The check valve according to the invention significantly reduces the generation of noise by producing an asymmetrical circulation around the closing body causing a force resulting from the flow and acting on the closing body to have a transverse component in relation to the opening direction, as a result of which increased friction and damping are generated in the closing body guide. The closing body may be asymmetrically embodied, or the housing wall encompassing the closing body may be provided with a conduit extending in the opening direction over at least a part of the travel path of the closing body.