Is there really a vaginal orgasm?

It's been decades since the sexual revolution but many women remain anxious in bed because they're worried they're not having the right kind of orgasm, some leading sex therapists say.
The anxiety is based on the notion that women can experience distinct types of orgasms, including vaginal orgasms and clitoral orgasms.
It's long been a popular idea that a vaginal orgasm is desirable because it's supposed to be more intense and because it's more likely to occur during intercourse with a partner.
But the notion there is a distinct 'vaginal orgasm' that is different to any other kind of orgasm is incorrect, many say.
(A recent paper on the subject also dismissed this notion.)
Sexologist and author Dr Vivienne Cass says the bulk of research suggests there is only one 'orgasm response' in women.
"There's not a separate thing called a vaginal orgasm," says Cass, adjunct associate professor in Curtin University's department of public health sexology program.
"I would say there's not a vaginal orgasm, there's not a clitoral orgasm, there's physiologically just one orgasm response. But there are many different ways women can experience that – where they feel it, what they feel, what they feel about it. And there are women who can have an orgasm without being touched at all."
Rosemary Coates, also an associate professor in sexology at Curtin University and past president of the World Association for Sexual Health, agrees and says for the past 40 years she's taught that orgasms are triggered through the clitoris.
"However, there are physiological changes that take place in the vulva including the vagina and the uterus. Some women feel the rhythmic spasms in these areas during orgasm."
But if women want to call certain orgasms vaginal orgasms, some experts have no problem with it.
"I think we should stop having these distinctions because it's just academic verbal bandying really," says NSW president of the Society of Australian Sexologists and former GP Dr Margaret Redelman. "In the practical sense of helping women enjoy their sexuality, we create a problem. Women say 'I'm not having orgasms the right way' and I think that's very damaging."
Clitoris is more than meets the eye
The term vaginal orgasm has been used to describe the orgasm some women have when they are receiving stimulation only from penetration of the vagina.
Some women report that this orgasm feels different from the orgasm they have when they are stimulated more directly through the external part of their clitoris, the glans, which sits a small distance above the entrance to the vagina.
It used to be thought this so-called "magic button" – that contains around 6,000 to 8,000 nerve endings and is highly pleasurably when touched the right way – was the entire clitoris.
But since the late 1990s, it's been known that the clitoris is actually much larger; the glans is just the external tip but there is other tissue that extends deeper inside the body, and wraps around the vagina and the urethra, the tube through which urine passes from the bladder to the outside.
Both the internal and external parts of the clitoris are made of erectile tissue which swells with blood when a woman is aroused.
So being able to have an orgasm through penetration of the vagina alone does not mean there is no involvement of the clitoris.
Yes, yes, yes
Both Cass and Redelman believe the vagina itself is not a very sensitive organ and say it has relatively few nerve endings. But certain sex positions can enhance clitoral stimulation.
Also, Cass says "there are short ligaments that join the clitoral hood [the fold of skin surrounding the glans] to the vulva, so when the vulva's being incidentally moved during penetration, that is actually stimulating the glans of the clitoris."

She adds that some women find the pressure of intercourse, both on the vaginal walls and through the walls onto the internal parts of the clitoris and other tissues, perhaps including the cervix, is enough to bring them to orgasm.
"But when we talk about clitoral stimulation, usually people are talking about touching on the outside of the body and the truth is most women do need that."
Redelman agrees women vary greatly in their sensitivity to sexual stimuli: "Some women can be sitting on the bus on the way to work and flex their thighs and have an orgasm."
I'll have what she's having
Many now see the distinction between a 'vaginal' and a 'clitoral' orgasm as artificial and unhelpful.
Cass says research and surveys suggests only around 30 per cent of women can orgasm "just through penetration of some sort" but she believes this may be an overestimate because some of the studies were not high quality.
Says Coates: "The myth of a vaginal orgasm was based on [psychoanalyst Sigmund] Freud's rather misogynistic views on women's sexuality. Up until the 1960s, various 'experts' assumed that women who did not experience an orgasm during vaginal intercourse were immature.
"In fact, when the anatomy of the vulva is clearly understood [along with] the biomechanics of the sex act, particularly in heterosexual 'missionary' position, one can easily see how a lack of appropriate stimulation of the clitoris will result in difficulty in obtaining orgasm."
Nonetheless the quest to climax during sexual intercourse remains.
"Women come to me and say they can't orgasm," says Cass. "But then I find out they actually can very easily have an orgasm, they just aren't having one during intercourse. That pressure is there."
"Some people are fixated on this: 'My partner has to have an orgasm through intercourse'," Redelman says. "But of course that kind of pressure actually almost guarantees that she's not going to do it."
Both she and Cass believe couples can be taught ways to provide extra stimulation during intercourse. But focusing too much on this can be harmful.
"The primary thing is to enjoy lovemaking," Redelman says. "The brain is the biggest sex organ. If you're doing things together that give you sexual arousal... to me that's perfect lovemaking.
"I think we should just let women be different, be individuals. However they arrive at orgasm, that's the right way to do it for them."

