Doctors are warning about a new viral trend on TikTok where single women are using their vaginal discharge as perfume.
The trend, called ‘Vabbing’, involves women applying their vaginal fluid behind their ears and on their neck. It was popularized by TikTok user Mandy Lee, whose video gained over 1.5 million views.
Proponents of vabbing claim it helps attract men by using their natural pheromones. Pheromones are chemicals produced by the body that animals use to attract mates. But doctors say there is little proof that it works the same way in humans. They also warn that the practice could cause serious infections, including thrush.
Dr. Paraskevi Dimitriadi, a private gynecologist in London, explained that using unclean hands to collect vaginal discharge could lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. This condition occurs when bacteria from the vagina spreads to other parts of the reproductive system. It can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, making it harder for women to get pregnant. Dr. Dimitriadi also noted that it could lead to bacterial vaginosis or thrush, which can cause unpleasant-smelling discharge.
The trend, which mixes the words “vagina” and “dabbing,” first appeared on TikTok in June and quickly gained millions of views. Although Dr. Dimitriadi said the act of vabbing itself isn’t necessarily unsafe, the method of collecting the discharge is crucial.
Some influencers, like Jewliah, a plus-size OnlyFans creator, have continued to promote vabbing. In a video, she shared hygiene tips, such as showering beforehand and washing hands before and after applying the discharge.
However, experts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of vabbing. Dr. Dimitriadi argues that there is no need to apply vaginal fluid to other body parts to attract a partner, as humans already secrete pheromones through sweat and urine. There is little scientific evidence to suggest that pheromones play a significant role in human attraction.
As the trend grows in popularity, experts continue to warn about the potential health risks involved.
