You might be curious about squirting, especially since there are many myths surrounding it. So, what is it? Can you learn to do it? Is it common? To help answer these questions, let’s take a deep dive into squirting with insights from sex educators.
Squirting is when a clear fluid is released from the urethra during high levels of arousal. According to Debra Laino, a sexologist, this phenomenon can happen whether or not a person reaches climax. Although it’s often shown as a dramatic gushing in media, squirting can also be a gentle trickle or light stream. The amount varies significantly too, with some women releasing anywhere from 10 to over 100 milliliters of fluid. Just to give you a sense of scale, a typical medicine dose cup holds about 10 milliliters, while 100 milliliters is roughly equivalent to a generous pour of wine.
It’s essential to clarify, though, that squirting is not the same as an orgasm or female ejaculation. While both involve fluid release, they come from different sources in the body. Female ejaculation releases a milkier fluid in smaller amounts from the paraurethral glands, while squirting fluid comes from the bladder.
You might wonder, is squirting the same as urinating? Not exactly. The fluid released during squirting contains some elements found in urine, but it’s largely different. Squirting fluid is typically clear, doesn’t smell like pee, and is a natural part of sexual pleasure. Many sex experts emphasize that all fluids released during sexual activity are normal and part of the experience.
Can everyone squirt? It’s unlikely that everyone can, and that’s perfectly okay. Our bodies are unique, and people respond differently to physical stimulation. Research estimates that between 10% to 54% of women may experience squirting. If you’re among those who can’t, know that you’re normal!
So, what does squirting feel like? The sensation can vary widely among individuals and their experiences. For some, the first squirting event might come with confusion or anxiety, as the feeling can resemble needing to urinate. However, with enough practice and a supportive environment, many find the sensation quite pleasurable. Some women report that it feels like an intense release, almost like an extension of an orgasm. Others might find it less intense if it happens outside of an orgasmic experience.
If you’re interested in exploring squirting, whether alone or with a partner, here are some tips to get started:
- Relax: Begin in a calm state. Stress and anxiety can hinder enjoyment and release.
- Masturbate: Understanding your body through self-exploration can help you identify what feels good. Focus on stimulating the G-spot, which is about two inches inside the vagina, and feels different from the vaginal walls.
- Set the mood: Create a comfortable environment with soft lighting and soothing sounds. This can help you relax and focus on pleasure.
- Combine stimulation: For many, combining G-spot and clitoral stimulation increases pleasure. You can use your hands, sex toys, or involve a partner to help achieve this.
- Stay calm: It’s easy to put pressure on yourself to squirt, but that can backfire. Embrace the experience and let it happen naturally.
Remember, squirting is just one way to experience pleasure. Whether you do or do not, what matters is finding joy in your sexual journey.