fingering

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An illustration of fingering.

Fingering is the practice of manual manipulation of the clitoris, vagina, vulva or anus for the purpose of sexual arousal and stimulation. It is analogous to the handjob (manual stimulation of the penis), and is a common form of foreplay or mutual masturbation. To "finger oneself" is to masturbate in this manner.

Digital penetration is penetration (for example sexual penetration), with one or more fingers.

Vaginal fingering

An illustration of a woman fingering her vulva

Vaginal fingering can end in orgasm; it also may or may not constitute the entire sexual encounter. It may be part of foreplay or part of a precursor to other sexual activities. These activities can provide sexual pleasure to a partner when penetrative intercourse is not possible or desirable.

Vaginal fingering is legally and medically called "digital penetration of the vagina"^{[citation needed]}, and may be performed with one or more fingers.

Fingering the vagina is often performed in an effort to stimulate the G-spot or A-spot. Fingering the external tissues is more likely to lead to orgasm for many women, as these muscles are not controlled by the autonomic nervous system, meaning the response depends less on the psychological state of the woman toward her partner^{[citation needed]}. The G-spot is located roughly 5 cm up on the anterior wall of the vagina, facing toward the belly button. It can most easily be recognized by its ridges and slightly rougher texture compared to the more cushion-like vaginal cavity walls around it.^{[citation needed]} The A-spot is located deeper in the vagina, on the same wall as the G-spot, where the vaginal wall starts to curve upward (the entrance to the anterior fornix).

Fingering the G-spot is a commonly cited method which can often lead to female ejaculation. This release of fluid can range significantly in quantity and force of expulsion, varying from woman to woman and also varying with different scenarios for each woman. The fluid following a G-spot ejaculation is released from the urethra but is not urine, as its contents do not come in contact with those of the bladder at any stage. This female ejaculate contains antibodies only found in the male prostate; leading to speculation that it is produced by a structure homologous to the prostate. Similarities are sometimes drawn with the fingering or other manipulation of the male prostate through the anus.

Fingering the A-spot is a relatively uncommon method that can often result in rapid lubrication and arousal without any other stimulation. If stimulation is continued, it can result in orgasm.

Many women^{[weasel words]} have cited the "come hither" approach as a significant catalyst to orgasm^{[citation needed]}. This technique involves the middle finger, sometimes additionally the index finger, making the hand gesture of "come hither" with palm facing upwards against her pubic bone. There is no technique for stimulating the G-spot or A-spot that is preferred by all women, but the A-spot's discoverer, Dr. Chua Chee Ann, has promoted the A-spot stimulation technique as the most effective means of stimulating the A-spot.

Medical professionals suggest washing the hands before contact with the vagina, to avoid spreading bacteria and causing infections^{[citation needed]}. Worthy of special attention is the washing of hands after any finger contact with the anus, to avoid the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina.

Anal fingering

Fingering of the anus and rectum is commonly enjoyed in preparation for further anal sex. Anal fingering can arouse the receiver, allowing them to relax their anus and prepare them for the insertion of a penis or a dildo.

Anal fingering is an effective^{[citation needed]} way of stimulating the prostate gland of males, and thus bringing the receiver to orgasm. The orgasms produced by anal fingering of a male are usually much more pleasurable^{[citation needed]} than the orgasm of regular masturbation and the amount of semen that is ejaculated is increased^{[citation needed]}, thus producing a more satisfying and pleasurable orgasm. Anal fingering can also stimulate the perineal sponge in females. Anal fingering is commonly enjoyed by both homosexual and some heterosexual couples.

Safety

The practice is generally considered safe sex as long as the hands are protected with a latex gloves.^[1] The nails should be trimmed and filed; long, sharp or jagged nails can cause cuts, injury or severe infection. If there are cuts, infections or open wounds on the fingers extreme protection and care is necessary. If finger cots are used they may slip off and remain inside the receptive partner. The hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water before eating or placing them in the mouth. If stimulating both the anus and vagina a new latex glove should be used for each to avoid cross-contamination.

See also

• Shocker (hand gesture)
• Masturbation
• Anal sex
• Fisting

References