Sexpert’s guide to beating ‘orgasm gap’ – from foreplay tips to booze ban
Straight women orgasm the least out of everyone – shocking but not surprising.
The phenomenon, known as the ‘orgasm gap’ or the ‘pleasure gap’, refers to the disparity between how often men and women get their jollies during sex.
It also takes into account heterosexuality vs homosexuality – and unsurprisingly straight men get off the most.
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The term was coined by doctor Lauri Mintz after her study found that women have orgasms 39% of the time during sex compared to 91% for men.
Simply put, sex is often a disappointing experience for women and even in instances where they’re enjoying the race, they rarely get to cross the finish line.
(Image: Getty Images/Onoky)
The NHS defines an orgasm as a feeling of intense pleasure that happens during sexual activity. There are many reasons why women may struggle to achieve the big O.
Orgasm issues can be placed in two categories depending on whether you’ve ever had an orgasm or you’re just in a rough patch.
But according to Dr Mintz, one of the biggest reasons women aren’t orgasming is cultural ignorance of the clitoris.
A gynaecologist and a psychosexual therapist both spoke to The Independent to share seven reasons why women may be struggling to find their release – and how to beat it.
(Image: Getty Images)
How to beat the ‘orgasm gap’
Alcohol intake
Dr Shree Datta, of Intima, revealed alcohol can impact blood flow to the clitoris – making orgasms harder to achieve.
Communication issues
Not feeling like you can tell your partner what you want, and how you want it can be a huge factor according to Kate Moyle, psychosexual therapist for Lelo.
She suggests: “Being positive, non-critical, and encouraging is the best way to approach it. Not ‘you aren’t doing that right, more ‘I really enjoyed it when you X, could we try that again?’”.
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
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Lack of body confidence
If you aren’t comfortable in your own skin, you’re never going to be fully immersed in the moment.
Moyle explains: “This is because negative thoughts prevent us from letting go and allowing the physical sensations to be the focus.”
Medical conditions
There are a number of medical conditions that can make it difficult or impossible for women to orgasm.
Medications for pre-existing conditions such as depression and allergies could inhibit a woman’s ability to climax.
Sexual stimulation
It’s no secret many women can’t reach total bliss through penetration alone – they need extra stimulation too.
Dr Datta said: “With that in mind, sexual foreplay is important. Additionally, think about different positions and guided masturbation which may increase arousal.”
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Social pressures
Again, if you’re distracted by stress at work, financial worries, or even your to-do list then you’re not going to let yourself go enough to reach the end goal.
“This can also include relationship problems, particularly if there is mistrust or conflicts that have not been addressed,” Dr Datta adds.
Mental wellbeing
Your mental wellbeing can also contribute to your ability to climax, says Dr Datta.
If this sounds like you then they recommend seeking help from your doctors.
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