Q: Can the size of your clitoris affect your ability to orgasm? I have a larger clit, and I’ve always wondered if that’s why I have difficulty reaching orgasm during vaginal intercourse. I can usually orgasm when using a toy, so I’m not sure why I can’t do the same during partner sex. Is there anything I can do to make orgasm more likely during partner sex?
The size of your clitoris won’t affect your ability to orgasm, but the size of your clitoral hood might.
If your clitoris is covered by a thicker hood, you may have to apply more direct pressure in order to reach orgasm. You may also be able to gently draw back your clitoral hood so that you can more directly stimulate your clitoris.
I find that using a high-speed vibrator, such as a Hitachi wand, works best.
If you only use a vibrator or other sex toy during masturbation, this could explain why you’re able to reach orgasm on your own but not with your partner.
This doesn’t mean that reaching orgasm during partner sex isn’t possible — just that a different approach may be needed to achieve one.
Internal vs. external clitoral stimulation
The clitoris is more than just the pea-sized nub that sits at the top of your labia. That’s just the external part, which is known as the glans.
The clitoris actually extends back into the body and around the vaginal canal. These “legs,” or crura, are made up of erectile tissue and form a V-shape inside the body.
Depending on your anatomy, you may experience a vaginal orgasm if the internal part of your clitoris is stimulated during vaginal penetration.
But generally speaking, solo or partner sex that doesn’t involve some form of direct or indirect clitoral stimulation won’t result in orgasm.
If your clitoral hood is thicker, your best bet is to incorporate more direct clitoral stimulation — either by using a high-pressure external vibrator on the area or by pulling back the hood.
Talk to your partner
It’s important to be open with your partner about what types of touch and pressure work best for you.
Talk to your partner about your desire to orgasm during partner sex, and share the techniques you typically use during masturbation to reach climax.
Be clear about your willingness to sex-periment together to discover which partnered positions and techniques are most likely to be pleasurable for you both.
Being open, relaxed, and confident in your needs and desires is the best way to bring about orgasm and other sexual pleasure.
Dr. Janet Brito is a nationally certified Latinx sex therapist, supervisor, speaker, trainer, and author. Dr. Brito is the founder and owner of the Hawaii Center for Sexual and Relationship Health, a group practice that specializes in relationship and sex therapy, out of control sexual behavior, and gender and sexually diverse populations, and The Sexual Health School, an online training program for healthcare professionals seeking human sexuality training.
Education
- Loyola University Chicago, BS
- Columbia University in the City of New York, MS
- Pacifica Graduate Institute, PhD
Certifications
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- AASECT Certified Sex Supervisor
- AASECT Certified Sex Therapist
Professional Accomplishments
- Brito, J. (2018). A Phenomenological Analysis on Infertility in Mexican Women Living in the U.S. Interamerican Journal of Psychology.
Affiliations
