There are arguably many phenomena in sexual health, as intimacy can often uncover unexpected things in both men and women.
There are arguably many phenomena in sexual health, as intimacy can often uncover unexpected things in both men and women.
One such female sexual marvel has been dubbed “squirting.” This is the release of fluid from the urethra during sexual arousal or stimulation. It can happen alongside or instead of orgasm for some women.
Though commonly associated with female sexuality, it’s vital to understand that not all women squirt during sex — and squirting doesn’t necessarily indicate sexual satisfaction or orgasm.
In other words, don’t use the presence or absence of squirting as any measure of a woman’s health or sexual pleasure. Also, keep in mind that every person with a vagina can squirt - and that includes trans men who haven’t undergone gender affirming surgery.
What is squirting, exactly, why does it happen, and how common is it? Keep reading for answers to these questions and everything you need to know about squirting.
Squirting is the release of a specific type of fluid from the urethra — the tube that allows urine (and, in men, semen) to leave the bladder and body. It happens with sexual stimulation or arousal, when pelvic floor muscles contract.
The occurrence of squirting is associated with intense pleasure or female orgasm, but they don’t always go hand in hand.
Despite common misconceptions, squirting isn’t female ejaculation — although they’re related, and these terms are often used interchangeably.
Female ejaculation is the release of a smaller amount of fluid from the Skene’s glands. This fluid is typically thicker, milky in appearance, and secreted from the vaginal walls.
The fluid associated with female ejaculation is believed to contain substances similar to semen, including high levels of glucose (blood sugar) and a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
On the other hand, squirting involves a larger volume of fluid that’s more watery. And squirting fluid is released from the urethra, though it may come from the Skene’s glands.
While squirting and female ejaculation both involve fluid release during arousal, the distinction lies in the fluid’s composition and how much of it is produced.
The exact connection between squirting and female ejaculation remains debated, with some experts suggesting that squirting may simply be a more intense form of female ejaculation, while others argue they are entirely separate processes.
The fluid expelled with squirting is typically clear and odorless. Made up of mostly diluted urine, it has some of the same chemicals as pee (urea, creatinine, etc.) but isn’t exactly the same as pee. So, no, squirting isn’t peeing.
Coital incontinence (involuntarily leaking pee during sex) can happen to some women, but this is different from squirting.
While the exact composition of the fluid is still debated, it’s thought to come from the Skene’s glands. Sometimes referred to as “the female prostate,” the Skene’s glands are small ducts on either side of the urethra.
Squirting can happen during G-spot stimulation or deep penetration. But not all women experience it — and the ones who do don’t necessarily experience it from the same stimuli.
It’s hard to say how common female squirting is, because most studies use different terminology (squirting vs. female ejaculation). It’s estimated that around 54 percent of women experience some kind of ejaculation of fluid during sex. But again, these are approximations, and more research is needed.
The prevalence and degree to which women may experience squirting during sex seem to vary significantly. Having said that, it’s a normal physiological response for those who experience it, and it doesn’t point to any underlying health issues.
The best way to know what a squirting orgasm feels like is to ask the woman you’re with. But here’s what we know from anecdotal reports.
In one 2021 study, researchers asked 28 females to describe squirting. They said, “Descriptions range from considering it amazing, a superpower and feminist statement to an unpleasant and/or shameful event.”
The sensations associated with squirting also vary. Some women report more intense orgasms or a feeling that’s different from a clitoral orgasm, and others report indifference.
Some women say they experience a substantial amount of fluid expelled, like a feeling of gushing, while others do not.
Before squirting happens, some women say it feels like they need to pee.
Squirting is most likely caused by a combination of physiological factors. These factors are primarily linked to sexual arousal and stimulation.
One theory is that stimulation of the vaginal wall, along with the activation of the Skene’s glands near the urethra, may result in the release of fluid during sexual activity.
Deep penetration or certain sex positions that apply pressure to the G-spot are often said to increase the likelihood of squirting. Overall, factors like how relaxed a woman is, her level of arousal, and even her personal anatomy can play a role in whether squirting occurs.
While some women may find it more likely to happen, not all will experience squirting.
If you and your partner are interested in trying new approaches to promote the likelihood of squirting, we’ve rounded up some tips for how to make a woman squirt.
Just keep in mind that these aren’t a sure thing, and everyone is different. So what’s most important is having open communication about your sex life and engaging in safe sex practices.
Here’s what you can try:
Squirting with a partner. When not using toys, you could try stimulating the G-spot with your fingers or getting into a sex position that reaches it.
Squirting with sex toys. Consider dual clitoral and G-spot stimulation with appropriate vaginal lubrication. Our water-based lube is a winner for many couples.
Masturbation. Your partner may find it easier to experience squirting when masturbating rather than during sex with a partner. After all, she knows her body best.
Vibrator. Using a vibrator on the clitoris (top center of the vulva) or G-spot may be just the right stimulation to promote squirting for some women. Our bullet vibrator is an excellent starter option.
What is squirting? Squirting is fluid secretion released from the urethra (the tube where pee comes out) when a woman is sexually aroused, about to orgasm, or orgasming.
If you’re curious about exploring female ejaculation and squirting more, the best thing to do is to speak with your partner about it.
For more sexual health advice for men and women, check out our online resources, or consult a licensed healthcare provider specializing in sexual medicine for personalized guidance.
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