Beginners Guide: The Clitoris


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Sex Ed 102 Beginners Guide: The Clitoris

Despite its importance, the clitoris has long been misunderstood or ignored in sexual education. In recent years, however, there has been a growing movement to raise awareness about its structure and function, emphasizing the importance of clitoral stimulation in sexual pleasure. Knowing how to properly stimulate the clitoris – whether through gentle touch, oral sex, or the use of sex toys – can empower individuals to take control of their sexual health and enjoy more fulfilling intimate experiences.

Ultimately, education about the clitoris is vital for dismantling the myths and misinformation that have historically shrouded cis female sexuality. As awareness continues to grow, the clitoris is becoming rightfully recognized as an essential part of anatomy that deserves attention, respect, and care in the pursuit of a satisfying sex life.

Anatomy of the Clitoris

The clitoris is a complex and highly sensitive organ, often misunderstood or underrepresented in discussions about cis female anatomy. To get a better idea of the structure of the vulva and complete clitoral network, please refer to the Healthline image below.

The Clitoral Hood

The clitoral hood is a fold of skin that covers and protects the sensitive glans of the clitoris, much like the foreskin on a penis. It acts as a protective layer, shielding the clitoris from constant friction or irritation, while still allowing for pleasurable stimulation during sexual arousal. The clitoral hood can vary greatly in size and shape from person to person, and during arousal, it often retracts slightly, exposing more of the clitoral glans for direct stimulation. This natural covering plays an important role in regulating sensitivity, as some individuals prefer indirect stimulation of the clitoris by massaging the hood, while others enjoy more direct contact.

The Glans/Clitoris

The clitoral glans is the small, external part of the clitoris that is visible at the top of the vulva, where the inner labia meet. Despite its small size, the glans has an astonishing concentration of nerve endings – around 8,000 – making it the most sensitive erogenous zone in the human body and a central focus of sexual pleasure. During arousal, the glans becomes engorged with blood, increasing its size and responsiveness to touch.

Although it is the only part of the clitoris visible externally, the glans is connected to a much larger internal structure that contributes to sexual sensation. Its primary function is to provide pleasure, and different individuals may prefer various types of stimulation to this sensitive area, whether through gentle touch, vibration, or pressure. However, this is only a small fraction of the clitoris.

Illustration by Cristie Wilson

The Crura/Corpus Cavernosum

The crura are the two internal, elongated branches of the clitoris that extend downwards from the clitoral glans, running along the sides of the vaginal canal. Made of erectile tissue, the crura become engorged with blood during sexual arousal, much like the glans, contributing to the swelling and increased sensitivity of the clitoral structure.

Though not visible externally, the crura play a significant role in sexual pleasure, providing a deeper sense of fullness and pressure when stimulated. They are part of the larger clitoral network, which works in unison to enhance arousal, making the crura an essential, though often overlooked, component of the female sexual anatomy.

Vestibular Bulbs

While not as widely recognized as the external clitoral glans, the vestibular bulbs are essential components of the clitoral anatomy. These bulbous masses of erectile tissue sit on either side of the vaginal opening, beneath the skin, and swell with blood during sexual arousal. Although not directly attached to the visible glans of the clitoris, they work in tandem with the internal crura and other parts of the clitoris to enhance sexual pleasure. The swelling of the vestibular bulbs can create a feeling of fullness and heighten sensitivity in the surrounding area, contributing to the overall sensation of arousal and pleasure.

Final Thoughts

Although there is no direct role in reproduction, the clitoris allows for a variety of pleasurable experiences.

Essentially, the clitoris is the focal point of sexual enjoyment for many, enabling us to explore and experience deep levels of pleasure and satisfaction.

By recognizing the importance of the clitoris in sexual pleasure and making space for conversations about it, we can develop a deeper understanding of our own bodies, or that of our partner(s), and enhance their sexual well-being.

And as conversations around sexual health continue to evolve, it’s essential to prioritize accurate and inclusive education about the clitoris. Shedding light on its purpose and importance helps to dismantle outdated myths, ensuring that more of us are equipped with the knowledge to embrace our own pleasure and advocate for it in our relationships.

Whether through solo exploration or shared intimacy, understanding the clitoris is key to unlocking deeper sexual fulfillment and fostering a positive, informed approach to sexuality.

For those looking for more information on ways of exploring what feels good and what doesn’t, whether with a partner or solo, my clitoral stimulation guide for beginners might be a helpful place to start.

If you’d like to purchase products designed specifically for clitoral stimulation be sure to check out any of my favourite online sex toy stores be it Pinkcherry, SheVibe, or Babeland. Don’t forget to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best prices available.

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