The Clit Show! All you need to know about the Clitoris
The clitoris is a powerful and sensitive part of the female body that plays a significant role in sexual pleasure. Despite this, many individuals don’t know how to find or care for it despite its importance. Understanding the anatomy, exploring sensations, and learning how to maintain its health are all essential aspects of sexual wellness. In this guide, we’ll delve into the ways to locate, explore, and care for your clitoris.
Where is the Clitoris?
The clitoris, a highly sensitive organ, is situated at the top of the vulva, nestled between the labia minora (inner lips). The external part, the glans clitoris, is commonly referred to as the "clitoris". While this visible part is typically pea-sized, about 90% of the clitoris extends internally along both sides of the vagina, varying in size and shape from person to person [1]. It’s important to remember that no two vulvas look the same [2].
Locating your clitoris can be a bit tricky, as it's tucked inside your inner labia, beneath its protective hood. It can be as small as a pea or as big as a thumb. When aroused, it becomes stiff and swollen, similar to a penis. To locate it, try looking at and touching your vulva, gently parting the labia, or using a mirror for exploration.
What does it do?
Did you know that despite being part of the female reproductive system, the clitoris actually has no function in reproduction, and is instead the main pleasure center for females during sex? Its single purpose is to give sexual pleasure! [3]
Exploring Sensation and Pleasure – the importance of clitoral stimulation
The glans clitoris alone contains about 8,000 nerve endings. More than any other part of the vulva. Together, these nerves can produce a range of pleasurable sensations, depending on how your clitoris is touched and how sexually aroused you are [4].
To discover what feels pleasurable for you, it’s important to understand your body; the best way to do this is through experimenting with different types of touch. Light strokes, circular motions, or even gently tapping in or around the clitoris can help you to discover what feels pleasurable for you. Exploring on your own or with a partner, with time and open communication can lead to a better understanding of your desires.
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It's also worth noting that for many women, achieving orgasm through vaginal penetration alone can be challenging. Dr. Laurie Mintz, who coined the term ‘orgasm gap,’ emphasizes the need for direct clitoral stimulation, including oral sex and touching, to achieve orgasm [5].
Caring for Your Clitoris
Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for clitoral health. Whilst you do not need to clean the vagina, as it’s designed to clean itself (though natural vaginal secretions, also known as discharge, inside the body), you do need to clean your vulva. Standard shower gels can often dry out vulval tissues, as well as disrupt your natural pH. Our pH-matched feminine wash, AH! YES® CLEANSE is designed to wash away bacteria while protecting your intimate health. Find out more here.
In short, learning, exploring, and taking good care are key to sexual wellness. Dive into knowledge, discover what feels right for you, and use natural, pH-matched products that work for you.
NEW INSIGHTS AND SURPRISING STATISTICS
LELO have recently studied the statistics of the female orgasm. From the 'orgasm gap' and the role of clitoral stimulation, to the science behind what an orgasm ACTUALLY means... Read about it in their latest blog HERE!
References:
- https://www.health.com/mind-body/10-things-you-never-knew-about-the-clitoris
- https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/puberty/my-vulva-and-vagina-normal
- https://www.webmd.com/women/anatomy-function-care-conditions-clitoris
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22823-clitoris
- https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/orgasm-gap
