How to achieve a clitoral orgasm: a comprehensive guide.

Clitoral orgasms are the way 2/3rds of us reach the big O and we can help you get there.

"Women who reported that clitoral stimulation was primarily responsible for their orgasm reported a higher desire to self-stimulate and demonstrated greater control over their self-reported sexual arousal" (Prause et al., 2016).

At Smile Makers, we believe in the power of understanding and exploring your body's needs. Don't be shy; get to know yourself and experiment with different ways to touch your clitoris.

Understanding the clitoris.

Anatomy of the clitoris.

The clitoris is often described as ‘a little button at the junction between the labia, above the vaginal entrance.’ However, the button, which can be more or less prominent from one vulva owner to the other, is only the visible part of the clitoris.

This is the highly sensitive clitoral glans with a similar structure and more nerve endings than the penis. It swells upon stimulation and has a protective fold of skin, too.

Yep, that’s right - the penis and clitoris have more in common than you think: the internal part of the clitoris is made of two roots and two bulbs with similar structures as the cavernous and spongious penile bodies.

Credit: Sexocorner

Role of the clitoris in sexual pleasure.

Those structures have erectile tissues meaning that they swell upon arousal. The external and internal parts become bigger or puffier when stimulated. This can increase the sensitivity of the genital areas, such as the labia and vaginal wall.

The more the clitoris gets aroused and swollen, the more it will be sensitive to the pressure of penetrative stimulation. Thus, all orgasms could be clitoral, even those that some of us feel as vaginal.

5 common misconceptions about the clitoris.

Let's set the record straight and celebrate the magic of the clit:

1. "It's just a little bump" Wrong-o! The clitoris is not only the most sensitive part of the vulva; three-quarters of its wishbone-shaped structure is internal too.

2. "It's always the same size and sensitivity" False. The clitoris changes in size and sensitivity as we grow, and hormonal changes or medication can impact it too.

3. "All clitorises are the same" Nope. Just like every vulva is different, every clitoris is unique. Size, color, and shape can vary widely, so never assume that a certain technique or touch will work for everyone.

4. "It's just a sensitive spot" Actually, the clitoris is a powerhouse! It contains over 10,000 nerve endings and interacts with 15,000 more throughout the pelvic area. It's not just a little spot, it's the epicenter of pleasure.

5. "It's not that big" Wrong again! The average size of the clitoris is 10 centimeters - that's about the length of a thumb. There's definitely more to the clitoris than meets the eye.

Preparation and exploration.

Like anything in life, the more we know about something, the easier it is to navigate. When we’re aware of the pleasure potential the clitoris has, the more fun we can have.

Creating a comfortable and relaxed environment.

To truly enjoy yourself,  relax. Pick a spot like your bed or shower where you don’t worry about being disturbed. Go under the covers, gather pillows to prop yourself up - whatever it is to optimize your comfort levels. We also highly recommend piquing your curiosity by looking at your vulva and clitoris with a handheld mirror.

Importance of communication and consent.

Consent is crucial when exploring clit orgasms with a partner, whether you stimulate their clitoris or they stimulate yours. Ask about their preferred touch and communicate your preferences. Both your pleasure matters.

Self-exploration techniques for understanding personal preferences.

Masturbation is the best way to really get to know your clitoris; it can guide you on sensitivity boundaries and preferred techniques.

Techniques for clitoral stimulation.

Just remember that clitoral stimulation is not exclusive to external action on the vulva, and the path to clitoral orgasm can feel different to each of us as every clit is unique.

Clit stim with our hands.

Clit rubbing is a very effective form of clitoral stimulation, and there are many ways to touch yourself with your hands and fingers.

Circular motions.

With the tips of one or two fingers, try orbiting round and round or tracing a figure-8 over the clitoral hood and glans. 

Tapping and flicking.

Instead of continuous touch, try tapping with two fingers repeatedly. Explore different angles to vary the areas you touch, not just the top.

Pressure variations.

You can play with pressure by using different parts of your fingers or even the palm of your hand with alternating wrist movements.

Clit stim with sex toys.

Getting hands-on is great, but clit toys can up the playfulness. It can also save your wrist from getting achy during long or frequent masturbation sessions. Thank us later.

Clit vibrators offer diverse sensations compared to hands. They are designed for external stimulation of the clitoral glans and provide an opportunity to play with speeds or pulsations impossible to reach with fingers.

To simulate oral sex.

To try solo cunnilingus, use a tongue vibrator with ample lubrication. It provides a soft, firm, and flexible pressure akin to tentative clit caressing.

