Resources

What is the clitoris?

The clitoris is the primary organ responsible for female sexual pleasure. It has two parts. Most people easily recognize the first part—the external structure called the glans clitoris, which is about the size of a pea. The second part, which is internal and often overlooked, extends deep into the pelvis and measures up to 14 cm in length when engorged. It has two leg-like structures that extend to the pelvic floor and two bulb-like structures that surround the vaginal canal. Interestingly, this aspect of female anatomy is one of the most misunderstood parts of the human body, even among healthcare professionals. Many physicians and surgeons who operate in the pelvic region have not received adequate training on the anatomy, nerve supply, and blood supply of the clitoris. This lack of understanding can lead to an unintended decrease in clitoral sensation after surgical procedures. It highlights the need for comprehensive education on female anatomy, not only for women but also for healthcare providers.

Why is understanding the clitoris essential?

The clitoris—not the vagina—is the female sexual organ. The vagina functions as a sperm repository and a birth canal. While penetration of the vagina is the most reliable method for men to achieve orgasm, that isn’t how most women orgasm. Most women require stimulation of the clitoris to orgasm—either directly from the external clitoris or indirectly from the internal clitoral organ. When a person doesn’t experience vaginal orgasms, they may feel frustrated or confused. Understanding the clitoris can help women—and their partners—understand how to achieve better and more consistent sexual pleasure. Also, the clitoris has largely been erased from our language, including within the medical community, which harms women and reinforces the patriarchy. Acknowledging its significance empowers women and helps to keep them safe.

What is a vaginal orgasm?

The term “vaginal orgasm” was created to differentiate a particular type of orgasm achieved during vaginal penetration. However, nearly all orgasms involve clitoral stimulation—either by direct stimulation of the external glans clitoris or by indirect stimulation of the internal clitoral structure during vaginal penetration. So distinguishing between vaginal and clitoral orgasms is both artificial and unhelpful. The term “vaginal orgasm” was introduced in the early 1900s by psychoanalyst Dr. Sigmund Freud, who labeled women who did not achieve orgasm solely through vaginal penetration as “frigid” and psychologically immature. This misogynistic perspective has led generations of women to forgo external clitoral stimulation and feel pressured into faking orgasms.

What is the G-Spot?

The G-Spot, or Gräfenberg Spot, is a hotly debated topic in sexual health and anatomy. It is often described as an area on the anterior wall of the vagina that can provide heightened sexual pleasure when stimulated. While some individuals report experiencing intense sensations or orgasms through G-Spot stimulation, scientific research has not definitively identified a specific tissue structure associated with it.

Many experts believe that the sensations attributed to the G-Spot are related to the stimulation of internal structures of the clitoris, as it has roots that extend into the vaginal wall. This means that stimulation in this area may indirectly engage the clitoris, which is known to be a primary source of sexual pleasure for many women.

The experience of pleasure varies widely among individuals, and while some may find G-Spot stimulation pleasurable, others may not experience the same sensations. As a result, understanding and exploring one's own body can play a significant role in sexual satisfaction.

How do I know if I’ve had an orgasm?

For many people with vulvas—and unlike people with penises—an orgasm isn’t always marked by ejaculation, making it difficult to determine if one has truly experienced it. Identifying whether you have had an orgasm can vary from person to person. By definition, an orgasm is a physiological reflex that occurs during the sexual response cycle, following the sudden release of accumulated muscle tension and tissue congestion. It is characterized by intense sexual pleasure resulting in 8 to 12 rhythmic, involuntary muscular contractions in the pelvic region that last for about 20 seconds, followed by feelings of resolution and euphoria. The two hallmarks of orgasm are experiencing that involuntary series of pelvic contractions and post-orgasmic drowsiness. However, it is important to know that you can have a satisfying sexual experience without having an orgasm.

How can I embrace my sexuality without a partner?

Embracing your sexuality is an essential aspect of being a whole human being, and it doesn’t require a partner. Just as you prioritize optimizing your physical, mental, and spiritual health, embracing your sexuality deserves the same attention and care. This process often involves recognizing and addressing the socialized shame surrounding sexuality, as well as unwinding the conditioning that has been unknowingly internalized.

Ultimately, this journey is primarily a solo exploration of the self.

What medical procedures could impact my clitoris and sexual health?

Broadly, there are many procedures that could impact your clitoris and sexual sensation. Any procedure from your belly button to your thighs could potentially affect your clitoral nerves and blood supply. It’s important to inquire about risks to sexual function before undergoing a medical procedure, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Procedures that involve the vulva—such as vulvar biopsies and labioplasty, a vulvectomy (partial or radical), vaginoplasty, clitoral hood reduction, monsplasty, and vestibulectomy.

• Procedures in the pelvic region—such as surgeries on or around the uterus, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the vagina, the bladder, or the rectum.

• Procedures around the hip, spine, and pelvis.

What questions should I ask my doctor to protect my clitoris before a procedure?

It's crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of any procedure, especially knowing that female pleasure anatomy is often not emphasized in medical training and most surgeons are not required to have specialized training to safeguard clitoral sensation and function. To ensure your doctor understands clitoral anatomy and to protect your clitoris from potential surgical harm, consider asking your surgeon the following questions: 

1. What risks to clitoral sensation are associated with this surgery? Inquire specifically about risks to sexual function, as consent forms often lack information on these potential complications.

2. Have any of your patients experienced a decrease in clitoral sensitivity or difficulty achieving orgasm after this procedure? Past patient outcomes are important for understanding potential complications.

3. What measures do you take to preserve clitoral nerve and blood supply during the surgery? Inquire about techniques used to safeguard the clitoris during the procedure.

4. Can you provide references or resources for me to learn more about clitoral anatomy and surgical considerations? If they have references on hand, this might suggest they are aware of clitoral function as it relates to your specific surgery.

How can you urinate with a tampon inserted?

While the answer to this question may seem obvious, it is one that is frequently asked, highlighting a lack of understanding of female genital anatomy. The reality is that you can urinate with a tampon inserted because the tampon is designed to absorb menstrual flow rather than block the urethra, which is the tube through which urine exits the body. This allows for normal urination even when a tampon is in place.