Orgasms are an essential part of human sexuality, yet many people, including those with vaginas, do not fully comprehend the process that goes into experiencing one. Countless myths surround the female orgasm, and Dr. Lauren Streicher, a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, explains that the female orgasm is “far more mysterious” than the male one. In fact, the female orgasm is often misunderstood because of a lack of research, and it has been compared to the male orgasm for years.
Here are some essential facts that everyone, irrespective of gender or sexuality, should know about the female orgasm:
Penetration alone does not guarantee an orgasm
Most women cannot orgasm from penetration alone as approx 76% need to experience clitoral stimulation to reach an orgasm. The clitoris is a female sex organ present near the opening of the vagina. Women with a longer distance between the clitoris and vaginal opening tend to be less likely to orgasm from penetrative sex. Therefore, one must communicate with their partner and ask for what they need to reach orgasm.
Sexual pleasure doesn’t always have to end with an orgasm
The climax is often seen as the most crucial part of sex, but this does not mean one cannot enjoy sex without climaxing. Every person has a choice to make for themselves, and many people report that they have exceptional sexual experiences without having an orgasm. Tantra sex revolves around this idea that the orgasm isn’t always the end game.
Women take longer to orgasm than men
On average, men take five to seven minutes to orgasm, while women take an average of 14 minutes. This disparity is more pronounced during partnered sex. Since female arousal generally requires emotional foreplay, it is essential to have foreplay to increase the chances of orgasm.
Penetrative sex isn’t the only way to orgasm
The clitoris that lies outside the vaginal opening is the primary pathway to orgasm for most women. However, women can experience orgasm through kissing, oral sex, fantasy, nipple stimulation, and other non-penetrative activities.
Women can have multiple orgasms
Contrary to popular belief, women can have multiple orgasms. However, the prevalence and intensity of multiple orgasms can vary between different people. Some may have a series of less intense orgasms, while others may alternate between different types of stimulation.
It is crucial to remember that every person, regardless of gender or sexuality, is unique and can experience sexual pleasure differently. Therefore, communication, self-discovery, and experimentation are essential components of having satisfying sexual experiences.
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