Squirting, also sometimes called female ejaculation, refers to the expulsion of fluid during clitoral or vaginal stimulation.
The fluid — not pure pee but a combination of urea, uric acid, and creatinine — is released by the Skene’s glands, which sit at the lower end of the urethra.
When someone squirts, “it’s usually from G-spot stimulation, or clitoral and G-spot dual stimulation,” said certified sex coach Gigi Engle, author of “All The F*cking Mistakes: A Guide to Sex, Love, and Life.”
The Skene’s glands, G-spot, and urethral sponge are all located in the same area. “Typically, if you stimulate one thing, you likely stimulate them all,” she explained.
Although the terms “female ejaculate” and “squirting” are sometimes used interchangeably, Dr. Jill McDevitt, PhD, CalExotics’ resident sexologist, said some people argue that ejaculating and squirting are two different things.
According to Engle, “Some people say it feels nothing like an orgasm. While others note that it feels [similar], but slightly different from, an orgasm.”
“It’s intense. Like an extreme release. For me, I orgasm, and then if my husband keeps touching my G-spot, then I squirt. It’s not really a similar sensation for me,” said Abby K., 42.
“Due to the pressure on the urethra, some people report feeling like they need to pee right before they squirt,” explained Engle.
That’s the case for Joannie N., 29. “Right before it happens, I literally feel like I’m going to wet the bed. While it’s happening, it feels like a really wet orgasm,” she said.
For some trans and nonbinary folks, squirting can be really gender affirming. It is for Hunter C., 23, a transgender man who said, “Squirting feels to me what I imagine jizzing would feel like if I had a penis.”
There are several common myths and misconceptions about squirting, including the belief that squirting isn’t real.
Although more research is needed to understand exactly how and why squirting occurs, there’s plenty of
Another common myth is that anyone with a vulva can squirt. While there are several methods and sexual positions that may be beneficial, some data suggests that 40% of U.S. adult women have experienced it.
Some people also believe that the fluid expelled while squirting is nothing more than pee.
Interestingly, one
Start by prepping your surroundings. To make cleanup easy, lay down a few towels or a waterproof throw.
“When I masturbate and plan to stimulate my G-spot, I get in the tub so I don’t have to worry about getting everything wet,” said Christine B., 31.
Then, do what you must to switch off your work or family brain.
“If you’re not relaxed, holding yourself back, not in the right mindset, or not giving yourself over to the full sensation, it’s unlikely you’ll be relaxed enough to squirt,” explained Engle.
“Use whatever stimulation you usually use to get revved up, then touch your clit,” said Engle. “While touching your clitoris, use a wand or your fingers to locate your G-spot and massage it.”
Some folks will feel like they need to pee before they squirt. If you feel that way, it’s a sign squirting may be on your horizon. Keep going! Stop when you’re done, not because you think you have to pee.
Above all else, don’t pressure your partner to squirt or make them feel “less than” if they can’t or don’t. And don’t assume penetrative sex is the best way to make it happen! It’s not, according to Engle.
“Manual stimulation is more likely to make someone squirt than penis-in-vagina or dildo-in-vagina intercourse,” said Engle.
Her recommendation: Have the receiving partner touch their own clit. Or, have the giving partner perform cunnilingus as they finger you.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can spread through the bodily fluid released while squirting. Barrier methods can help reduce your risk of infection. You might consider using:
- a glove or finger condom during manual-genital stimulation
- a dental dam during oral stimulation
- an internal or external condom during vaginal or anal penetration
Sometimes squirting happens, sometimes it doesn’t, and sometimes you try forever and experience it for the first time in your 60s.
“There is nothing wrong with not being able to squirt,” said Engle. “Whether you squirt or not, however you experience pleasure is perfectly valid and should be celebrated.”
Gabrielle Kassel is a New York-based sex and wellness writer and CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. She has become a morning person, tested over 200 vibrators, and eaten, drunk, and brushed with charcoal — all in the name of journalism. In her free time, she can be found reading self-help books and romance novels, bench-pressing, or pole dancing. Follow her on Instagram.