Is blowing air into the vagina dangerous?

Dear Reader,  

You’re not full of hot air: it’s possible! Though extremely rare, someone could potentially die due to an air embolism after someone blows air into their vagina. Air can enter a vein and travel through your body, causing a heart attack or stroke. It’s also possible to get air stuck in your abdominal area, which can cause severe stomach pain. If your girlfriend likes a cool breeze below, consider swapping the blowing for gentle breathing on the vulva or using ice.  

What is an air embolism? 

An air embolism happens when air gets into a vein or artery and causes an air bubble that can travel through the body. This air bubble is like a dam that blocks blood flow and prevents vital nutrients from getting to different organs. Limiting blood flow to the brain, heart, or lungs can lead to stroke, heart attack, or respiratory failure. 

What can happen when you blow air into the vagina?  

When you forcefully blow air into the vagina, there’s a risk of getting air stuck in a blood vessel or the abdominal area. While this is extremely rare, it can be painful and, in some cases, even fatal. Another possibility is that air can get stuck in the abdominal area, which can cause severe stomach pain. You might need medical attention to release the trapped air. 

Who is at greatest risk after blowing air into the vagina?  

Pregnant people are at a much greater risk of an air embolism from blowing air in the vagina. During pregnancy, the uterine veins are larger and sit closer to the vaginal canal, making it more likely that air can get into them. However, air embolisms are still very rare.  

It’s extremely rare to have an air embolism if you aren’t pregnant. However, having injuries or tearing in the vagina can expose a vein to incoming air, increasing the risk of an air embolism. In most cases, if you aren’t pregnant and you don’t have injuries, the more likely outcome is that the air becomes trapped in the abdominal canal. 

What are some alternatives to blowing in the vagina?  

If you and your girlfriend like having some airplay, you can find some alternatives that might blow you away. Gently puffing air on or breathing onto someone’s clitoris or vulva—not their vagina—might provide similar sensations without the risks. If you’re both into the cold feeling of blowing, you might enjoy performing oral sex on her while keeping an ice cube in your mouth. That way, you can have some chill without the game of chance.