Vabbing refers to using one's own vaginal secretions as a perfume by dabbing it on key pressure points such as on the collarbones, on the wrists and behind the ears. It is a portmanteau of the words "vagina" and "dabbing."
The idea being vabbing is that vaginal secretions contain key pheromones and an odor that sexual partners may be attracted to. However, most research on pheromones to date has been conducted on animals; evidence to support the role of pheromones in human sexual behavior is weak.
The term vabbing is believed to have emerged in 2018, when it was discussed on the "Secret Keepers Club" podcast. It was later popularized by sexologist Shan Boodram via an excerpt of her book, "The Game of Desire," which was published on Refinery29. The term re-emerged in 2022 in a TikTok video by analyst and fashion writer Mandy Lee (@oldloserinbrooklyn.) The term went viral, although the video that kicked if off has since been removed.
More About Vabbing
Vabbing is generally safe. Although a healthy vagina tends to have a mild and not-unpleasant odor, vaginal secretions can be more odorous around menstruation and if a person has bacterial vaginosis. The vagina's taste and smell can also be impacted by what a person eats.
In addition, vaginal secretions could carry hepatitis B, which can survive on surfaces for a long period of time. This may be something to consider when dabbing it on areas you want a partner to be attracted to.
Overall, vabbing fans see the practice as a bit of fun, and something that makes them feel more sexy and confident. While the power of pheromones may be questionable, carrying that kind of swagger out on a date can definitely be a potent attractant. Plus, unlike the not-insignificant industry around pheromone perfumes and potions, your own love juice is available free of charge.
