Women's experiences of female ejaculation and/or squirting: a Swedish cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: Women's experiences of the expulsion of fluids during sexual stimulation, commonly referred to as female ejaculation/squirting, are not well comprehended in the existing literature.

Aim: To investigate women's knowledge about and experiences of female ejaculation/squirting.

Methods: Data from 1568 women (aged 18 to 69) were collected using a cross-sectional online-based questionnaire (in Swedish).

Outcomes: The study focused on descriptive features of knowledge about, reactions to, occurrence of, and sensations around female ejaculation/squirting.

Results: Among the participants, 58% had experienced ejaculation/squirting (significantly more often among non-heterosexuals). Among women without such experience, only one-third would like it to happen. Among women with such experience, ejaculation/squirting occurred consistently during sexual practice for a small percentage (7%) and on a few occasions for about half (52%). Despite most (77%) rating it as primarily a positive sensation, many reacted with shock/shame (28%) or thought they had urinated (26%) the first time it occurred. Many (61%) reported orgasm occurring close to, or simultaneously, with ejaculation/squirting, and these women were more likely to report it as a positive sensation (P < .001). Despite overall positive aspects, 58% had wanted to avoid it at some point, mainly because it got too wet or due to insecurities about the content of the fluid. Having wanted to avoid it at some point was more likely among those who sensed the fluid as being expelled from the urethra (P < .001) or whose partner reacted negatively to it (P < .001).

Clinical translation: This study contributes with a nuanced understanding of women's experiences of ejaculation/squirting and related challenges.

Strengths and limitations: This study is the first to explore women's desire for ejaculation/squirting, their initial reactions, and reasons for avoidance. There are limitations due to the nature of the data collection, such as missing data and potential overrepresentation of women who are informed and open-minded about ejaculation/squirting.

Conclusion: Ejaculation/squirting is a common occurrence among women and, despite being perceived predominantly positively, particularly when linked with an orgasm, initial reactions, and avoidance underscore complexities related to excessive wetness and insecurities about the fluid's content.