Ever sat at your desk and felt a wet sensation in your undies? But like your mind is nowhere sex but yet, there you are with a wet vagina. But what exactly does a wet vagina mean, there’s got to be more than it just ruining your panties? Well, there is and chances are what’s happening is totally normal. But if you’re stuck wondering why your vagina is so wet, here are a couple of reasons.
What does getting wet even mean?
Depending on the situation, ‘wet’ could mean different things. When you’re in a sexual situation or experiencing external stimulation (not related to a sexual situation), your vagina producers fluids that will make things easier during penetration. There are two glands that make things slicker down there when you’re turned on. Bartholin’s glands are located on either side of your vaginal opening while Skene’s glands are located near the urethra – this gland is believed to be linked to squirting.
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A wet vagina is totally normal
Your vagina produces lubrication even when you’re not aware of it – it’s all part of your natural bodily function. The glands in your vagina and cervix create lubrication to prevent tearing and keep your vagina clean and moist. Depending on where you are in your cycle, the level and amount of wetness will fluctuate during the month. For example, during ovulation, your discharge will become an egg white consistency to help make fertilisation easier.
Other factors that can affect your vaginal lubrication include: age, medication, mental health, relationship factors, perspiration and sweat glands, stress, the type of clothing you wear, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) and infections.
Keep in mind that certain birth controls can increase vaginal wetness as the pill increases your oestrogen levels. And if you have bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, you might feel even wetter as your body is trying to fight off the infection by creating extra lubrication that will help move the bacteria from your vagina.
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But what is it?
It may be difficult to immediately determine what kind of fluid is causing your wet undies. For the most part, you won’t know until you’re in the bathroom checking your underwear.
It might be cervical fluid
Cervical fluid is not related to sexual arousal. Cervical fluid is made up of carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids. This fluid changes in texture, colour and consistency, depending on your cycle and hormone levels. These fluids are a natural bodily response. If they are green (or any unusual colour like grey), smelly, or have a cottage cheese texture, it is best to check with your doctor, as this could be a sign of infection.
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It could be sweat
Crotch sweat is so real! And it can happen when you’re working out or when you’re turned on. Arousal causes your vaginal area to swell due to increased blood flow. This creates a watery solution called vaginal transudate a.k.a vaginal sweat. This sweat causes the sensation of your outer and inner labia feeling moist.
Stress and working out can also cause sweat build up in your vaginal area, which could explain why your crouch feels wet while you’re sitting in your office chair. The best way to help with sweat is to wear breathable underwear, keep your pubic hair trimmed and practice good hygiene.
Lubrication is an important part of your vagina maintaining balance. For the most part, you have nothing to worry about. If it’s not lubrication, it could be your sweat glands or where you are in your cycle. So stop stressing!