Does Abstinence Affect Your Vagina? What Happens When You Don’t Have Sex For A While
Many people wonder if abstaining from sex for an extended period can have any effects on the vagina. With conflicting information online, it’s understandable why some feel concerned about potential changes.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what happens when you don’t have sexual intercourse for a while, bust some common myths, and provide tips for maintaining vaginal health during periods of abstinence. Read on to get the facts and feel empowered about your body, no matter what your circumstances are.
Hymen Doesn’t Regrow After Abstinence
One common myth is that the hymen can regrow or grow back after abstaining from sex. However, this claim is medically inaccurate. Once the hymen has been stretched or changed, whether from sex or other activities, it does not regenerate, even after long stretches without intercourse.
Vagina Doesn’t Close Up Either
Another question many have is whether abstaining from sex for an extended time could cause the vagina to “close up.” However, barring certain medical conditions, there is no need to worry about the vagina sealing itself shut due to lack of intercourse alone.
While temporary tightness or decreased elasticity may occur after abstinence (more on that shortly), the vagina is designed to be a canal and does not close due to infrequent sexual activity.
What Can Happen During Abstinence
Now that we’ve cleared up those myths, let’s discuss what potential changes may occur when sex is infrequent or absent for a prolonged period:
Decreased Vaginal Elasticity
After abstaining from intercourse for a while, many notice their vagina feels less flexible and stretchy. Known as decreased elasticity, this results from lack of regular activity “stretching” the tissues.
With intercourse after a long break, some experience temporary discomfort or pain from the decreased elasticity. However, the vagina typically regains flexibility after regular sexual activity resumes. How much elasticity is lost and how quickly it bounces back depends on age and other individual factors.
Potential Change In Libido
Going without partnered sex for an extended time may also affect libido for some. While libido varies greatly among individuals, some do report decreased sexual desire and arousal after prolonged abstinence.
However, others experience an increase in libido when sex has been absent. There’s no “normal” when it comes to sex drive changes with abstinence – libido may decrease, increase, or stay the same during periods of no sexual activity.
Increased Arousal Time
After an extended sex break, many notice it takes longer to become fully aroused before intercourse. The time it takes to transition from unaroused to fully aroused may increase during abstinence for some. Again, this varies widely among individuals.
Anxiety and Nervousness
Starting to have partnered sex again after a long break can also provoke feelings of anxiety or nervousness surrounding sexual performance and intimacy. These emotions are very common and nothing to feel ashamed about.
Like learning any new skill, it takes time to regain comfort and confidence after not having sex for an extended period. Open communication with your partner is key.
Vaginal Health Tips During Abstinence
While abstinence itself doesn’t cause adverse vaginal health effects, following some self-care best practices can help you feel your best:
- Continue getting annual well-woman exams for preventative care
- Discuss any unusual vaginal symptoms promptly with your gynecologist
- Consider vaginal moisturizers/lubricants if dryness bothers you
- Stay active to promote blood flow to the genital region
- Manage stress levels with healthy outlets like exercise, meditation, etc.
- Focus on all dimensions of your health – mental, emotional, physical, sexual
The Takeaway
Abstaining from sex will not cause you to “lose” your vagina, make it dysfunctional, or fuse it closed. While changes like decreased elasticity may occur after an abstinence period, these are temporary and not harmful. Tune into your body, notice changes without judgement, and discuss lasting concerns with your doctor.
Ultimately if abstinence feels right for you at any life stage, that personal choice deserves support and respect, not shame. Remember your vaginal health and sexuality journey are unique to you.
