7 different kinds of orgasms women can have
We can all agree that orgasms are great (and great for you), but there’s still some mystery behind how the big O actually happens. According to experts, there are actually anywhere from 4 to 14 types of orgasms that people with vaginas can experience. Why no exact number? Not only is there a lack of research devoted to sexuality for people with vaginas, but there’s also a longstanding history of scientists valuing orgasms achieved through penetration over other types.
When talking about the types of orgasms that people can have, we’re actually discussing different areas of the body that can be stimulated to reach climax. While there are different ways to reach orgasm, this doesn’t necessarily mean that these are different types of orgasm. An orgasm is simply a physical reflex that occurs when muscles tighten during sexual arousal and then relax through a series of rhythmic contractions.
Not everyone with a vagina experiences sex and orgasm the same way. Some people are capable of multiple orgasms, and some cannot orgasm at all. It’s important to remember that orgasms aren’t the end goal of sex — it’s about the (oh-so-pleasurable) journey, not the destination. Knowing all the parts of your body that can lead to climax is just another way to explore what brings you pleasure, with or without a partner.
1. Clitoral orgasm
A clitoral orgasm is the most commonly reported type of orgasm. The clitoris is the pleasure centre of the vagina, with over 8,000 super-sensitive nerve endings in the tip alone. Some experts argue that it’s actually incorrect to distinguish clitoral orgasms from any other type of vaginal orgasm because the vagina and clitoris are not separate anatomical structures. The clitoris is shaped like a wishbone, and sits against the top wall of the vagina, around the urethra, and along the labia. Because of its location, stimulation and pressure on any of these adjacent areas necessarily applies pressure, friction, vibration, and so on, to the clitoris. This means that the clitoris is actually the main source of any vaginal orgasm, whether it’s stimulated externally, internally, or both. However, when we refer to a clitoral orgasm, we usually mean an orgasm reached through direct stimulation of the outer tip.
Clitoral orgasms are characterized by rapid contraction and release of the uterine and vaginal muscles, and can last anywhere from 10-30 seconds. Many people experience heightened sensitivity of the entire body and “aftershocks” immediately following a clitoral orgasm.
While clitoral orgasms may be the most accessible kind, every person prefers different types of touch there, so feel free to experiment. It helps to start slow, as the clitoris is mainly made up of erectile tissue, meaning it takes a little time to become fully aroused. This also means that the clitoris responds best to a mix of direct and indirect stimulation — the more aroused you become, the more sensitive and erect your clitoris gets. Also...vibrators.
2. G-spot orgasm
A G-spot orgasm is also commonly referred to as a vaginal orgasm. The G-spot is a patch of textured erectile tissue and nerves on the front wall of the vagina, about halfway between the vaginal opening and cervix. A G-spot orgasm takes some time to achieve, but it typically lasts longer and feels more intense than a clitoral orgasm. Some people find G-spot stimulation overwhelming or uncomfortable, so don’t worry if it’s not for you.
The G-spot is unique for each person in location, size, and ability to become aroused, so be patient. Spending some time on foreplay beforehand will make it easier to locate your G-spot, as it is mainly comprised of erectile tissue, which will become engorged (i.e. easier to find) the more you become aroused. To find your G-spot, insert your fingers about 2 inches into your vagina, and angle them toward the front of your body. Gently explore this area until you feel a difference in texture on the surface of the vaginal wall. Once you find your G-spot, take your time to learn what kind of pressure and stimulation feels best. Many people prefer a "come hither" motion with fingers, or a dildo. If you are having penetrative sex with a penis or dildo, rear entry positions are the best way to hit your G-spot.
G-spot stimulation can lead to ejaculation, as it stimulates Skene’s glands on either side of the urethra. This also means that G-spot stimulation can make you feel like you have to pee, so you might want to use the bathroom beforehand.
