Do Women Ejaculate? What is Squirting?
Yes, women can ejaculate. While some women are aware that they do, others may not realize it. Both scenarios are normal. There is no benefit to pressuring oneself to ejaculate, nor should there be any expectation from a partner.
How It Happens
The Skene’s glands, located on either side of the urethra, can secrete a small amount of fluid during sexual activity, typically around 1-2ml or a few drops. This fluid, known as ejaculate, is not urine and usually dribbles out, which is why many women might not notice it.
What About Squirting?
Squirting remains a controversial and misunderstood topic with limited research. Much of what is known comes from pornography, where the depiction is often exaggerated for entertainment purposes.
Women who report squirting describe it variably. The fluid amount can range from a few drops to half a cup or more, always coming from the urethra, not the vagina. This watery fluid likely contains traces of urine and other fluids. Firm stimulation to the urethral sponge, a spongy, erectile tissue around the urethra, often causes squirting. This area swells during arousal, and its stimulation correlates with reports of squirting.
Squirting may occur with or without orgasm and can be associated with pleasure for some, but not all.
Pleasure is Your Guide
When exploring sexual techniques, let pleasure be your guide. Avoid putting pressure on yourself or letting a partner pressure you to achieve a specific outcome, as this can lead to sexual shame, frustration, and decreased desire. Focus on enjoying the sexual experiences, explore with mutual consent, and remain curious about discovering more pleasure.