Advertisement
question

Why does the vagina lubricate when a woman is aroused?

Madeleine M. Castellanos, MD
Madeleine M. Castellanos, MD on behalf of Good In Bed
Psychiatry
answer
When a woman gets sexually aroused, her body produces a clear, very slippery lubrication that is very close in consistency to a man's pre-ejaculatory fluid. This lubrication occurs when the glands that surround the opening of the vagina have increased blood flow to the surrounding tissues as a response to sexual arousal. This actually causes moisture to flow from the blood vessels and surrounding spongy tissue into the glands because of increased blood pressure in those tissues.  As this moisture passes into the glands, they release this wonderful natural lubrication. You will notice a distinct difference between this lubrication and the normal moisture of the vagina.  This natural lubrication is much slipperier and is mainly produced around the opening of the vagina. It is slippery enough that it can be spread to the inner vaginal wall as well as over the lips and even up to the clitoris.

Continue Learning about Sexual Health and Relationships

Recognizing and treating sexual addiction
Recognizing and treating sexual addiction
If you’ve followed the news in recent years, you may have heard of a condition called sexual addiction. A number of celebrities—including Tiger Woods,...
Read More
3 big health benefits of sex
3 big health benefits of sex
There are a lot of reasons to get excited about spending time between the sheets with your partner. It can be fun and make you feel great, but did you...
Read More
Solutions for top menopausal sex issues
Solutions for top menopausal sex issues
Discussing concerns about your sex life can be uncomfortable. But when it comes to sex before, during, and after menopause, there's plenty to talk abo...
Read More
When do men and women reach their individual sexual peaks?
When do men and women reach their individual sexual peaks? Men reach their sexual peak in their late...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.