One of the most unconventional and probably disturbing social media trends called “vabbing” is getting a thumbs down from experts as they warn the practice could cause an infection or even worse, infertility.
Never heard of vabbing? Brace yourself and read on…
WHAT IS VABBING?
Vabbing is a portmanteau of the words “vagina” and “dabbing” and is the art of strategically placing vaginal fluid or secretion in key areas like behind the ear or on the wrists as a way of attracting a man or woman romantically. In essence, it is a woman’s personal supply of pheromone scent.
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According to Women’s Health Magazine, vabbing isn’t anything new, but it was brought to TikTok by a user named Mandy Lee and now, more and more women say they’ve attracted men in their lives.
In one video, TikToker and YouTuber Palesa Moon explained how the strategy worked on her blind date, while a prominent advocate of vabbing, Jewliah, claims men are buying her gifts and showering her with compliments.
@palesamoon♬ original sound – Palesa Moon
DOCTORS WARN AGAINST THE TIKTOK TREND
Despite all the reviews from TikTok users, experts are advising against vabbing.
According to Female Health Specialist Dr Hana Patel, the trend could lead to an infection.
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“There is the potential to get an infection. We have bacteria and fungi on our skin, and if we upset the vagina’s natural balance, it can cause a localised infection. If you do try vabbing, avoid any broken skin, the areas around your eyes, and anywhere near your mouth,” she told Women’s Health Magazine.
Another expert, Dr Simone Zoepke who is a Durban-based GP at Femina Health, told News24 that vaginal secretions can be carriers for diseases such as HIV, syphilis, herpes and gonorrhoea.
“By applying it to areas of the body, one increases the possibility of transmitting diseases to other people, especially through oral contact with these areas through kissing,” she said.
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Vabbing can also lead to infertility, London gynaecologist Paraskevi Dimitriadi told the Daily Mail. If certain bacteria is already on the fingers and then inserted into the vagina it can lead to several issues, including bacterial vaginosis, thrush, or even pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can spread from the cervix to other organs and can even lead to infertility.