"Vabbing", the trend of using vaginal fluids as perfume

Vabbing involves applying vaginal fluids to the neck, wrists or behind the ears as if it were perfume. There is no conclusive evidence that human pheromones produce attraction, so its effect, if any, has more to do with confidence and the placebo effect than with chemistry.

## What vabbing is and where the word comes from

Vabbing is the practice of collecting vaginal fluids and applying them to the spots where perfume is usually worn: the neck, the wrists or behind the ears. The word comes from blending zona íntima and dabbing, an English verb describing the action of applying something with little taps. There is no single recipe or medical protocol behind it; it is presented as an intimate, discreet gesture.

The term became popular on **TikTok**, where several content creators said they used it. Among the most frequently mentioned are **Mandy Lee**, known for her fashion and lifestyle videos, and **Shan Boodram**, a relationship expert and author of The Game of Desire. Both defended it as a form of personal empowerment and a way to boost confidence. That part, feeling better about yourself, is the one that comes up most often when explaining why someone decides to try it.

## Why it went viral on TikTok

**TikTok** was the main showcase. Videos with millions of views turned a rarely discussed practice into a talking point. Novelty helps: it promises to attract without commercial perfume, without a bottle and without spending money. It also helps that it fits with narratives of self-discovery and self-care, which have a long run on social media.

The idea of **human pheromones** did the rest. In theory, vaginal fluids could act as a natural chemical trigger capable of attracting other people. That explanation sounds powerful, but the evidence does not back it up. There is no conclusive proof that human pheromones have a direct, automatic effect on attraction. Curiosity, morbid fascination and debate made the topic circulate anyway.

The third factor is confidence. Someone who feels more secure and more connected to their body changes their posture, their gaze and the way they occupy space. That can influence how others perceive them, even if it does not come from a magic pheromone.

## What science says about human pheromones

In the animal kingdom, **pheromones** are chemical signals that trigger specific responses, including sensual ones. There, the subject is fairly well studied. In humans, the research is less conclusive. The body produces chemical compounds that could influence how others perceive us, but their impact is not as direct or automatic as in other species.

That is why, when someone claims vabbing works, it is worth separating two things. One is the chemical effect attributed to the fluids. The other is the **placebo effect** and the change in attitude. Many advocates say it works, but not necessarily because of the pheromones. It works, if it works, because the person feels more attractive and acts accordingly.

There is no miracle there. There is psychology, context and expectations. Human attraction is complicated and cannot be reduced to a substance. Nor should vabbing be treated as a guaranteed formula. It is a personal practice, without conclusive scientific backing, and every body responds differently.

## How to do it hygienically and when to avoid it

If someone decides to try it, hygiene is the starting point. Hands should be washed thoroughly before and after applying the fluids. The usual spots are the neck, the wrists and behind the ears, the same places where perfume is worn. It is best done in a clean environment and on unbroken skin.

It should not be practiced if there is a **vaginal or skin infection**. In that case, the sensible thing is to wait until you have recovered and consult a **healthcare professional** if the infection does not improve. It is also not a good idea to mix it with perfume: it can irritate the skin or counteract the scent you are aiming for. And it only makes sense if the person feels comfortable and secure. Confidence is the foundation of all this.

Vabbing is not a medical necessity or a therapy. It is a trend that mixes the body, social media and the desire to attract. It may be harmless in many cases, but it is not free of doubts. If any symptom, irritation or infection appears, the prudent thing is to stop and seek medical help.