A vaginal orgasm is a female orgasm that occurs due to stimulation in the vagina rather than directly on the clitoris. In some women, stimulation in this area can cause an increase in blood flow to the area, resulting in a build-up in tension. Once the tension is released, a vaginal orgasm occurs, which can cause contractions in the vagina and surrounding area. Many women are not able to achieve this type of orgasm, which some researchers believe is because the base of the clitoris, which is inside of the vaginal canal, is not close enough to the surface.

The two primary types of orgasm that a woman can achieve are clitoral and vaginal orgasms. The clitoris, located above the vaginal opening and beneath the clitoral hood, contains over 8,000 nerve endings that can cause a woman to experience sexual pleasure. When this gland is stimulated, it can cause a woman to reach orgasm. A vaginal orgasm, however, is reached through stimulation in the vagina itself, typically through penetration.

Stimulation inside of the vagina can cause an increase in lubrication and blood flow to the area, increasing sensitivity of pleasurable nerves in the area. The increase in blood flow can cause a build-up of tension in this area of the body due to the higher than normal amount of blood. After a certain point, the blood flow rushes back, resulting in a release of the tension and causing a sensation of pleasure. This release, known as a vaginal orgasm, can cause enjoyable contractions of the muscles inside the vagina, rectum, and, in some cases, even the uterus.

While some women experience a vaginal orgasm due to the location of pleasurable nerves in the opening and outer third of the vagina, many researchers believe that a vaginal orgasm is also caused by the clitoris. In some women, the base of the clitoris, which is located inside of the vagina, is close enough to the wall to be stimulated from the inside, rather than directly on the outer part of the clitoris. This area, often referred to as the “g-spot,” varies in location by individual.

A large portion of women find it difficult or impossible to achieve a vaginal orgasm. While the reason for this varies, some doctors believe that this is because the base of the clitoris is not located deep enough or in a prime location in the vaginal canal to be stimulated from the inside. Difficulty achieving a vaginal orgasm can also be due to hormone levels or where a woman’s nerves are located in and around the vagina.