Female ejaculation: a phenomenon still surrounded by myths
Female ejaculation sparks curiosity… and still raises many questions. Between media portrayals, social media, and pornography, it can be easy to get confused and lose sight of what is true or not.
Yet, it is primarily a natural physiological phenomenon that can occur in some individuals during sexual arousal or orgasm. Like many aspects of human sexuality, it is still only partially understood by science. Studies are limited and findings are sometimes contradictory, which explains why many myths persist.
What is female ejaculation?
Female ejaculation refers to the expulsion of fluid through the urethra during sexual arousal or orgasm in some individuals.
This phenomenon can take different forms:
- A small amount of thicker fluid, often associated with the paraurethral glands (also known as Skene’s glands), located near the urethra.
- A more abundant release of fluid, often referred to as “squirting.”
What is important to remember: this is a normal phenomenon and is not associated with a health problem.
A highly variable experience from one person to another
There is no single way to experience this phenomenon, as the amount of fluid, sensations, and timing can vary from person to person. For some, it may occur during strong sexual arousal, at the time of orgasm, or even without orgasm.
The experience also differs greatly between individuals: some describe an intense feeling of release, while others barely notice it. Some women may experience it regularly, others occasionally, and many never experience it at all.
To better understand the different stages of the sexual response, see this article: Sexual response: understanding the body's reactions
Key takeaway: this is not a skill that can be “learned” or developed. Each body responds differently.
Why is this phenomen often misunderstood?
Compared with male sexuality, female ejaculation has not been studied as extensively. This has left many gaps in knowledge and led to several myths.
A frequent confusion with urine
Because the fluid is expelled through the urethra, many people assume it is simply urine or incontinence. However, research suggests that its composition can vary depending on the case.*
Unrealistic expectations
Another common misconception is the belief that all women should be able to ejaculate. This idea can create unnecessary pressure or feelings of inadequacy.
Influence of media and pornography
In some content, squirting is portrayed as proof of intense orgasm or “greater” pleasure. In reality:
- it is not systematically linked to orgasm
- it is not an indicator of greater pleasure
- it can occur with or without orgasm
To learn more about female and male orgasm: Demystifying male and female orgasms: Understanding the differences
What science is still trying to understand
Although knowledge is advancing, several questions remain open: the exact origin of the expelled fluids, the distinction between female ejaculation and squirting, the neurological mechanisms involved, and why some people experience it while others do not.
This highlights the complexity of human sexuality, which does not follow a single model.
Understanding your body, without pressure
Female ejaculation should never be seen as a goal or a performance to achieve. Its presence or absence is both normal.
What matters most is to:
- better understand your body
- recognize your sensations
- experience sexuality without comparison or pressure
Ultimately, sexuality is not a performance to succeed at, but a personal experience to explore at your own pace.
*https://academic.oup.com/smoa/article/12/5/qfae074/7908788?utm_source=chatgpt.com&login=false
Article written in collaboration with Au Lit avec Anne-Marie