What Is Female Orgasm? Know the Types and Facts About It

What is Female Orgasm?
Female orgasm is an abrupt discharge of accumulated sexual tension in females. Orgasm is the climax part of the sexual response cycle. During orgasm, muscular contractions occur in the pelvic region followed by intense sexual pleasure. Typical female orgasm results from sexual stimulation of the clitoris.
Orgasm offers one of the best feelings for both male and female. Orgasm is defined as the climax of sexual intercourse. Women are able to have multiple orgasms in a rapid succession, and the study proves it. On the other hand, men are not able to have multiple orgasms in a rapid succession. In this article, we’re going to discuss the 10 most explosive female orgasms, which is a very interesting topic.
What are the Facts About Female Orgasms?
Most women achieve orgasm after about 20 minutes of clitoral stimulation.
Approximately 24-37% of women cannot achieve orgasm.
Orgasm relieves menstrual cramps and alleviates stress due to the surge in Oxytocin.
Masturbating helps women in learning how to achieve an orgasm.
Cognitive behavioral therapy and natural herbs with aphrodisiac properties help treat orgasmic related problems in women.
What are the Different Types of Female Orgasm?
Clitoral Orgasm – The clitoris is the king of sexual sensation. With 8,000 nerve endings, this external small organ is the most sensitive part of the female’s external body parts.
Vaginal Orgasm – Direct penetration is the second way to achieve an orgasm.
Blended Orgasm – Is the most pleasurable because it includes all sex-stimulating machines, the clitoris and the vagina.
10 Most Explosive Female Orgasms
You may be surprised to know, but there is more than one type of female orgasms. It sounds strange, but it’s the fact. Let’s take a look at the 10 most explosive female orgasms every woman would love to achieve.
1. Vaginal Orgasm
It’s not men who are controlling women’s orgasm and the type of orgasms. Sometimes, it’s depended upon biology. Women who have a shorter distance between their urethral meatus and clitoris are more likely to experience this type of orgasm.
2. Clitoral Orgasm
Clitoral Orgasm, type of orgasm is the easiest orgasm for women to achieve. The clitoris is surrounded by thousands of nerve fibers. This is the reason why this type of orgasm is so much more common among women.
3. G-Spot OrgasmG-Spot Orgasm! You heard it right. It’s G-Spot Orgasm, and it’s one of the types of female orgasm. This female orgasm sounds difficult, and it’s actually difficult for women to achieve this orgasm. G-Spot indicates the frontal region of the vagina. To be more precise, this indicates the area between the cervix and the pubic bone. This area is pretty sensitive, and it even has the ability to make some women ejaculate.
4. A-Spot Orgasm






A-Spot Orgasm follows up after the G-Spot Orgasm. A female orgasm is really strange, isn’t it? This type of orgasm is quite possible for women to achieve. This orgasm is not popular among women, but it will definitely make you feel good. To achieve this orgasm, the stimulation in the 7-10 cm of the frontal area of your vagina is enough.
5. Breast Orgasm
For those women who are struggling to achieve an orgasm, this type of orgasm may seem impossible for them. However, the study shows that it’s possible to achieve this type of orgasm. It could be achieved with the stimulation of the breasts.
6. Oral Orgasm
Oral Orgasm seems even more impossible than breast orgasm. This type of orgasm is not very easy to achieve. However, there are incidents where some women have been able to experience sensation in their mouth.
What do you mean by sensation in the mouth? You must be questioning this to yourself. It’s true that mouth is not regarded as a sexual organ. However, there are women who have very sensitive mouths. Their mouths are so sensitive that they are able to feel the heat in their mouth during the climax.
The chance of achieving this type of orgasm depends upon the sensitivity of the woman’s mouth.
7. Deep Spot Orgasm
Women can achieve this orgasm with the stimulation of the vagina’s back wall, which is just before the cervix. It’s easier to explain this orgasm, but may not be easy enough to achieve.
8. U-Spot OrgasmG-Spot Orgasm, A-Spot Orgasm, and now we will discuss of U-Spot Orgasm. This type of orgasm is difficult to master, but it can be achieved. One can get this type of orgasm with the stimulation of both the sides of the urethra opening.
9. Skin Orgasm
Anything from massage or facial can lead to a skin orgasm. However, this type of orgasm is seen only among fewer people.
10. Mental Orgasm
This is a weird type of orgasm. It occurs when you’re highly focused in sexual activities. This type of orgasm occurs even without a sexual intercourse or even without touching. Some women experience it just by watching X-rated movies or by watching others involved in intercourse.
What Does An Orgasm Feel Like?
An orgasm is an intense pleasurable feeling in the genital area that spreads to the rest of the body at the same time. When a woman is turned on, hormones accumulate and muscle tension builds up around the pelvis, which releases during an orgasm. The result is muscle tension release and an intense pleasure feeling.
What If I’ve Never Had An Orgasm?
If you’ve never had an orgasm, there is no reason to panic. Lack of orgasm during sex isn’t news to some women. The good news is that, you can learn to have an orgasm. Women are different when it comes to achieving an orgasm. On the other hand, your partner plays a big role in turning you on. Therefore, discuss incorporating foreplay orgasm in your sexual routine as this is said to be crucial to women in achieving an orgasm. Also, explore sexual positions that make it easier for you to achieve an orgasm.
How Can I Orgasm With a Partner?
You can experience sufficient orgasm through vaginal intercourse, cunnilingus (oral sex) or masturbation. However, physical sexual stimulation of the clitoris by your partner is the most effective and satisfying way to have orgasm. Most women require manual, consistence and intense clitoral touch to achieve orgasm. Direct vaginal penetration is also sufficient in achieving an orgasm. Climaxing at the same time with your partner can be exciting and bring you closer together. This is difficult to achieve as men generally orgasm faster than women. The best way to orgasm with your partner is to ensure that you are sufficiently turned on through foreplay and to have poses in between sex to postpone your partner’s orgasm.
Are You Having Trouble Reaching Orgasm?
If you’re having troubles reaching orgasm, you’re not alone because this is a common problem. Achieving the elusive orgasm is not automatic. It needs time, a lot of intense stimulation and may require both physical and psychological stimulation.
Is Female Orgasm Important for Getting Pregnant?
You can conceive without having to achieve an orgasm. This is the reason why most studies about women’s orgasm has never been an important topic in sex medicine until the resent years. Getting pregnant is a different goal compared to having an orgasm. However, there are statistics showing a positive relationship between orgasm and conception due to the fact that orgasm increases Oxytocin hormone which is responsible for uterine wall contractions that coax sperms towards the ovary.
Is it Possible to Delay Female Orgasm?
Delaying female orgasm is possible. Some women can take up to an hour to achieve an orgasm. This depends with your desire and your goal. You can have penetrative sex for a whole hour without achieving an orgasm. This is because most orgasms are achieved through clitoral stimulation rather than vaginal penetration.
How Women too Suffer From Premature Orgasms?
In recent days, premature orgasm has been classified as a female sexual dysfunction because it too can causes serious distress. If you orgasm too early, your partner will be left feeling dissatisfied and resentful. Hence, a premature orgasm can frustrate and distress women.
How to Boost Female Orgasm with Natural Libido Enhancers?
There are a number of natural libido enhancers but one needs to find the most appropriate product. Natural dietary supplements and herbal libido enhancements can help you get back to a healthy sex life. These products have aphrodisiac ingredients that increase libido in women.
Orgasms vary in intensity and frequency. The amount of stimulation required also varies from woman to woman. One of the best ways to cure an orgasmic problem is exploring your body alone. Do this when there is no pressure around. You can explore your body especially your genitals to discover your most sensitive parts. Since no one will rush you when alone, try to experiment different sensation methods, fantasize about what turns you on, masturbate and with time you will be achieving more orgasms. Learning how to orgasm might not give you immediate results. It takes time and requires consistency. When learning, you can also involve your partner since he contributes a greater percentage in making you achieve a pleasurable orgasm.
Conclusion
Which one of these orgasms is your favorite one? I guess all. It’s because every single of these orgasms provides a wonderful experience. Every single woman would love to have at least one of these orgasms in their lifetime.
The statistics show that only 25% of the women are able to consistently reach orgasm during vaginal intercourse, which is not a good thing. If you’re having a trouble with not having a satisfying orgasm, then you can search for the ways to improve your orgasm. Yes, it’s possible, and it will help you to enhance your sex life.
 You can also give a try to female enhancement product such as V-Tight Gel, which may help you get aroused more.

