There is an odd mystery about the clitoris for many people, even if they have one. It is not such a mystery, as it is widely known as a pea sized nub at the top of the labia. It has more nerve endings than any other area of the body. It’s only function in the body is pleasure, so it is an important part of sexual health and pleasure for anyone with a clitoris. So let’s get rid of some of that mystery.

What is the clit, exactly? Other than a bundle of nerves at the glans of the clit, these nerves wrap around the vagina in a kind of wishbone shape. The legs or crura of the clit extend about five inches along either side of the vagina. This means you can stimulate the clit from the inside as well. The nub or glans is covered by a hood to protect it from too much stimulation. It can vary in size from pea sized to the size of a small thumb. There are thousands of nerves in the clit, making it a center of pleasure. It becomes enlarged when aroused, and is made of spongy tissue that becomes engorged with blood on arousal. This blood flow creates much of the sexual pleasure from clitoral stimulation.

There is some confusion as to where the clit is located. It is above the vagina and urethra at the V formed by the inner labia. The top of the labia forms the clitoral hood. The entire labia is full of nerves, with the clitoris having the most. The folds of the inner vulva also hide the clitoral hood. Do not be afraid to feel around and find the clit in these folds. If you need to, ask your partner what touch feels best and where exactly to touch. If you have a clitoris, never be afraid to gently direct your partner as to how and where to touch you to make you feel good.

Clitoral stimulation is the most common way to orgasm. All those nerve endings make it the center of pleasure for those with a clitoris. It can also help with vaginal orgasm as the legs of the clit wrap around the sides of the vagina and can help with orgasm through penetration. Usually about ⅓ of the way in the vagina is the “sweet spot” for penetrative clitoral stimulation. This is not to be confused with the g-spot, which is another thing altogether.  Clitoral stimulation can be achieved through many methods including oral, digital, or with toys. Vibrating clitoral stimulation toys are very popular and come in a variety of types. Check out our selection on our Badd Kitty site.

The clitoris need not be a mystery. It should instead be the center of pleasure for its owner, and a friend to those wanting to please them. Experiment with different ways to pleasure the clit, both inside and out, and reap the sexual benefits. Both you and your partner will enjoy it.

Healthline

Planned Parenthood

Cleveland Clinic