The cervix is located at the very back of the vagina and surrounded by a lot of nerves, which may feel good when stimulated, explains Good Vibrations sexologist Carol Queen, Ph.D., Depending on the owner’s phase of their menstrual cycle, reaching the cervix may involve pretty deep penetration, adds OB-GYN Sherry A. Ross, M.D., and that feeling of “fullness” combined with the stimulation of those deep vaginal nerve endings can produce an orgasm for some people. Cervical orgasms aren’t necessarily common, though, Ross says, and for some people, having the cervix touched can actually feel uncomfortable or painful. That said, one older study from 19851 found at least some women “reliably trigger orgasm through vaginal or cervical stimulation,” and another small older study of 132 women found cervical stimulation contributed to the orgasms of 46% of them. “The majority of women need to have some degree of direct clitoral stimulation to have an orgasm,” Ross notes, though she adds that some people actually experience indirect stimulation of the clitoris through vaginal sex since the majority of the structure of the clitoris is actually internal and wraps around the vaginal canal. “With deep penetration during sexual intercourse, some women are more sexually aroused,” Ross adds. According to research involving MRI scans of the brain’s response to cervical touch, the nerve endings stimulated by cervical stimulation—which are the nerves in the deep pelvic region—are different from those stimulated by clitoral stimulation, which seems to send sensory signals to the brain via the spine2. In addition to the neurology, Queen adds that having past erotic experiences involving cervical stimulation might contribute to why some people find this type of stimulation feels particularly good. “If someone has had an arousing experience involving the cervix, it’s likely that this area will retain erotic potential,” they explain. “Make sure the vagina is adequately lubricated and fingernails are trimmed if you choose to explore with fingers,” Ross reminds. “Make sure you’re pretty turned on to begin with since vaginal penetration can feel irritating or painful if it commences before arousal does,” Queen says. Brighten adds, “Your cervix can be tender if you hit it too hard, so take it slowly.” “For some, rhythmic intercourse with a partner whose penis (or strap-on!) can reach the cervix is perfect,” Queen says. Some other types of touch you could try, according to Queen, include: “Relax and start with the basics (like missionary position), and work up to doggy style, which helps you reach the deepest penetration for cervical orgasm,” Brighten recommends. “There is no one-size-fits-all here; it’s about exploring what works for your body.” “Some people find the anterior fornix is sensitive, and a slim toy that can reach up alongside the cervix can help you explore it,” they say. “A partner’s fingers can stimulate here too.” “Achieving a cervical orgasm requires a strong dose of mindfulness, so if you want to make one happen for you, consider taking up a regular meditation practice,” she says. “Many women say to achieve them, you must be absolutely centered on your pelvis. If you want cervical orgasms, mindfulness matters!” As Ross puts it, “The cervix contains nerve fibers that can create discomfort for most or pleasure for a few.” If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort from cervical play, don’t force it—not everyone’s bodies are receptive to this type of touch, and there are plenty of other types of orgasms to explore. “If a person finds it painful (as opposed to ‘meh’), it would be a good idea to tell a doctor about that,” Queen adds. “Pelvic inflammatory disease and other health problems can result in a tender cervix and uterus that convey pain, not pleasure.” With her warm, playful approach to coaching and facilitation, Kelly creates refreshingly candid spaces for processing and healing challenges around dating, sexuality, identity, body image, and relationships. She’s particularly enthusiastic about helping softhearted women get re-energized around the dating experience and find joy in the process of connecting with others. She believes relationships should be easy—and that, with room for self-reflection and the right toolkit, they can be. You can stay in the loop about her latest programs, gatherings, and other projects through her newsletter: kellygonsalves.com/newsletter
