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

Understanding the sexual side effects of antidepressants
Understanding the sexual side effects of antidepressants
If you experience depression, the goal of taking medications is to help ease your symptoms. But navigating that road can be more difficult if you're d...
Read More
My legs shake after sex. Is that normal?
My legs shake after sex. Is that normal?
If you’ve ever finished a roll in the hay with shaky legs, you’re probably wondering why. Shaking and pelvic cramping after reaching orgasm happens to...
Read More
8 reasons to have sex right now
8 reasons to have sex right now8 reasons to have sex right now8 reasons to have sex right now8 reasons to have sex right now
You can improve your health just by being intimate. Sex can be fun and relaxing, and can feel great. But did you know that having it regularly may al...
Start Slideshow
4 simple yoga moves for better sex
4 simple yoga moves for better sex4 simple yoga moves for better sex4 simple yoga moves for better sex4 simple yoga moves for better sex
Strengthen your muscles, improve your mood, and turn your love life up a notch. Yoga is a low-impact workout that can help calm your mind, ease joint...
Start Slideshow

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.