Feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of sex toys available or uncomfortable using them? Don’t worry-you already possess the ultimate tool for pleasure: your thighs.

Syntribation is a discreet form of masturbation that requires no hands, batteries, or lube. Simply by squeezing your thighs, you can experience pleasure, explains Rachel Zar, PhD, LMFT, a certified sex therapist at Avid Intimacy in Chicago.

You might doubt the simplicity of this technique, but while it takes a bit of practice, it’s not as complex as other methods. “Syntribation is hands-free, making it accessible for those with difficulties using their hands for masturbation,” says Zar. It can be combined with other enjoyable activities, alone or with a partner.

Understanding Syntribation

Syntribation is a hands-free technique that has been used for decades by individuals with vulvas. According to Kimberly Thomas, LPC, CST, a certified sex therapist at Transformation Space Therapeutic Services, LLC in Virginia, it involves crossing and squeezing your thighs, often with rocking or grinding to stimulate the clitoris and vulva.

Squeezing your thighs, particularly when flexing pelvic floor muscles, increases blood flow to the genitals, enhancing arousal and pleasure. The clitoris extends internally along the vulva, so thigh squeezing can feel pleasurable throughout.

While primarily used by those with vulvas, people with penises can also try syntribation by tucking the penis between the thighs for stimulation. However, it might be more challenging when the penis is erect.

Benefits of Syntribation

This technique can add excitement to your sex life, whether solo or with a partner. It’s discreet, making it perfect for situations where privacy is limited. Just ensure you have ample privacy, as those around you have not consented to being part of your intimate moments.

Syntribation benefits those who are sexually inexperienced or struggle to connect with their genitalia. It removes the pressure of knowing specific techniques and allows you to focus on what feels good. As you discover new preferences, you can confidently share them with a partner.

This method is also advantageous for individuals with physical disabilities that limit their ability to engage in other forms of sexual pleasure. It can help reduce stress and improve mood through the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins.

Enhancing Your Experience

Syntribation can be paired with various activities for increased pleasure:

• Try it with a pillow: For those who find vibrations overwhelming, placing a pillow between your thighs can increase pressure. Cross your legs, grind, and enjoy.
• Try it with your clothes on: Clothing can add friction and stimulation to the vulva or clitoris.
• Try it in the bath or shower: The water provides a slippery sensation, reducing chafing and increasing comfort.
• Try it with a vibrator: Enhance the experience by using a vibrator on your vulva or between your thighs.
• Try it during foreplay: It can serve as an excellent warm-up, increasing arousal and pleasure.
• Try it during intercourse: Position your partner behind you for added sensation.

In moments when your usual toys are unavailable, remember that your thighs are always ready to provide pleasure.

Expert Insight

Meet the Experts: Rachel Zar, PhD, LMFT, is a certified sex therapist at Avid Intimacy in Chicago. Kimberly Thomas, LPC, CST, is a certified sex therapist at Transformation Space Therapeutic Services, LLC in Virginia.