Clitoral, vaginal, or both? The truth about female orgasm types

The myths we’ve been told about female orgasms

For decades, women have been told there are two kinds of orgasms — clitoral and vaginal — and that one is somehow more mature or “real” than the other.

This idea didn’t come from science. It came from outdated beliefs about sex that centered on male pleasure and minimized female anatomy. In reality, there’s only one type of orgasm — it just happens through different kinds of stimulation.

The body is a connected network of nerves and tissues, and the clitoris is at the center of that network. It’s not just a small external nub; it extends internally, branching around the vaginal canal like a wishbone. That’s why some women feel pleasure from internal stimulation while others don’t — both experiences are valid, both are clitoral.

According to Anatomy of the Clitoris, the clitoris contains over 8,000 sensory nerve endings, and its internal structure spreads across a broad region that overlaps with other pelvic tissues.

The truth: it’s all connected

Every orgasm you experience — whether from direct clitoral touch, penetration, nipple stimulation, or even mental arousal — involves the same physiological pathway. The body releases oxytocin, heart rate increases, and rhythmic contractions pulse through the pelvic muscles.

The difference isn’t where the orgasm happens but how it’s stimulated. For some, clitoral touch is key. For others, internal or blended stimulation — where both external and internal nerves are engaged — feels most satisfying. There’s no hierarchy, no right or wrong way to feel pleasure.

Why the myth persists

Historically, early sex researchers like Sigmund Freud claimed vaginal orgasms were signs of emotional maturity, while clitoral ones were childish. This idea rooted shame into women’s sexual self-perception, suggesting pleasure should happen a certain way.

And research in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy shows that approximately 36.6% of women report clitoral stimulation as necessary for orgasm during intercourse, while another 36% say their orgasms feel stronger when clitoral stimulation is included.

When we internalize shame around what’s natural, pleasure becomes harder to access. Understanding your anatomy is the first step to reclaiming confidence and connection.

How to explore your pleasure (solo or with a partner)

Pleasure isn’t about chasing an outcome — it’s about learning what your body responds to, with curiosity and kindness. Here are a few ways to start exploring:

1. Map your sensations Take time to explore your body without a goal. Use your fingers, breath, or a soft touch to notice what feels good externally and internally. The goal isn’t orgasm — it’s awareness.

   
   

2. Experiment with rhythm and pressure The clitoris responds differently for everyone. Try light circular motion, steady pressure, or tapping. Notice which touch feels stimulating versus overwhelming.
   

3. Breathe into the feeling Deep breathing increases blood flow and helps your body stay relaxed. Try inhaling for four counts and exhaling for six while touching yourself or being touched.
   

4. Include your mind The brain is your largest erogenous zone. Fantasies, visualizations, or even focusing on how your body feels can heighten pleasure and deepen connection.
   

5. Communicate during partnered sex Replace performance pressure with shared curiosity. Guide your partner — with words or touch — toward what feels good. Remember, most people can’t read minds, but they can listen beautifully.

   
   

How to integrate this understanding into your sex life

Knowledge is empowerment, but it becomes transformation when you act on it. Here’s how to integrate what you’ve learned into everyday intimacy:

• Let go of comparison. Your pleasure doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Everybody is unique, every orgasm personal.

• Redefine “sex.” Center your experiences around pleasure, not penetration. Foreplay isn’t a prelude; it’s part of the symphony.

• Create rituals of connection. Take time to connect through touch, breath, and conversation. Slowing down helps your body tune in and respond more deeply.

• Ditch the goal. Focus on sensation, not climax. The less pressure you put on yourself, the more naturally pleasure flows.

The takeaway on female orgasm types

Clitoral. Vaginal. Blended. There’s no competition, no ranking, no right way to orgasm. There’s only your body’s truth — and the permission you give yourself to follow it.

Pleasure isn’t about performance, it’s about presence. When you approach your body with curiosity instead of judgment, you transform every touch into connection.