A clit-oral (get it) technique that doesn’t technically touch the glans directly is clit sucking. Instead of creating friction, this motion pulsates air on and around.

For very sensitive clits.

For those with sensitive clitorises, suction is a popular technique. Toys like clit suckers provide gentle and indirect stimulation as their mouths surround the glans rather than being placed on top.

Sensitivity can vary during arousal and even during multiple orgasms. Layering, a masturbation technique, can help sustain pleasure by reducing intensity. Use a vibrator over underwear or a bedsheet to create a clitoris cushion.

For not-so-sensitive clits.

Some of us may not feel oversensitive at all – and might require more vigorous or direct stimulation. Very small but repetitive motions can build pleasurable sensitivity, as well as cycling through speed modes whilst holding a vibrator in one place on top of the clit.

Remember, lubricant helps with sensation as much as it does friction. If you find clit sensitivity dull, try adding lashings of water-based lube.

Clit and vulval stimulation.

As the clitoris becomes aroused, the internal part erects, causing the labia to become more sensitive. Try an all-encompassing stimulation of the clitoris, with a wider surface area like the palm of the hand or a vulva-shaped vibrator. It's akin to cupping the labia.

Clit and penetrative stimulation.

More of a fan of penetration? Remember that the clitoris can be stimulated via the vaginal walls, aim for the G-spot for optimum feels. Internal clit stimulation is all about pressure instead of friction - think sustained penetration over fast thrusting.

Double-up masturbation techniques with a penetrative vibe and your hand or clit vibe. Masturbating like this can help you discover blended orgasms or how to reach orgasm with a penetrative partner. Or, give a rabbit vibrator a go!

Incorporating clitoral stimulation during partnered sex.

If you haven’t already, communicate with your partner the type of clitoral touch you enjoy – and, if your partner has a penis, remind them that your pleasure (and theirs!) goes waaaaay beyond penetration.

Positions that enhance clitoral pleasure.

Some positions make it easier to get a helping hand: military, spoon, or doggy. It’s all about creating space to give access to the clitoris.

Techniques for partner involvement.

Many masturbation techniques can also be applied with a partner, either by you or by them. Don't hesitate to give yourself a helping hand. Rubbing your clitoris during penetration can be the key to achieving orgasm.

Enhancing clitoral orgasms.

Exploring different erogenous zones simultaneously.

The clitoris may be the star of the show, but other exploration isn’t off-limits. At the same time as stimulating your clit, let your hands stray to your thighs, chest, neck… you get the gist.

The role of relaxation and mindfulness.

Orgasms often rely on calming the mind. Yep, we must prepare our mind for pleasure, too; eliminate distracting thoughts and ease into your sexy mind to truly let go.

Overcoming challenges.

Letting go isn’t always as easy, and many of us experience difficulty reaching orgasm.

Addressing common obstacles.

Clit stimulation may cause friction. As we get aroused, natural lubrication often occurs. If not, don’t worry; it’s completely normal and doesn’t mean your clit stim isn’t working. There are many reasons why we might need extra wetness, and in our humble opinion, there’s no such thing as too much water-based lube.

Dealing with performance anxiety or self-consciousness.

Avoid pressuring yourself to reach orgasm, as excessive focus on it can hinder your chances. Instead, stay present and focus on the touch while remembering to breathe. The engorgement of the clitoris requires ample oxygen to sustain pleasurable sensations.

Seeking professional advice when necessary.

Orgasms are not the be-all and end-all of sexual pleasure, but if you find yourself persistently not orgasming when you want to, after sufficient stimulation, it can be frustrating. You deserve pleasure, so reach out to a sex therapist or health expert to talk about it.

Safety and hygiene.

Proper hygiene practices.

Clean hands are always a good idea, especially when touching our vulva and not wanting to mess with its pH balance. All you need for both is water and a gentle soap.

Safe usage of sex toys and vibrators.

Always use body-safe toys for clit stimulation; our favorites are silicone based. And, in your post-orgasm haze, remember to clean them - future you will appreciate it.

Importance of regular health check-ups.

Clit masturbation helps us understand our 'normal'. If you notice any changes like lumps or bumps on the vulva, seek a check-up as a preventive measure.

Conclusion.

So much big clit energy! The most important thing to remember is that this powerful sex organ is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and what feels good differs from day-to-day, let alone from person-to-person. So, go forth, touch your clit, and embrace the wonder of clitoral orgasms.