Ask A Gynecologist: Does Vaginal Tightness Vary Based On A Woman's Race?

Forget what you heard. Dr. Shepherd sets the record straight.

Finally, we’re bringing you very public answers to some of your most private questions. When sexual and vaginal health concerns arise, OB/GYN and nationally known women’s health expert Dr. Jessica Shepherd wants to ensure you have the answers you need to feel at ease. As the founder of Her Viewpoint, an online women’s health forum, she uses this outlet to focus on addressing taboo topics in a comfortable setting. Prepare to take notes!

Q: “Does vaginal tightness vary based on a woman’s race?”

A: If we were to look across at the muscles of the vagina among various races of women the answer would be absolutely not.

A woman’s vaginal muscles can be “stronger” or “tighter” because of her fitness level, per say, or her muscle tone. I do think that pelvic muscles are something that we underestimate and when people pay attention to them they really can strengthen their pelvic tone and that could make a difference but there is no medical reason to back that as a fact.

The only thing that I can suggest that all women can do, no matter their skin color, to make their vaginal muscles tighter is kegels. They are a great, simple exercise that you can do anywhere, any time and the best part is that no one has to know you’re doing them.