Blended Orgasms: What They Are and How to Have Them

Ready to have multiple orgasms at once?
The vaginal orgasm is often elusive, but people with clitorises and vaginas are seriously blessed. Tricks and toys can help master it (hint: number one trick is patience), and it’s possible to achieve multiple versions of orgasm — at the same time. We’re talking vaginal, clitoral, anal, and erogenous.
But lately a different kind of orgasm is making its way into the sex dialect: the blended orgasm.


 What is a blended orgasm?
A blended orgasm is defined as a clitoral and vaginal orgasm that happens at the same time. So, yes, it’s technically two simultaneous orgasms that tend to result in a more intense, full-body response.
This means the first step of having a blended orgasm is being able to stimulate both the clitoris and vagina at the same time, which isn’t as hard as it sounds.
First, you need to understand how vaginal and clitoral orgasms work.
Vaginal orgasms usually involve hitting the G-spot, which is located on the inner wall of the vagina. Stimulating the G-spot with regular pressure can lead to orgasm.
ResearchersTrusted Source have also found via ultrasound that the G-spot is likely so sensitive because it’s part of the clitoral network: the clitoral root is located right behind the anterior vaginal wall. So, hitting the G-spot can also stimulate part of the clitoris.
For a clitoral orgasm, orgasms occur when pressure and repetitive motion are applied to a wet (often achieved with lube) clitoris. The clitoris is a nerve-filled organ located at the top of the vulva that extends down inside the labia. It’s larger than assumed.
The repetitive up and down or circular motion to achieve orgasm can be done using (wet) fingers, palm, or tongue, depending on what your partner prefers.

How does it feel?
A blended orgasm can be summarized as ah-mazing — and more intense than just vaginal or clitoral orgasms alone.
Since both the vagina and clitoris are both being stimulated, a blended orgasm may trigger anything from involuntary movements that mimic convulsion to female ejaculation in some cases. (This happens when the G-spot is stimulated, causing the Skene’s glands on either side of the urethra to also be stimulated.)
But you should also know what clitoral and vaginal orgasms may look or feel like on their own:
Clitoral orgasms are often felt on the surface of the body, like a tingly feeling along your skin and in your brain.
Vaginal orgasms are deeper in the body and can be felt by the person penetrating the vagina because the vaginal walls will pulse.
No orgasm is the same, though. How your body lets go can range from a soft sigh to a powerful release. When it comes to chasing orgasms, it’s best not to have sex with an end goal in mind.
But if you feel comfortable with your partner and want to have a go at a blended orgasm, read on for some some tips.



 How to achieve a blended orgasm
Even if you know how to get yourself off both ways, a blended orgasm is going to take practice. Some tips? Relax and go in with the intention of achieving pleasure and not specifically a type of orgasm.
Don’t feel like you need to start by stimulating both the G-spot and clitoris at the same time, either. If one part takes longer to peak, focus there first. And in the case of first-timers, time is also your friend (don’t plan on rushing to work after!).
Solo
To achieve a blended orgasm on your own, start vaginally by finding the G-spot:
1.Using your fingers or a sex toy, lift upward toward your belly button in a “come hither” motion.
2.Repeat the motion as the sensation builds, and — instead of an in-and-out movement — you’ll want to keep focusing your attention on this area.
3.With your other hand, start to work the clitoris. If you need to add lube, go for it!
4.Apply fast and hard pressure in a repetitive motion using your fingers or palm, moving back and forth or circular.
Vibrators are also a great way to stimulate your G-spot and clitoris, especially if reaching both seems like a lot of work.
Partnered
If you have a partner, you can tell them the best way to reach your G-spot is with hands first. Mimic that “come hither” motion toward your belly button before any type of penetration begins.
Your partner can also use their mouth and tongue to stimulate the clitoris. They can start kissing the area, then use the tip of their tongue to lick, starting slow and increasing speed and pressure as well as movement, like up and down or circular.
During penetration, one of the best positions to achieve clitoral stimulation is called the “riding high” position.
To try this, lie on your back. Your partner should angle their penis or sex toy so the upper shaft rubs against your clitoris as they thrust. Each thrust should slide your hood up and down, or provide enough pressure over the hood to stimulate your clitoris.
Remember, every body is different. If these popular sex positions don’t work, there are always small alterations you can try to hit the right spots.
Also, no pressure for your blended orgasm to be clitoral and vaginal at the same time. In our book, any combo of orgasm (be it anal or even nipple!) is a pleasure win.

 Trust your gut with the facts
A 2016 studyTrusted Source found that on average, 54 percent of women achieve orgasm through clitoral and vaginal stimulation, compared to 34 percent who orgasmed via only clitoral stimulation and 6 percent who orgasmed via only vaginal stimulation.
And first-timers? Trust your gut: You know the difference between clitoral and vaginal orgasms.
According to a 2016 reviewTrusted Source on the history of clitoral and vaginal orgasms, two studies done in the 1970s found that sexually active women did know the difference between clitoral and vaginal orgasms.
Through self-reported accounts, the women described a clitoral orgasm as “localized, intense and physically satisfying, whereas a vaginal orgasm was described as stronger and longer lasting than clitoral orgasm, ‘deeper,’ a ‘whole body’ sensation with throbbing feelings, and more psychologically satisfying.”
Now imagine how both happening at the same time.

