Exploring New Sensations

For individuals with vulvas, there are 11 types of orgasms and countless ways to achieve them. While one person might only climax during oral sex, another may require a specific vibrator. Each person’s experience is unique.

Discovering new methods of achieving orgasm can enhance your understanding of your body and introduce fresh sensations. “We need variety. Otherwise, your body becomes accustomed to a specific type of sensation,” says Shannon Chavez, PsyD, CST, a sex therapist and psychologist. “Experimenting with different techniques reveals the multitude of ways to reach orgasm.” One such method is experiencing a hands-free orgasm.

Hands-free orgasms can offer distinct benefits, activating the mind-body connection through breath and movement, Chavez explains. “Focusing on techniques can distract us from feeling, whereas hands-free experiences can deepen our awareness.”

Understanding Hands-Free Orgasms

This type of orgasm occurs without using your or your partner’s hands or fingers, and without holding stimulating toys. Your hands are free to explore other areas of your body or hold onto something like a bed frame, as suggested by Chavez.

Hands-free orgasms can be achieved during masturbation or partnered sex. During penetrative or oral sex, you can use your hands to touch your partner, suggests Vanessa Marin, LMFT, author of Sex Talks. However, Marin advises against attempting a hands-free orgasm if you struggle with orgasms in general. It’s best to learn with hands first.

Techniques to Try

1. Revisit Early Experiences: For many, early arousal involved rubbing against objects. This can be revisited through dry humping or grinding against furniture or a partner’s thigh, suggests Jess O’Reilly, PhD, host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast.

2. Oral Sex: Receiving oral sex can lead to a hands-free orgasm. With free hands, you can connect with your partner by touching their hair or face, Marin advises.

3. Hands-Free Toys: Some toys are designed for hands-free use, like panty vibrators. These can be controlled remotely by a partner, adding an element of surprise and connection.

4. Shower Power: Water can also be an orgasmic tool. A specialty shower head or even your regular shower can stimulate the clitoris, but be cautious of water temperature.

5. Positions and Techniques: Grinding positions, such as woman-on-top, can facilitate a hands-free climax. Adjusting positions to suit your needs can enhance the experience.

Solo Exploration

If you lack a partner or toys, you can still achieve a hands-free orgasm by focusing on your hips and pelvis. Chavez recommends the ‘rock and roll technique’ developed by Betty Dodson, which involves moving your hips and contracting pelvic floor muscles.

Stimulating Other Erogenous Zones

While the clitoris is often key, other areas like nipples, necks, knees, and lower backs can also lead to orgasm, O’Reilly notes. Stimulating the vulva’s surrounding areas might trigger an orgasm as well.

Mental Orgasms

Fantasy alone can sometimes lead to orgasm. While a small percentage achieve orgasm through thought alone, many use this technique to enhance arousal before incorporating other methods.

Breath and Relaxation

Relaxed, audible breathing is crucial for triggering a relaxed nervous system, facilitating orgasm. Chavez suggests practicing deep breaths and audible exhales during solo or partnered sex.

The Journey of Pleasure

Orgasms, whether hands-free or not, are enjoyable and offer health benefits. However, they can be elusive. Marin reassures that struggling with orgasm is common and encourages familiarity with your body. Chavez emphasizes that orgasm is a side effect of pleasure, not the primary goal. Enjoy the journey of discovering what feels good for you.