Measured subjective differences in intensity of clitoral and vaginally activated orgasm

ABSTRACT

Objectives: We aimed to investigate the difference in perceived intensity of orgasm among women experiencing clitoral or vaginally activated orgasm (VAO). Method(s) We reviewed data from the Sex@COVID online survey (Mollaioli et al, J Sex Med. 2021 Jan;18(1)35-49) to retrieve a sample of heterosexual Italian sexually active female subjects. Several validated questionnaires and inventories were used to investigate sexual and psychological health (GAD-7, Lowe et al, Med Care 2008;46266-274;PHQ-9, Kroenke et al, J Gen Intern Med 2001;16606-613;FSFI, Rosen et al, J Sex Marital Ther 2000;26191-208). Result(s) 1207 women were included in analysis: 346 were in a non-cohabiting relationship (Group A, 28.7%), 581 were in a cohabiting relationship (Group B, 48.1%) and 280 were married (Group C, 23.2%). 40.9% of the study population reported being able to orgasm through both clitoral stimulation and vaginal penetration (n = 494), 35.4% through clitoral stimulation (n = 427) and 20.1% through vaginal stimulation (n = 243). Additionally, 3.6% (n = 43) reported being unable to reach orgasm at all. By analysis of variance, following adjustment for FSFI, PHQ-9, GAD-7 and age, women experiencing no orgasm had lower orgasmometer scores (beta = -0.75, p <0.001), and VAO were associated with higher orgasmic intensity compared to clitoral orgasms (beta = 0.10, p = 0.008). Experiencing both orgasms had no effect compared to VAO (beta = 0.03, p = 0.545). Women who preferred reaching orgasm through masturbation to partnered sexual activity had lower orgasmic intensity (beta = -0.28, p = 0.002). Groups B and C had better orgasmic intensity compared to group A (beta = 0.08, p = 0.009). Conclusion(s) Orgasmic intensity differs between VAO and clitoral orgasms, independently of other confounding factors. This finding provides additional insight on the role of the clitourethrovaginal complex in female sexual function. Conflicts of Interest None of the authors report any competing interests for the present study. Copyright © 2022