Why a “Tight” Vagina Does Not Mean Better Sex

Sex

The notion that a tight vagina equates to better sex is a fallacy centered around prioritizing male pleasure and the obsession with virginity. But the truth is that this myth goes against the natural ways women’s bodies experience pleasure.

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Have you heard any of these statements before?

  • Having lots of sex can make your vagina loose.
  • A tight vagina is a sign of youth and attractiveness.
  • A tight vagina means more pleasure for you and your partner.

We have some news for you. All of these statements are entirely misguided. Let us explain why.

A “tight vagina” goes against women’s natural bodily processes. 

The truth is that sexual pleasure is a complex and subjective experience, influenced by physical, psychological, and emotional factors. It involves desire, passion, arousal, stimulation, and connection—both with your partner and between your mind and body.

All of these factors increase blood flow to the vulva, clitoris, and vaginal walls’ tissues, creating engorgement, just like when a penis gets erect.

As a result of this blood flow, the vagina naturally expands to accommodate the penis. After sexual activity, the vagina returns to its normal state. 

You might start to see why a “tight vagina” goes against our body’s natural process. Let us explain further how this myth can harm us. 

The “tight vagina” myth perpetuates unrealistic expectations. 

The prevailing notion that a tight vagina equals more pleasure for both partners can actually have the opposite effect on us. We might try to forcefully contract or squeeze hard during sex to create tightness. This obstructs the blood flow to the vaginal area and causes discomfort, pain, numbness, or even injury if there isn’t enough lubrication.

That emphasis on an ideal vaginal size creates unnecessary anxiety, pressure, and might lead to body image issues, which may affect your overall sexual experience.

What should you do instead?

Relax and slow down — engage in foreplay and explore various forms of stimulation. When we do that, we allow for the blood to flow and for lubrication to happen naturally. This is what leads to more pleasure and orgasms.

A Final Note

Contrary to popular belief, a locked up, tightly shut vagina is a non-aroused one, as opposed to a sign of youth and purity. So, the next time someone makes a statement like that in front of you, hit them with the truth: the key to a more pleasurable experience lies in extended foreplay, open communication, and a sense of playful exploration.

WISH logo

This article has been medically reviewed by the WISH Program at AUBMC. 

The Women Integrated Sexual Health (WISH) Program at the American University in Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) is a program dedicated to empower, educate, and heal through addressing the multifaceted aspects of sexuality and sexual and reproductive health and rights.

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