How Many Times Can Someone with a Vagina Come in a Row?

How many times?
A person who has a vagina may be able to come anywhere from one to five times in a single session from any type of stimulation.
Some people suggest that this figure may be even higher.
You may be able to meet or even best these numbers, but every person is different. One may be enough, or you may desire a few.
However, ejaculation and orgasm — with masturbation or partner sex — should never hurt. If you experience pain, pump the brakes.
Read on to learn more about why some people can have more than one orgasm, why that isn’t the same thing as ejaculation, and more.


Having multiple orgasms in a single session is actually fairly common
For many people, achieving one orgasm during a sexual encounter is sufficient.
For others, the romp may not be finished until a few more tally marks are on the board. Each person is different.
One small studyTrusted Source found that more than one-third of participants reported having multiple orgasms.
So it is possible to have, and many people do experience, multiple orgasms in one single session.
This may be achieved through a wide variety of erogenous touch, including clitoral stimulation and vaginal or anal penetration.

That’s because most folks with vulvas have a shorter refractory period
Individuals who have a vagina have a bit of an evolutionary advantage over people with penises: They can “recover” faster from an ejaculation or orgasm.
This recovery period is also known as a refractory period.
In the seconds and minutes after ejaculation or orgasm, your body sends out a rush of neurotransmitters that help it stabilize.
After that period of time passes, you may be able to achieve orgasm or ejaculation again.
This allows you to be orgasm-ready in a shorter period of time than someone who has a penis.


It also depends on what you mean by ‘come’
Ejaculation and orgasm are frequently conflated as one event, but it’s possible to orgasm without ejaculating or vice versa.
An orgasm is an intense surge in sensitivity and sensations.
Muscles contract, heart rate increases, and blood pressures rises. The pleasure is quite intense, and it usually precedes ejaculation.
For folks with a vagina, ejaculation occurs when a liquid is expelled from the urethra during sexual arousal.
In a volunteer sampleTrusted Source from 1984, about 126 out of 233 vulva-having participants (54 percent) said they’d experienced ejaculation at least once.
However, what’s common for one person may not be for another, so don’t stress it if you’ve never experienced this before.


There’s also a difference between having multiple Os and stacking them
Some people experience several distinct orgasms in one session. They may be separated by several minutes or more.
Others may experience a continuous orgasmic state, also known as “stacking orgasms.”
This state of hyperarousal is difficult to achieve, but if you’re up for playing around and trying things, it may be worth the effort.

If you want to go for more than one O, try this
Getting to the point where you can have multiple orgasms can take some time, but these techniques may help.
Give edging a shot
Also known as the start-stop method, edging brings you to the brink — or edge — of orgasm. Then you stop what you’re doing.
You can do other activities, as long as they don’t cause an orgasm. You can wait a few minutes for your body to cool down, then begin again.
This form of orgasm control may help you have a more pleasurable orgasm, as well as increase your stamina so you can better control your orgasm in any session.
But keep in mind, the more you delay, the more sensitive you may become. That can make stopping in time difficult.
Explore other stimuli
Despite what TV and other media may suggest, few people are able to climax through vaginal penetration alone. Clitoral stimulation is usually needed to reach the finish line.
You may also find it beneficial to explore other erogenous options, like nipple play, foot massage, or even anal penetration for deep A-spot stimulation.
Tell yourself you’ll climax more than once
In the world of orgasms, sometimes mind beats matter.
If you approach each session with a mindset that allows you to relax and enjoy what’s happening, you may find that the excitement of play and experimentation increases your overall relaxation and heightens your sensitivity.

If you want to go for more than one ejaculation, try this
It is possible to ejaculate more than once. As with having more than one orgasm, getting to this point may take time — but the journey can be half the fun.
Practice Kegels
Do this several times per day. You may begin to notice a difference in both stamina, sensation, and ejaculation control as the muscles develop more.
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can have a lot of positive benefits, from helping you control urination to increasing sensation during sexual activity.
A basic Kegel exercise requires you to flex your muscles as if you were trying to hold urination or cut it off mid-stream, then hold that contraction for at least 5 seconds.
Gradually increase how long you can hold this contraction — up to 20 seconds or so — to increase strength.
Avoid masturbating
The longer you go without masturbation or partner sex, the more sensitive you’ll be to simulation.
Increased stimulation may make it easier to ejaculate more than once.
Skip a few days of sex or self-play, and the tension may be enough to help you increase your numbers.

If you want to go for a continuous O, try this
Stacking orgasms may take a great deal of practice, and not everyone will be able to do it. That’s OK!
Enjoy the ride and see where it takes you.
1.Go ahead and have that first orgasm, but instead of basking in the afterglow for too long, prepare for another.
2.Begin stimulation again just as the first rush of orgasm starts to subside. You may need to vary the technique or location of stimulation. Keep going as you approach the next surge of arousal.
3.With each climax, decrease sensitivity for a few seconds, but don’t let off. The key to stacking orgasms is to keep stimulation or penetration going in order to ride a wave of continuous orgasms.

Are there any risks to orgasming or ejaculating more frequently?
Nope!
Having multiple orgasms or ejaculating several times in a row isn’t risky, but you can irritate your vulva or clitoral hood with too much rubbing or friction. Your vaginal muscles may become sore from penetration too.
Vary your stimulation techniques to reduce friction, and use lube to prevent discomfort.
Don’t be shy with the lube either! Use as much as it takes to cut down on any friction.

The bottom line
Having multiple orgasms or ejaculations can be a lot of fun, but it’s not the only way to prolong your sexual sessions. If you think your romps are too brief, explore other ways to make sex last longer.
Above all else, be open to your body’s unique capabilities and sensations. Listen to it through the process, and have fun!

