Schedule an Appointment
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.
What’s the average increase in size?
When erect, the part of the clit you can see (the glans) “will peak out of the clitoral hood and grow in size 50 to 300 percent,” according to Heather Jeffcoat, a doctor of physical therapy who specializes in sexual functioning.
And the vaginal lips will swell during arousal so that they are two to three times bigger than usual,”
she said.
And remember, even the parts of the clitoral structure you can’t see swell and engorge as a result of the increased blood flow.