3. Blended orgasm
A blended orgasm is reportedly the most intense of orgasms. It happens when more than one erogenous zone is being stimulated at the same time (often with dual stimulation sex toys). The most common combination to reach a blended orgasm is clitoral and G-spot stimulation, but any mix of orgasmic body parts is fair game. (Pro tip: the Dea by Bellesa vibrator for magical blended orgasms).
4. Anal orgasm
Anal orgasms are much more common for people with penises because they have a prostrate, but there are many ways people with vaginas can climax from anal play as well. Most of the nerve endings near the anus are concentrated in the skin around the opening, known as the perianal region. These nerve endings make the anus and perineum (the area between the anus and vulva) super sensitive. This sensitivity is why anal orgasms can be incredibly pleasurable, but it also makes the skin in this area very delicate and susceptible to irritation or injury. Anal sex has a reputation for being painful, but it doesn’t have to be (and shouldn't be) if you prepare properly.
The best way to prepare for anal play is to relax your muscles, go slow, and use a lot of lube. You can start to relax by breathing deeply, stretching, and massaging the area. Take time to gently stimulate the outside of the anus before trying penetration. Some people can achieve orgasm simply by rubbing the outside of the anal opening, while others need internal stimulation. You might want to try a small anal-friendly vibrator or butt plug before inserting a finger, penis, or larger anal toy. And definitely don’t forget the lube! The anus doesn’t naturally produce lubricant, and the skin surrounding it is very prone to tears, which can lead to unwanted infection. When it comes to lube during anal, more is more.
5. Nipple orgasm
While not as common, some people are able to orgasm through nipple stimulation alone. Breasts and nipples are major erogenous zones, with tons of nerves and super sensitive skin. Nipples respond to temperature, pressure, and moisture, so there are plenty of ways to stimulate them. You can experiment with stroking, licking, sucking, kissing, and even toys like nipple clamps or vibrators. Start slow and gentle to figure out what techniques work best for you.
6. A-spot orgasm
There are erogenous zones deeper within the vaginal canal, centred around the cervix. All of these areas take patience to locate and correctly stimulate. They also may not be pleasurable for everyone, so don’t force it if it’s not for you. One of these areas is the A-spot, or anterior fornix erogenous zone, located on the high front (or anterior) wall of the vagina, on the belly side of the cervix. The cervix blocks this area from stimulation, which makes this area feel extra sensitive, as penetration or even light touching of the cervix can be uncomfortable for many people with vaginas. Unless you are directly looking for this area or inserting something large enough that every part of the vaginal canal is touched, it’s easy to let this spot go unnoticed.
It’s best to explore the A-spot when you are already quite aroused so that your muscles are extra relaxed. You can find the A-spot with your fingers by inserting one or two all the way inside the vagina. When you feel a hard spot at the back, where you cannot penetrate any further, you’ve reached the cervix. Move your fingers across the area with different degrees of firmness until you find one that’s most comfortable. The A-spot is stimulated through pressure, not touch or rubbing like the external clitoris or G-spot. Longer toys with curved ends, as well as positions that shorten the vagina (legs brought close to the abdomen or chest) can help you find the A-spot more easily. You can also stimulate the A-spot internally through anal penetration. Some people find the A-spot extremely sensitive and love having it touched, but others may not, so don’t worry if you’re not into it.
7. Cervical orgasm
Another deep vaginal orgasm is the cervical orgasm. Also referred to as the C-spot, or posterior fornix erogenous zone, the cervix can be reached by stimulating the back (or posterior) wall of the vagina. As mentioned above, some people find touching or penetrating the cervix to be uncomfortable, so don’t push it if it’s not pleasurable. However, if you enjoy cervical stimulation, it can produce strong, intense orgasms.
Similarly to the A-spot, the cervix responds best to pressure rather than repeated stimulation. Also similar to the A-spot, locating the cervix requires patience and deep penetration, so it’s best to try cervical stimulation when you’re very aroused. Heavy thrusting may hurt, so go slow until you find what feels best. You can also save deep penetration until you’re closer to climax, then thrust so that you hit your cervix.
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