Twins shed light on female orgasm

The ability of a woman to have orgasms during sex is partly influenced by her genetic make-up, say UK researchers. A study of twins, published in the Royal Society journal Biology Letters, estimates that an inability to achieve orgasm during masturbation is even more strongly controlled by genes. The team, based at St Thomas' hospital in London, suggest that reaching an orgasm could help women assess the suitability of a man as a long term partner.
The researchers studied 4037 adult twin women, aged between 19 and 83. Scientists have studied twins for many years, in order to measure the influence of genes and environment on a wide range of traits. They compare identical twins, who have identical genes and similar backgrounds, with non-identical twins - who also share similar backgrounds, but are no more genetically alike than ordinary siblings. In this way, researchers can estimate how much of the variation seen for a particular characteristic is accounted for by genes - a measure of heritability.
The St Thomas' team surveyed the women about sexual problems, and found that overall, 32 per cent reported 'never' or 'infrequently' achieving orgasm during sexual intercourse, while 21 per cent reported they did not achieve orgasms during masturbation. There was no difference between the identical and non-identical twins for this category. However, for women who did achieve orgasm, the frequency of orgasms was more likely to be the same for pairs of identical twins than it was for non-identical twins.

The researchers estimated that the ability to achieve orgasm during sex is 34 per cent heritable, while during masturbation it is 45 per cent heritable. Team leader Tim Spector says the study shows that there is an underlying biological basis to a woman's ability to achieve orgasm, which could be anatomical, physiological or psychological. He suggests that such a trait could have been selected during human evolution: 'If a man is considered powerful enough, strong enough or thoughtful enough in bed or in the cave, then he's likely to hang around as a long-term partner and be a better bet for bringing up children', he said.
However, experts disagree over the evolutionary reasons for the female orgasm, with one theory suggesting that it increases sperm uptake, and thus fertility. Even if the findings of the latest study are confirmed, it does not necessarily mean that any of the genes involved will be identified - there are likely to be many genetic and non-genetic influences on such a trait. But Spector says more research into the subject could lead to new drugs to treat female sexual dysfunction.

Evolutionary mystery of female orgasm deepens

(Image: Nacivet/Photographer's Choice/Getty)

Whence the female orgasm? After 40 years of debate evolutionary biologists are no closer to deciding whether it evolved to give women a reproductive boost, or whether it is simply a by-product of male orgasm evolution. The latest attempt to settle the dispute involves quizzing some 10,000 twins and pairs of siblings on their sexual habits.
Some evolutionary biologists reckon the female orgasm is adaptive and possibly influences mate choice, strengthens pair bonds or indirectly helps to suck sperm into the uterus. Others argue that women have orgasms for the same reason that men have nipples – being highly adaptive in one sex, the traits tag along for the ride in the other.
Brendan Zietsch at the University of Queensland, Australia, and Pekka Santtila at Abo Akademi University in Turku, Finland, think they can help to settle the question. If female orgasm is a simple by-product of male orgasm, the duo argue, then similar genes would underlie orgasmic function in both men and women. As a consequence, opposite-sex twins and siblings will share more similarities in their susceptibility to orgasm – “orgasmability” as Zietsch calls it – than pairs of unrelated people.

Timing’s everything

To measure this orgasmability, the researchers used survey data from just under 5000 sets of identical and non-identical twins and pairs of regular siblings. The questionnaire asked about the time to orgasm in men and the frequency and ease of orgasm in women.
In keeping with previous findings, Zietsch and Santtila found that same-sex identical twins had more orgasmic similarity than same-sex non-identical twins and siblings, showing that genes do play a role in orgasmic function and apparently providing some evidence that the by-product scenario might be correct.
However, contrary to the expectations of the by-product scenario, the two researchers found that opposite-sex twins and siblings had virtually no correlation in orgasmability.

Premature extrapolation

“This indicates that the genes that influence orgasmic function in men are not the same as those in women,” says Zietsch. In other words, male and female orgasm evolved through different genetic routes, and the by-product hypothesis is incorrect.
Those who favour the by-product hypothesis think such a firm conclusion is premature. Kim Wallen at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, points out that the study measured different things in men and women – timing to orgasm versus likelihood of orgasm – and so a correlation would be unlikely. Zietsch counters that different measures were necessary because of the different nature of male and female orgasm.

“Of course, it’s possible that different questions would reveal different results,” says David Puts, a behavioural anthropologist at Pennsylvania State University in University Park, who places himself in the adaptive camp. “But this study certainly isn’t helping the by-product theory.”


Read more: https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20894-evolutionary-mystery-of-female-orgasm-deepens/#ixzz6OjnM8c9u

The orgasm gap and what sex-ed did not teach you

There is a clear disparity between men and women when it comes to achieving orgasm; a phenomenon scientists call the orgasm gap.
Studying orgasms is no easy task. We work as psychology of sexual behaviour researchers in the lab of Dr. James Pfaus at Concordia University and were interested to explore the “controversy” of clitoral versus vaginal orgasms.
We conducted a literature review on the current state of the evidence and different perspectives on how this phenomenon occurs in women. Particularly, the nature of a woman’s orgasm has been a source of scientific, political and cultural debate for over a century. Although science has an idea of what orgasms are, we are still quite uncertain as to how they occur.
Orgasms are one of the few phenomena that occur as a result of a highly complex interaction of several physiological and psychological systems all at once. While there may be evolutionary reasons why men are more likely to orgasm during sex, we shouldn’t doom ourselves to this idea. Indeed, part of the problem lies in what happens in the bedroom.
We all have different preferences when it comes to what we like in bed. But one commonality we share is that we know when we orgasm and when we do not. We don’t always orgasm every time we have sex, and that can be just fine, because we may have sex for many different reasons. However, studies repeatedly show that women reach climax less often than men do during sexual encounters together.
For example, a national survey conducted in the United States showed that women reported one orgasm for every three from men. Heterosexual males said they achieved orgasm usually or always during sexual intimacy, 95 per cent of the time.
The gap appears to become narrower among homosexual and bisexual people, where 89 per cent of gay males, 88 per cent bisexual males, 86 per cent lesbian women, and 66 per cent of bisexual women orgasm during sexual interactions.
When we take a closer look at what might explain the orgasm gap, we can see the type of relationship we have with our partner matters. If you are in an established committed relationship, the gap tends to close, but it widens during casual sex.
That is, women in a committed relationship report reaching an orgasm as often as 86 per cent of the time, whereas women in casual sex encounters report they orgasm only 39 per cent of the time. Furthermore, heterosexual women achieve orgasm easily and regularly through masturbation.
Likewise, the more knowledge about the female genitalia (especially about the clitoris) the partner has, the higher the likelihood is for women to orgasm more frequently. Finally, and most importantly, the respondents reported the most reliable practice to achieve an orgasm for women is oral sex.
We don’t know why this gap occurs in casual sex versus sex in a committed relationship, but part of it might be how we communicate what we want sexually, what we expect sexually and attitudes toward sexual pleasure.

