6 Surprising and Bizarre Ways Women Reach Orgasm

By now we all know that the majority of women do not have orgasms during intercourse, but some of the other ways we climax might just surprise you.

From unconventional methods to startling locations, read on to discover some of the remarkable ways women experience mind-blowing orgasms.

Working Out

You’ve probably heard that doing your kegels can make your nether regions tingle with delight, but would you ever have guessed that abdominal crunches could have the same effect? That’s right! Reports of women reaching new heights of sexual pleasure while exercising are baffling scientists who can’t yet explain these so-called coregasms.

From crunches and push-ups to weightlifting and spinning, women are leaving the gym all worked up in more ways than one. So if you’re wondering why you feel all hot and bothered after a good core workout, rest assured that it’s not the men in unitards revving your engine.

Thinking Off

Look Ma, No hands!

While a little rubbing, tugging and vibrating may be just what the doctor ordered for most of us, a very small percentage of women can actually have hands-free (and toy-free) orgasms through fantasy alone. In fact, sex researchers have even used MRI machines to observe this phenomenon as further evidence that the brain truly is our most powerful sex organ.

Sleeping

Men aren’t the only ones having wet dreams. People of all genders can have orgasms while we sleep although the “evidence” isn’t always as clear when we wake up. While often accompanied by naughty sex dreams, these orgasms are spontaneous and are relatively common, as our sexual inhibitions are set aside during the relaxation of a deep sleep.

In addition to spontaneous sleep orgasms, some of us even have sex in our sleep without realizing it and scientists classify this unconscious behaviour as sexsomnia.

Childbirth

Most of the mothers I work with simply can’t imagine an orgasmic childbirth, but those who have experienced it say it was both immensely powerful and pleasurable. Some experts even refer to it as “the best-kept secret”, but I’m not willing to go that far. I’m all for minimizing pain, but I’m reticent to promote one more sexual experience that you must try. If it happens, so be it, but if not, that’s okay too.

If you’re curious about the science behind orgasmic childbirth, experts believe that it results from the combination of direct physical stimulation and hormonal surges experienced during labour.

Yoga

Yoga may be good for the body, mind, and soul, but the latest research suggests that it may also have sexual benefits beyond strengthening your pelvic floor muscles.

Reports of impromptu orgasms during group classes across North America has led to the coining of a new term, yogasms. Some practitioners even specialize in orgasmic yoga touting it as a transformative practice that can be practiced alone, with a lover or as part of a group.

Yogi and sex writer Steph Auteri explains that this connection may be related to flexing of the mula bandha during yoga practice. “This is the root chakra and is located directly between the sphincter muscle and the one that controls the flow of urine. When you work your mula bandha, the exercise is very similar to what you're doing when you work your PC muscles during kegel exercises.” Auteri adds that the regular practice of yoga also contributes to an increased awareness of your body, which can facilitate different types of orgasms.

Breastfeeding

Reaching orgasm through breast and nipple stimulation is perfectly normal, as these areas activate the same sensory area of the brain that lights up when you stimulate the clitoris, vagina and cervix. Breastfeeding orgasms are no exception.

Though not commonly discussed, many women who have experienced orgasms while breastfeeding report that the experience is sensual, but not sexual. The connection between breastfeeding and orgasm is two-fold: our nipples and breasts can be highly sensitive during this time period and the release of oxytocin, which is linked to orgasmic uterine contractions as well as milk ejection, can facilitate the physical response.

While some women are uncomfortable with these sensations, the reality is that our bodies sometimes respond to physical stimulation even if our minds are at odds with the physiological response.

For more tips on reaching a climax, read here.