Assessing the sensitivity of your clitoris

The clitoris is a unique organ in the female anatomy. Comparable to the penis in men in terms of structure and function, it plays a crucial role in women's sexual response and satisfaction. Unlike other parts of the body, its sole function is to provide pleasure, making it a key element in the exploration of our sexuality. However, the sensitivity of the clitoris can vary from one woman to another, influencing our sexual experiences. Understanding this sensitivity and adapting stimulation techniques accordingly is essential to maximise pleasure and avoid discomfort.

A reminder of the anatomy of the clitoris

The clitoris is a female genital organ whose primary function is to provide pleasure when stimulated. It's enough to make you dream, isn't it?

Contrary to popular belief, this organ extends far beyond the part visible under its bonnet. Spoiler alert: most of its body is invisible. ✨

• The glans of the clitoris
  This is the visible part, located at the junction of the labia minora, above the urethral orifice. It is extremely sensitive due to its high concentration of nerve endings (over 10,000 nerve fibres!).

• The vestibular bulbs
  Located on either side of the vaginal opening, they are part of the clitoral structure. Like the clitoral body, the bulbs fill with blood during sexual arousal.

The clitoris thus consists of a visible external part and an internal part, comprising roots around 10 centimetres long that surround the urethra and vagina. 🔍

How does the clitoris work?

During sexual arousal, blood flow to the clitoris increases, causing the erectile tissues of the glans, shaft and vestibular bulbs to swell.

This 'clitoral erection' increases receptivity to pleasure. It's for this reason, in fact, that we recommend you take the time to build up desire before going any further in the act. ⌛

Although the clitoris does not produce lubrication directly, its stimulation plays an essential role in arousal. It's a bit like an exchange of coded messages that gradually lead to vaginal lubrication.

Finally, clitoral stimulation is often crucial to achieving orgasm in a majority of women. 🔥

Although this is an abuse of language, it is then referred to as clitoral orgasm. In reality, the difference between clitoral and vaginal orgasm doesn't really exist, as both stem from clitoral stimulation. In this article, we give you some tips on how to achieve orgasm through clitoral stimulation.

Why question the sensitivity of your clitoris?

We can't tell you enough: getting to know yourself better is a strength and a wonderful way to regain power. 🤩

Identifying the sensitivity of your clitoris and your stimulation preferences can increase your sexual satisfaction. You can then choose the right vibrator, the right vibration mode and guide your partner according to what pleases you.

A better understanding of your body and your sexual reactions can also boost your self-confidence. Knowing what pleases you and how to reach orgasm allows you to take control of your sexuality. 🙌

All this leads to a fulfilled sexuality,far from injunctions and taboos. Knowing the path to orgasm is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. That's right, orgasms release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that improve mood and promote relaxation.

Knowing the ideal conditions for achieving orgasm can therefore have a positive impact on mental and emotional health. ❤️

How do you measure clitoral sensitivity?

Rely on your preferences

Observe what makes you tingle with pleasure during your solo sessions or during intercourse.

Are you more of an aficionado of gentle caresses or firmer pressure? Make a mental note of the types of touch, the specific areas of the clitoris and the intensity that give you the most pleasure.

You can add them to your sexual menu to help you remember them. 📋

Explore using vibrators

Another effective way to assess sensitivity is to use vibrators. Try out different models with varying intensities and stimulation modes to see what works best for you.

At Puissante, we have the Toupie for exploring pleasure using more traditional vibrations, and the Mini Coco for discovering suction, non-contact stimulation using a membrane that vibrates and pulses air.

Want to explore both types of sensation? Good news: our best-seller Coco combines suction and vibration! All our vibrators offer 10 vibration modes so you can find the one that suits your level of sensitivity. 🌡️

Contrary to popular belief, there are no studies to prove that frequent use of vibrators desensitises the clitoris. Sex toys offer rhythmic and uniform sensations, allowing the clitoris to adapt to this type of stimulation.

Sometimes the nerve endings are a little numb after stimulation that is too long or too intense, but just stop for a few minutes and all the sensations return. 🍃

How do we adapt according to the sensitivity of our clitoris?

My clitoris is sensitive

If your clitoris is very sensitive, it's important to favour gentle, gradual stimulation techniques to avoid discomfort or pain.

• Light caresses
  Use gentle movements with your fingertips or lips. Gently stroke the clitoris and the areas around the vulva.

• Low-intensity vibrators
  If you use sex toys, choose an adjustable model with low-intensity options. Start with the lowest settings and gradually increase.

• Temperature play
  Alternate between warm and cool sensations to gently stimulate the nerves. You can use warm compresses, cool water, or tempered metal objects to gently stroke the area. This can help to diversify sensations without excessive intensity.

My clitoris is less sensitive

Conversely, if you need more intensity to feel pleasure, you can try different approaches. Note that sometimes a lack of sensitivity can be linked to the need to be more anchored in the present moment and in your body. Why not explore slow sex to intensify the sensations?

• Increase the pressure
  Apply firmer pressure with your fingers or use massage movements to stimulate the clitoris and the areas around the vulva.

• Choosing the right vibrator
  Use sex toys with high-intensity settings or stronger pulses. Toys designed for deep stimulation can be particularly effective.

• Vary your positions
  Try out different sexual positions to find those that offer more direct clitoral stimulation, such as the andromache.

• Lifting the bonnet of the clitoris
  By lifting the 'bonnet' of the clitoris, you'll be able to feel the sensations more intensely, so you can reach new heights of pleasure quickly.

What should I do if my clitoris hurts?

Some women may suffer from clitoral pain, described as dull, persistent or pulsating, and known as 'clitordynia'.

According to the International Society for Sexual Medicine, this pain can be associated with conditions such as vestibulodynia, lichen sclerosus or multiple sclerosis.

In the event of clitoral pain, consider consulting a health professional such as a gynaecologist for guidance.

You now know how to adapt your stimulation to the sensitivity of your clitoris. Take the time to listen to yourself and experience all the sensations. To find out more about the art of clitoral stimulation, click here. 😍