Vaginal flatus—commonly known as vaginal wind or queefing—is a totally normal yet sometimes an awkward experience. It happens when air gets trapped in the vagina and later makes an unexpected (and often untimely) escape. While it’s usually harmless, frequent vaginal flatus can sometimes indicate an underlying pelvic floor issue—one that pelvic health physiotherapy can help with. Because let’s be honest, no one wants to be mid-yoga pose or enjoying some intimate time and suddenly provide their own sound effects!
What Causes Vaginal Flatus?
Vaginal flatus happens when air gets sucked into the vaginal canal and later makes its grand exit. While it can occur randomly, certain factors make it more likely:
Pelvic floor weakness or dysfunction: If your pelvic floor muscles aren’t quite doing their job, they may allow more air to sneak in—and out—unexpectedly.
Childbirth and postpartum changes: Having a baby is amazing, but your pelvic floor might be feeling a little too relaxed afterward, leading to more air traffic control issues.
Pelvic organ prolapse: When the vaginal walls lose some of their firmness, they may become a bit too welcoming to passing air.
Certain sexual positions or physical activity: Some yoga poses, core workouts, or enthusiastic moments in the bedroom can lead to an accidental air intake.
Previous surgeries or trauma: Episiotomies, perineal tears, or pelvic surgeries can all change the way the vaginal and pelvic floor muscles function, leading to more air mishaps.
While vaginal flatus is common and if you’re also experiencing pelvic pain, heaviness, or bladder leakage, it could be a sign that your pelvic floor needs some love and attention.
How Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Can Help
Pelvic health physiotherapy is like personal training for your pelvic floor—helping those muscles work more efficiently so you don’t have to worry about unexpected sound effects. Treatment may include:
Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening and retraining the muscles to provide better support (and less air intake!).
Breathing and core control strategies: Learning how to manage pressure changes so you don’t accidentally turn into a human whoopee cushion.
Manual therapy: Addressing any areas of tightness or imbalance in the pelvic floor that may be contributing to the issue.
Education on movement and posture: Because sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference in reducing those air pockets.
If vaginal flatus is making you self-conscious or interrupting your daily life, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to just laugh it off (unless you want to!). A pelvic health physiotherapy assessment can help you get things back under control so you can focus on what really matters—without worrying about surprise sound effects.
Comments