When It Comes to Orgasms, Size Does Matter--Cliterally

Amidst the lack of knowledge regarding female sexual dysfunction and the constant hullabaloo regarding a “female Viagra,” we actually may be one step closer to cracking (or stroking) the enigma that is the female orgasm.

Researchers have found that in women who have orgasm issues, the direct distance between the clitoris and the vagina was 5-6 millimeters longer than average. Also, their clitorises (clitori? clitorati?) were smaller in size. But scientists aren’t quite sure if orgasm affects anatomy or the other way around. As Yahoo reports:

It is difficult to know whether it is the anatomy of the clitoris that influences orgasm, or having more orgasms changes the anatomy, Oakley said.

“We still can’t tell whether this is the chicken or the egg,” Oakley said. “Do these women have a bigger clitoris because they have more orgasms? Or are they born with a bigger clitoris that allows them to have better function?”

The study also highlighted just how much sexual positions also played a role in pleasure and orgasm likelihood:

Women with orgasm problems tended to prefer the missionary position, whereas women with normal orgasm patterns favored being on top of their partner, in a position that provides more contact with the clitoris during the intercourse.

“These women, not only they have that closer distance between the clitoris and the vagina, but [also] they are using it to their advantage by taking the female dominant position,” Oakley said.

While female sexual dysfunction is a frustrating condition, one that doesn’t have a clear anatomical or psychological root, and varies on a case by case difference, understanding the importance of the clitoris and its anatomy is definitely a strong step in the right direction.

When It Comes to Orgasms, Size Does Matter–Cliterally