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Scientists Warn Against Trend of Using Vaginal Fluid as Perfume
TikTok is known for strange trends, but “vabbing” might top the list. This viral practice involves dabbing vaginal secretions on pulse points like wrists and neck, with influencers claiming it increases sexual attraction.
The idea? Pheromones. Influencer Mandy Lee said, “Vab and you’ll get dates,” insisting that natural scent trumps synthetic perfume. Her video went viral before being deleted, sparking a wave of similar clips.
But scientists disagree. While animals use pheromones to attract mates, there’s little proof humans do. Neuroscientist Erick Janssen calls the trend a “fad,” noting humans don’t consciously detect pheromones. Sex expert Edwina Caito adds, “Our secretions have pheromones, but not enough to be effective perfume.”
The placebo effect may play a role—confidence can be attractive. But vabbing comes with risks. Poor hygiene may cause infections or STIs. Dirty hands can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, bacterial vaginosis, or thrush.
And there’s a social cost: many find the practice repulsive. “Rotten,” one X user wrote.
So, what do you think? Trend or trash? Let us know—and share this story to get others talking.