What sex-ed did not teach you
Formal education teaches us a vast amount of relevant topics in school, yet sexual education has been and is still a matter of (moral) debate. For many of us, sexual education covered reproductive biology and how not to get pregnant or contract sexually transmitted infections.
Sex-ed has been focused on preventing kids from having sex. “Always use condoms” was sometimes the most progressive sex-ed message. Education is now progressing into teaching what sex is about and how to engage in ethical and respectful sex, but that is still not the whole picture. How about pleasure or how to have fun and to explore what we like, how to communicate to our partners and many other crucial aspects of intimate life?
The key to the ultimate goal of enjoying ourselves is to know what you and your partner want and how to satisfy each other. Consequently, incomplete and biased sex education fails both men and women, omitting the fact sex is not only for reproduction but also for enjoyment.
Maybe the first thing we should learn about sex is that it is one of the favourite pastimes of adults. Preventing it from happening will only increase the likelihood of future generations engaging in it more, only with less knowledge about to how get the most out of it.
Some advice for sexual partners
Our first reaction to the orgasm gap may be to point fingers and find someone to blame: Cultural attitudes, religion, society, the educational system, your ex. Certainly, anyone would agree that the gap is a multifactorial phenomenon.
Statistics do not count when it comes to your own intimacy. In bed, it’s you and your partner(s), and that is what matters. We cannot create nor do we trigger orgasms in our partners. We can only help to make them easier, more fun and more enjoyable for them.
Even if you may have a good idea of what your partner may want in bed, what people like varies a great deal. Thus, understanding what a partner wants, how, when, where, or for how long, requires openness, trust and, most importantly, communication.
These key ingredients may be what’s missing in both casual and long-term encounters. We could all be more open and humble, and acknowledge that with a good attitude and a good teacher, everyone gets better at it.
Your sexual prowess and ability to satisfy grows with practice; it goes without saying that our sexual lives should improve beyond previous negative experiences.
There may be very few things in this world that perhaps all people in this world enjoy, and orgasms are among them. But the enjoyment of sex is not the race to climb to the top of the mountain. Instead, it is the enjoyment of getting there.
So what can you do? Talk, be confident and pay attention to your partner.
Satisfaction means very different things for different people. What really matters is what you and your partner(s) want. Shattering the climax glass ceiling is a team effort. Sex is fun — and everyone has something to learn about it.

Why the clitoris doesn’t get the attention it deserves – and why this matters

Did you know the clitoris is a large and complex organ? If not, it’s probably not your fault: in anatomical textbooks, few words and diagrams are devoted to understanding the clitoris. Most label the very small portion of the organ visible on diagrams of the vulva, when in fact it’s almost entirely under the skin.
Studies of historical anatomical textbooks have shown that depictions of the clitoris were significantly limited and often omitted completely from the mid-19th into the 20th century.
During these times there were ideologies and subsequent theories relating to women’s bodies that likely encouraged and sustained censorship of the clitoris. For instance, there was Freud’s now defunct theory that clitoral stimulation was a sign of sexual immaturity and neurosis. Women were also taught not to enjoy sex; women had sex for reproductive purposes, while men had sex for pleasure.
These fallacies led to the neglect of the clitoris in research, literature and the public domain.
Although more recent research and feminist lobbying have improved the quality of information on the clitoris in current textbooks, most texts are still brief. These include minimal information, or information only on the external portion of the clitoris (the glans). This brevity has impacts on health care for women with clitoral and related pain.
What is the clitoris?
The clitoris lies at the junction of the labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva), just above the urethra. It is made up of four main parts: the glans, body, two crura and two bulbs. The glans is the only external part of the clitoris and is covered by a hood of skin.
The body, corpora, crura and bulbs of the clitoris are all made up of erectile tissue and converge below the glans. The body of the clitoris is generally 1-2cm wide and 2-4cm long.
The crura extend laterally from the body of the clitoris and are on average around 5-9cm long. The bulbs of the clitoris are generally 3-7cm long and lie between the body, crura and the urethra.
The clitoris is highly innervated, with twice as many nerve endings as the penis, and receives a rich blood supply. This rich blood supply allows the erectile components to swell up, with the body and glans of the clitoris becoming up to three times larger during arousal – and you thought a penile erection was impressive!

Foetus genital and reproductive organs are differentiated at six weeks’ gestation. While the clitoris and penis arise from the same group of cells in a zygote, we now know they clearly have different forms and functions.
The penis has an obvious and well-researched role in the reproductive and urinary systems, while the function of the clitoris is usually stated as being purely for pleasure.
However, few studies have actually investigated the function of the clitoris. The close proximity of the clitoris to the urethra and vagina has led to suggestions that it plays a much larger role than sexual pleasure, such as assisting in maintaining immune health.
What we don’t know can hurt us
Censoring the clitoris in textbooks means doctors and other health-care professionals won’t be equipped to treat patients with clitoral concerns. Women are at risk of sexual dysfunction (such as lack of desire or arousal, decreased lubrication, inability to orgasm) from operations on their urinary and reproductive organs. This shows doctors need more in-depth knowledge, and we need further research into understanding the anatomy of the clitoris.
Because of its delicate yet complex make-up, the clitoris is prone to infections, inflammation and diseases. Some common examples are itching and soreness due to thrush infections, swelling due to bruising or inflammation, and pain of unknown origin (called clitorodynia).
Although it is not often spoken about, clitoral and vulvar pain are very common in women.
Educating patients about their condition can improve pain outcomes. Yet this may be difficult for doctors treating conditions such as clitorodynia, given they may not be receiving adequate information about the clitoris themselves.
On average, one-third of university-aged women are unable to find the clitoris on a diagram. We frequently use synonyms of females’ reproductive organs as derogatory terms (“pussy” to mean weak, “cunt” to mean an unpleasant person) and many women are often not comfortable using anatomically correct terms.
More than 65% of women say they feel uneasy using the terms vagina and vulva. Instead they use code names such as “lady parts”, even when discussing gynaecological issues with their doctors.
Given there is evidence to suggest our sense of body ownership can influence pain, perhaps this lack of body ownership over the clitoris helps to explain why conditions such as clitorodynia are common.

