Female Masturbation Explained: 4 Tips for Mindful Masturbation

Here are the main types of female masturbation: 1. __Clitoral masturbation__: The clitoris, a small organ at the top of your vulva between your inner lips, contains thousands of nerve endings. This small organ is one of the most sensitive parts of female genitalia, and clitoral stimulation is one of the most common ways for women to achieve orgasm. You can stimulate the clitoris with a vibrator or use your hand to rub, stroke, or apply heavy pressure for significant sexual pleasure and powerful orgasms. 2. __Vaginal masturbation__: While some people have difficulty orgasming through vaginal masturbation, others find stimulation of the vaginal canal extremely pleasurable. The most common way to masturbate vaginally is to [use lube](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-lube) and your fingers or a sex toy. 3. __Anal masturbation__: Some people with vaginas enjoy anal play as a fun way to explore sensations outside of vaginal penetration. You can stimulate your anus using your fingers or an anal toy (such as a butt plug or anal beads) for pleasure. When performing anal masturbation, you’ll need to use lubrication since the anus doesn’t naturally self-lubricate like the vagina. 4. __Combo masturbation__: Masturbation doesn’t have to be limited to one sensation—you can work on creating multiple sensations simultaneously. You can combine clitoral, vaginal, and anal masturbation in various ways to increase your pleasure and discover which sensations feel best. Masturbation can be about more than just achieving a quick orgasm. Engaging in mindful masturbation at least once a week is a great way to relax, release some endorphins, and practice self-love and self-pleasure. If you’re interested in exploring solo sex, here’s a step-by-step guide for your next masturbation session: 1. __Set the mood__. Before you start, you’ll need to set the mood by ensuring privacy and creating a nice ambiance. Lock your door, turn on music, light a candle, change your sheets—whatever puts you at ease. You can take off your clothes or select comfortable loungewear or lingerie, and browse erotica or watch your favorite adult entertainment clip to help get you in the mood. The goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable, safe, and aroused. 2. __Practice deep breathing__. Take slow, deep breaths to relax and center yourself. When you inhale, picture your breath going all the way down to your [pelvic floor](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-do-pelvic-floor-exercises). As you exhale, focus on the sensations that your body feels. Deep breathing increases the blood flow to your pelvic area, which can increase your sensitivity and sexual desire. 3. __Touch your whole body__. Instead of trying to have an orgasm as fast as possible, concentrate on learning what kind of touch you respond to most. Don’t start with your genitals—instead, start by caressing other parts of your body, like your arms, inner thighs, breasts, stomach, or any place else you’re sensitive. These [erogenous zones](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/erogenous-zones-guide) will stimulate blood flow throughout your body and increase your sexual arousal. 4. __Massage your clitoris__. Using a finger or two, rub your clitoris in slow circles—you can do this while the clitoris is under the clitoral hood or after you’ve pulled back the skin of the hood to expose your clitoris. Experiment with different rhythms, movements, and varying levels of pressure to see what feels best. 5. __Increase stimulation__. As your body comes closer to orgasm, increase the pressure or speed of your movements to add to your pleasure, and eventually bring you to orgasm. You can also increase stimulation by adding different sensations at this step—for instance, using a vibrator on your clitoris, inserting your fingers or a dildo into your vagina, or inserting a butt plug into your anus. Finally, experiment with different positions as you masturbate, such as lying on your side, back, or stomach. 6. __Finish__. Masturbation doesn’t always have to end in orgasm, and it’s perfectly fine if you stop before climaxing. If you want to orgasm, you can use it as your stopping point or continue stimulation for a second orgasm in your session. Masturbation is a deeply personal experience, but if you’re looking for some basic mindful tips and techniques, here are some ways to make the most of your masturbation sessions: 1. __Take your time__. Set aside at least 20 minutes per week for mindful masturbation. You can also add more time or increase the frequency of your sessions. During your set masturbation time, focus on being present, in the moment, and enter with the expectations that it will take time. 2. __Deemphasize an orgasm__. Achieving orgasm during mindful masturbation is good but not necessarily the goal. Instead, focus on the exploratory element—different areas of your body, different pressures and speeds, and how sensations ebb and flow. Ask yourself: Does this feel good? Does this turn me on? 3. __Embrace self-love__. Body appreciation is an important aspect of mindful masturbation. Tell yourself you’re sexy. Look, examine, touch, and appreciate your body. If you’re comfortable with it, try bringing a mirror into play so that you can see how your labia and clitoris change appearance when upon arousal. Taking time to get to know your genitalia is an important part of body appreciation. 4. __Practice solo__. Masturbation is an integral part of sexual health and wellness. This sensual act isn’t just for single people or when your partner isn’t around or not in the mood. Taking time for masturbation, even if you have a consistent sex partner, is a significant component of self-care. When you’re in the mood, consider inviting your partner in for a mutual masturbation session to enhance the pleasure further. Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and learn more about open <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communication","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast *Sex With Emily*). Masturbation can be a powerful (and enjoyable) way to better learn about your own body, especially when it comes to focusing on your own pleasure. Learn more about the different types of masturbation, along with helpful tips and techniques.