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- The G-spot is located around the vagina's front wall about two inches in, but it varies for each person.
- It's not an anatomical structure, but rather an erogenous zone that may produce an intense orgasm.
- Sex positions like missionary, doggy style, and cowgirl allow for direct G-spot stimulation.
- Visit Insider's Health Reference library for more advice.
Orgasms are arguably one of the greatest sensations a person can experience, so it's no wonder there's so much talk about all the different ways that humans can get off – including the elusive G-spot orgasm. The G-spot is thought to be an erogenous zone inside the vagina, and stimulating it is said to bring great pleasure and intense orgasms.
Here's everything you need to know about the G-spot and how to stimulate it.
What is the G-spot?
The G-spot is not an anatomical structure, but rather an erogenous zone that may provide intense pleasure for some – but not all – people with vaginas, says Rachel Needle, PsyD, licensed psychologist and the co-director of Modern Sex Therapy Institutes.
QTB: The term was first coined in the 80s, after doctor Ernst Gräfenberg who first theorized about its existence. The "G" stands for Gräfenberg's last name.
The G-spot is believed to be located about two inches inside the vagina, on the anterior (meaning front) wall, says Kate Balestrieri, PsyD, licensed psychologist, certified sex therapist, and founder of Modern Intimacy.
But the exact location of the G spot varies from person to person. Your G-spot might be a little to the left or right, and it could be located closer to the vaginal opening or located more deeply, Balestrieri says.
Today, it is believed that G-spot stimulation is really just stimulation of the internal shafts of the clitoris, says Needle. This is because the clitoris isn't just the small pea-sized external part of the anatomy -- that's just the tip of the iceberg. There are internal roots of the clitoris on either side that may extend up to four inches downward, says Balestrieri.
However, you shouldn't get hung up on needing to find the G-spot or have a G-spot orgasm. Needle suggests instead of searching for the specific spot, find all the different areas and types of stimulation that work for you.
Furthermore, not everybody experiences pleasure from G-spot stimulation. "Not everyone is wired for pleasure in this area of the body. If you don't feel pleasure where the G-spot is thought to be, it's okay. There are many other ways to experience sexual bliss and orgasm, including clitoral stimulation, nipple and anal play, to name a few," says Balestrieri.
How to locate the G-spot
It's beneficial to find the G-spot yourself before having a partner try to find it.
"I recommend exploring your vulva and vagina to see what feels good and what is most arousing so that you can share that with a partner(s). Find your own erogenous zone and then show your partner(s) how to find it and how to stimulate it," says Needle.
If you want to locate your G-spot yourself, Balestrieri recommends following these steps:
- Ensure you're lubricated, either from self-stimulation or lube.
- Gently insert one or two fingers into your vagina, with your fingers facing the top wall of your vagina, right behind the belly.
- Use your fingers to stroke the area about two inches in with a "come here" motion.
- Take your time exploring the area and the sensations you feel as you stroke the area.
- Notice if you feel an area of tissue about the size of a quarter that feels a little harder or denser than the surrounding area.
"If you can't find your g-spot, please don't worry. It does not mean anything about who you are or the quality of sex life you are destined to have. There are so many ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure, and the G-spot is just one more to add to the list," says Balestrieri.
Best sex positions to stimulate the G-spot
Not all sex positions are created equally when it comes to stimulating the G-spot. Balestrieri recommends trying these three positions to hit the G-spot just right.
1. Missionary: This standard position is actually a great option for G-spot stimulation, especially if you place a pillow or wedge under your hips to elevate your pelvis and give your partner a better angle.
"If you keep your legs closed, the closed missionary position can create more internal containment, which can add to a feeling of pressure and accessibility for more shallow, but just-the-right-depth vaginal and G-spot stimulation," says Balestrieri.
2. Doggy style: This position is a tried and true way to hit the G-spot, Balestrieri says. Your partner will be stroking the G-spot with every thrust. It's also easy to change up your height and angle of access while in the position, such as switching from being on your hands and knees to laying down more flat on your belly. "Changing it up gives you and your partner ample ways to learn about your body, and where your g-spot is most accessible and sensitive," says Balestrieri.
3. Cowgirl: If the partner with the G-spot wants to take the reins, cowgirl is the best position. When they are in control and on top, they can control the speed, depth, and angle, ensuring that the G-spot is properly found and stimulated, says
Insider's takeaway
The G-spot is not its own distinct anatomical structure, rather it's an erogenous zone that can result in pleasure and orgasm for many, but not all, people with vaginas.
If you want, take the time to explore your own body and find your G-spot, and then explore with a partner as well. However, remember that a G-spot orgasm is not the end-all-be-all.
A good orgasm is a good orgasm, no matter the source.