Do birth control pills cause brain aneurysms?

Alice,
Sadly, today I found out that a friend of my family has just passed away. The cause of her sudden death was a brain aneurysm. I have been researching brain aneurysms and have found out that oral contraceptives are thought to sometimes cause them. I am 19 and I am taking birth control, and now I am very worried. Can you give me some statistics about brain aneurysms linked to oral contraceptives? Thank you.

Dear Reader,
The sudden loss of a loved one can raise all sorts of scary questions, but rest assured that medical research has shown no relationship between brain aneurysms and oral contraceptives. Perhaps you're thinking about blood clots, which — similar to brain aneurysms — can possibly lead to stroke. Oral contraceptives have been associated with an increased risk of blood clots, although for otherwise healthy prople assigned female at birth, this increased risk is still incredibly small. People with blood clots may experience swelling, pain, tenderness, redness of the skin, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, coughing up blood, very low blood pressure, or fainting. However, others may show or experience no signs or symptoms at all. Combined oral contraceptives, genetic clotting disorders, smoking, those 60 or older, prolonged inactivity, surgery, and cancer are risk factors of blood clots. Altogether, a closer look at the science behind aneurysms, as well as birth control and blood clots, may ease some of your distress.

To address your initial concern, most people with a brain aneurysm don't experience a ruptured brain aneurysm, and the use of hormonal birth control isn't associated with either a ruptured or unruptured brain aneurysm. A brain aneurysm is a bulge in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This stressed section of the artery can rupture, leading to bleeding in the brain — a potentially debilitating or life threatening condition. Symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm may include shaky walking, speech impairment, double vision, facial numbness, and drooping or enlargement of only one eye. Brain aneurysms are more common in adults than in children and more common in those assigned female at birth than those assigned male at birth. Certain risk factors develop over time, such as aging, cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, illicit drug use, and heavy alcohol use. Others are inherited, including:
•Inherited connective tissue disorders
•Polycystic kidney disease
•Abnormally narrow aorta (the largest artery in the body)
•Cerebral arteriovenous malformation
•Family history of brain aneurysm
List from Mayo Clinic.
While there hasn't been research to connect brain aneurysms and birth control, some research has connected an increased risk of blood clots with the use of combination hormonal contraception. Moving forward, it may help to keep in perspective the risk of blood clotting associated with birth control. Many birth control pills are considered combination hormonal contraception (CHC) methods — birth control methods that contain both estrogen and progestin. Other research indicates that both the patch and vaginal ring, which are also CHCs, have a higher risk of blood clots than most pills. One study found that those using the vaginal ring were 1.9 times more likely to have a blood clot and those using the patch were 2.3 times more likely to experience a blood clot than people taking combination birth control pills. Increasing estrogen levels in the body also increases risk of blood clots. In addition, some studies suggest that the progestin hormones drospirenone and desogestrel may have the same effect. Scientists are still learning about the risk of progestin. It's key to keep in mind that although blood clots are generally rare, they may occur in healthy people, even those not taking CHCs. Research estimates that between one and five of every 10,000 people assigned female at birth (who aren't pregnant and not using CHCs) will experience a blood clot in any given year.
The good news is that there are multiple contraception methods that don't contain estrogen and aren't associated with a higher risk of blood clots. These methods include the birth control implant and intrauterine devices (IUDs). The birth control shot, progestin-only pills, condoms, diaphragms, and emergency contraception don't contain estrogen. While this risk is relatively small, it's best for patients who are concerned about their risk of blood clots to see a health care provider and discuss their contraceptive options. Additionally, you can learn more about these contraceptive options in the Contraception section of the Go Ask Alice! Sexual & Reproductive Health archives.
Take care,

I took two birth control pills in a day — What now?

Dear Alice,
I took two birth control pills in one day 'cause I forgot that I had already taken one that day. Do I still take one tonight even though I'll be ahead one day?

Dear Reader,
Accidentally popping a second pill is a common slip and fortunately one that’s unlikely to have long-term consequences. The extra pill may cause you to feel nauseous that day, but the feeling usually passes. However, if it continues for a couple of days, it might be good to talk with your health care provider. The day after the extra dose, continue to take your pills on schedule; you just won’t be lined up with the day on the pill pack. For example, if you took Wednesday and Thursday’s pills on Wednesday, continue taking the next pill (in this case, Friday’s pill) on Thursday. You’ll continue this until the end of the pack, at which point you’ll continue with the next pack. To avoid this situation in the future, you might try some strategies to help you remember to take it or explore other contraceptive options that better suit your life. 
Even though you’ll be ahead one day, it’s key to continue taking the pill at the same time each day because some types of pills are only effective if taken every 24 hours. If you’re worried about pregnancy prevention, you might consider using a backup method of protection, such as a condom, for at least a week after the slip.

While birth control pills are a great form of contraceptive for some, others find it challenging to remember to take it consistently each day. Do you find that you’re regularly forgetting to take pills or taking an extra one? If so, how about pairing the pill with a daily activity? You could keep your pills next to the toothpaste and finish off your morning or nighttime routine with a dose. If you find that one activity isn't consistent enough to associate with taking the pills, then try switching to another activity.
If you find sticking to the rigid daily schedule of birth control pills difficult to maintain, you may consider other contraceptive options. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) or implants may be a good option because they don’t require you to take a daily dose or much in the way of regular maintenance for as long as they are effective (between three and ten years depending on the type). Additionally, the vaginal ring (changed monthly) or contraceptive patch (changed weekly) may also be options as they aren't replaced as frequently. Having a sense of your lifestyle and habits will help you make the contraceptive choice that’s right for you. Speaking with your health care provider about what options are best for you can help ensure that you're covered at all times!

