vaginosis can result in malodorous discharge, which contradicts the intended purpose of vabbing to attract partners.
Some content creators who advocate for vabbing acknowledge certain guidelines to mitigate risks. They advise against practicing vabbing if one has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or if there’s an unusual or unpleasant odor emanating from the genital area. Furthermore, they recommend maintaining hygiene, such as wiping down gym equipment after use to prevent transferring bodily fluids to shared surfaces.
Despite anecdotal reports of success, it’s crucial to recognize that there’s no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of vabbing. Any perceived benefits are likely attributed to the placebo effect or increased confidence from the individual practicing it. Confidence can indeed play a significant role in social interactions, but attributing it solely to vabbing is misleading. As Dr. Dimitriadi highlighted, there’s no solid scientific proof that vabbing does anything beyond making the wearer feel more confident.
The resurgence of vabbing on platforms like TikTok underscores a broader trend where unconventional and sometimes risky behaviors gain traction without adequate scientific backing. While the allure of natural attraction methods is understandable, it’s essential to approach such practices with caution and skepticism. Relying on well-established methods of personal hygiene and using tested and approved products is a safer and more effective approach to personal grooming and attraction.
In conclusion, while vabbing has gained popularity as a viral trend, both its effectiveness and safety are questionable. Medical professionals advise against the practice due to potential health risks, including infections and fertility complications. Individuals seeking to enhance their attractiveness should consider safer, scientifically supported methods and maintain proper hygiene practices.
