Your clitoris (and the nearby G-spot) deserves all the attention you can possibly give it. It’s easy to find all sorts of dildos, vibrators, and other toys to make sexy time fun, but you might get additional satisfaction from stimulating creams and gels.
Read on for more information on these sexual enhancement tools to help you decide whether you want to give one a try!
Understanding the Clitoris: What is the Clitoris?
For many people with female reproductive anatomy, the clitoris is the most sensitive part of the vulva. The vulva is the external section of your genitals that’s visible with the naked (ayyo!) eye.Â
The clitoris has more than 10,000 nerve fibers, which make it extremely sensitive to touch and stimulation. (Source) It engorges when stimulated, as blood rushes to the location.
Where is the Clitoris?
The part of the clitoris that’s easily reachable from the outside is a pea-sized bit of flesh that sits at the top, or crest, of the labia minora. When we talk about the top of the vulva, we’re talking about the area closest to your stomach and belly button.
The outermost part of the clitoris is only one section of the clitoral network, which extends around four inches inside the body. This network works together to help you experience sexual pleasure.
Clitoral Orgasms versus Vaginal Orgasms
Did you know that stimulating the clitoris can result in a unique type of orgasm? Clitoral orgasms are different from vaginal orgasms, which occur during penetration, although you can experience both at the same time (blended).
Popular Clitoral Stimulants
Role of Clitoral Stimulants
Clitoral creams, gels, lubes, and other stimulants aim to increase pleasure emanating from the clitoris during masturbation or intercourse. They’re simply tools that can increase arousal and satisfaction for women and people with vaginas. Some users claim clitoral stimulants give them more intense orgasms.
Creams and Gels
Clitoral stimulant creams and gels are meant to be applied directly to the clitoris. Different creams have different ingredients, but many have either menthol or peppermint oil, which can produce tingly and vibrating sensations.Â
Another key ingredient in clitoral creams is arginine, a neurotransmitter that helps increase blood flow to surfaces it’s applied to. (Source)
Supplements
We should at least mention in this guide that you can find over-the-counter supplements that contain arginine and other chemicals included in many creams. The main difference between supplements and creams lies in the time it takes to work. It’s wise to take supplements an hour or so before sexual activity, while topical creams often start working immediately or within a few minutes.