Bracing up is hard to do: The truth about kissing with braces

Dear Reader,
Though the idea of being in this situation may seem mortifying, rest assured, the likelihood of it happening is minimal. If, however, you do find yourself in a bind, the best thing to do is relax and take a deep breath before slowly and carefully trying to unhook yourselves. To prevent this braces breakdown in the future, there are measures you can take to protect your braces from getting hooked and potentially broken.
Most braces today use newer technology that allows for smaller and smoother brackets, which means it’s unlikely that anything will get snagged in them. In any case, there are some steps you can take to ensure that doesn’t happen. When it comes to lip-smacking, it’s probably best to start slow so you and your partner become familiar with each other’s smooching habits. While you’re in the act, you might consider sticking with some closed-mouth canoodling and keep it light on the pressure. If these strategies don’t seem to work, it might be helpful to use some wax on the bumpy parts of your braces, which can help prevent any wires from getting caught.

If you do find yourself in a position where you and your partner are locking more than just lips, consider telling a funny joke or playing the staring game to ease tensions while trying to untangle and separate, slowly, gently, and carefully. If all else fails, a humble yell or phone call might be your best bet; though embarrassing, it's certainly a better option than the damage that a hefty tug could cause. If one of your brackets breaks in this process, it’s recommended that you make an appointment with your orthodontist to get it fixed sooner rather than later.
Here’s to bracing for smooth smooching sessions in the future,

Takin' a shot at Depo-Provera

Dear Needles,
Points to you for doing some research on a birth control method before trying it out! Depo-Provera (Depo) is the brand name for a prescription hormonal (progestin-only) method of birth control that many people choose because it’s both highly effective and low-maintenance. The original version, Depo-Provera IM, is a deep-muscle injection (shot) administered every three months. There is also a version that's a lower-dose, subcutaneous (administered just under the skin) injection called Depo SubQ Provera 104. A health care provider will administer the shot for most folks, but it may be possible to receive a supply to take home and self-administer on the same three month schedule. Everyone's experience with a given method will be different, and side effects for hormonal methods may be more common for some users than for others. And, if after learning more about this method you decide to give Depo a shot, there are recommendations on making the switch from birth control pills, but there's no evidence to suggest that there would be complications (though speaking with a medical professional first can provide individualized guidance).
For those who don't like having to manage birth control on a daily basis (i.e., take a pill every day), wish to decrease or not experience their menstrual periods, or are sensitive to estrogen (since this method doesn’t contain it), Depo can be an attractive way to avoid pregnancy. When all shots are given on time, Depo is more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. What’s more, if the shot is started within the first week (seven days) after the start of your menstrual period, you'll be protected from pregnancy immediately. While it's known that Depo can increase menstrual bleeding and "spotting," (bleeding between regular periods) for some users, bleeding often becomes lighter, less frequent, or stops altogether after a few weeks. With Depo, the bleeding-related side effects usually stop after three doses, or six to nine months. Relatedly, many side effects from hormonal methods of birth control tend to decrease or go away completely after the body becomes adjusted to the hormonal changes. The lower dose version of Depo may also reduce the likelihood of experiencing common side effects.

That being the case, there has been some concern over a particular side effect associated with this method. In 2004, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required the manufacturers to add a warning to the product label indicating that a loss in bone mineral density (BMD) may occur with use, may continue to decrease for the duration of use and may not be completely reversible after folks stop using Depo. This concern stems from the knowledge that low BMD may increase the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. The risk to adolescent users was particularly worrisome, as it was unclear what impact using Depo would have during a time of significant BMD development that typically occurs in that stage of life. The most up-to-date research suggests, however, that while BMD has been found to decrease while using the method, recovery of lost BMD is common once use stops. In clinical trials, former Depo users were found to have either mostly or completely reversed BMD loss after a period of two to five years of non-use. It was noted though that not all the bones were as quick to recover from the loss — with the hip and the femur taking longer to recover than the spine. It seems that the length of time it takes to recover from the loss and how complete the recovery is for a given user also depends on a number of factors, including how long they used Depo and at what part of the body the bone density is measured. For example, a study of adolescent users ages 12 to 18 found that complete recovery of lost BMD occurred in those who used Depo for less than two years. However, for adolescents in that study who used the method for longer than two years, complete recovery couldn't be confirmed. For a number of studies investigating BMD in former adult Depo users, it was found to be comparable to those who had never used the method. All this to say, if you’re concerned about your individual risk for bone density loss or osteoporosis, you may want to talk with your health care provider about it and about using this method.
Other side effects of Depo may include bloating, abdominal pain, dizziness, fatigue, weight gain, change in sex drive, headaches, and depression. If you have unexplained vaginal bleeding or are pregnant, use of this method isn’t recommended. It also may not be recommended for individuals who have liver disease, breast cancer, or those with a history of depression, heart attack, blood clots, or stroke. If you're planning on becoming pregnant in the future, it's been found to be the case that it can take the body anywhere from a few months to more than a year for you to return to fertility (i.e., have the ability to conceive) after you stop taking Depo. Beyond avoiding this method due to some pre-existing health concerns, it may interest you to know that for folks with endometriosis, Depo may be used as a treatment for pelvic pain associated with the condition. It may also reduce the risk of endometrial cancer and uterine fibroids.
With this knowledge, if you’re ready to make the switch from pills to the shot, starting Depo while you’re still taking the pill is advised. After the first shot, you’ll then be instructed to stop taking the pills about seven days later. Remember, if you and your health care provider decide that Depo is the right birth control method for you, you can still use an additional barrier method (such as a condom) to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Further, if you stop taking the pills first before starting Depo, using a back-up method of birth control for the first full week after the first shot is recommended. For more information about Depo and other forms of birth control, check out the Contraception category in the Go Ask Alice! archives and Planned Parenthood.
Hope you find the method that’s right for you!