This article was scientifically reviewed by Human Sexuality expert Dr. Laurie Mintz. She is a professor, researcher, private practitioner and Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
1. It’s More Than Meets the Eye
A 3D model of the clitoris is just starting to make its rounds in Sex Ed. Classes, and honestly it’s about time. Everyone would have a much better appreciation for the clitoris if they knew what a bad ass beast it looks like.
While we often think of the clitoris as a tiny external part of the body (that is hard to find, if you listen to stand up comedians from the 90s), it’s actually a pretty significant anatomical structure. Of all the parts of the clitoris – the glans, the hood, the legs, the bulbs – only the glans and hood are visible, with the glans generally covered by the clitoral hood. The legs run through the mons pubis (the mound of fat above the hood) and the bulb surrounds the vaginal canal like it’s giving it a big ‘ol hug. Most external vibrators deal in pleasing just the external part of the clitoris – while SONA is designed to get right to the root of the matter.
2. It Gets Hard
The clitoris and penis are made out of very similar tissue, and in fact start out as the same part of the anatomy when you’re in utero, only developing into one or the other later in the development of the fetus.
Thus, like a penis, the spongy tissue of the clitoris also swells as blood rushes to it during arousal. Oh, and unlike a penis, it takes a while to go down after coming, unlike a penis which generally loses its erection almost immediately after orgasming – making multiple orgasms much more feasible for clitoris-having folks.
3. It’s Built Solely for Pleasure – And Is Really Good at It
The clitoris contains over 10,000 sensitive nerve endings – whose only job is to make you feel good.
4. But Actually, You Might Need Clitoral Stimulation to Orgasm
Never been able to reach orgasm without flicking the bean? You’re not alone: it’s reported that as many as 80-96% of women who can orgasm require some clitoral stimulation to get there. Thankfully, there are plenty of perfectly designed toys exactly for that, whether it’s the World-First Sonic Clitoral Stimulator SONA or the petite handheld vibe ALIA which can be used for partnered or solo sex.
5. It’s Literally Key
The name ‘clitoris’ is thought to come from the Greek word for key, which is a nice way to think about something that might ‘unlock’ pleasure for you.
6. It Goes On and On and On…
A clitoral orgasm can bring about anywhere from 3 to 16 contractions and can last from 10 to 30 seconds―and that’s not even counting people who have multiple orgasms!
Conclusion
So is it all about the clitoris when it comes to good sex then? For most women, the clitoris is a central aspect of pleasure. Still, there are many other erogenous zones on your body – and everyone’s body is different.
While you might find you need to use your left hand to make counter-clockwise circles on your clitoris to orgasm, someone else might need to use focused vibrations to stroke the clitoral hood rather than the exposed nub itself. Thankfully, taking the time to experiment with what type of sensation does it for you and sharing it with your partner is definitely up there when it comes to fun ways to spend your time!