Squirting vs female ejaculation: we explain the difference

Buongiornooo honourable periwinkles,

Squirting, so-called female ejaculation, fountain emission... These terms are often used interchangeably, creating confusion and sometimes pressure around the sexuality of people with a vulva. Yet science is clear: these are two distinct phenomena that deserve to be demystified without judgement or taboo.

We will clarify what these fluids are, where they come from and what they can mean today. 

The anatomical and biological difference

Biologically, squirting (or fountain emission) and so-called female ejaculation (sometimes called vulvar ejaculation) are not synonymous; they differ mainly in their composition, origin and volume. 

• Squirting is a phenomenon involving the expulsion of a large volume of watery and light liquid, which comes mainly from the bladder and urethra. This liquid is often diluted and can occur with or without intense orgasm.

• So-called female ejaculation, for its part, is a discreet, low-volume flow (about 1 ml maximum) of a denser, whitish fluid. It is produced by the Skene's Glands (often called the female prostate) and contains PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen). Unlike squirting, this phenomenon is generally associated with orgasm.

Squirting: a bladder release

The term squirting (or fountain emission) refers to the sudden expulsion of a large quantity of light liquid through the urethra. Under the effect of intense arousal, and often through stimulation of the g-spot, the urethral area becomes engorged. A muscular contraction releases a liquid that comes mainly from the bladder. Many describe this phenomenon as a strong sensation of pressure that leads to a total letting go.

So-called female ejaculation: the prostatic equivalent

So-called female ejaculation is the true equivalent of so-called male ejaculate. It is produced by the Skene's Glands. At the peak of arousal (often during orgasm), these small glands located on either side of the urethra release a small amount of fluid. Due to its low volume and texture, this liquid often goes unnoticed.

A more inclusive and open vocabulary

It is crucial to adopt language that respects the diversity of bodies and individuals:

• Inclusivity: We prefer the terms "people with a vulva" or "people with a vagina" here, so as not to limit these phenomena to cisgender women only.

• Demystifying it: The confusion around these terms has long fuelled the taboo and the idea that squirting was urine, generating shame and inhibition. Let us remember that the human body naturally produces fluids during arousal; there is ABSOLUTELY NO REASON to feel ashamed.

Squirting, ejaculation and performance pressure

The porn industry (yes, again and always) has greatly contributed to idealising squirting, presenting it as a sign or even definitive proof of a "successful" orgasm.

Key takeaways:

• It is not a goal: Not squirting or not ejaculating does not in any way indicate a lack of pleasure or poor sexual performance.

• Orgasm is multifaceted: Orgasm is a complex and polymorphous phenomenon. It can be accompanied by various bodily reactions or no visible manifestation at all.

• Letting go is key: For those who wish to explore these sensations, the most important factor is psychological and physical release. Anxiety and pressure to perform are pleasure's worst enemies.

The key is to listen to yourself, explore and communicate with your partner(s), to enjoy a fulfilling sex life free from any pressure.

PS: It's often much more fun that way. 

PS2: Tell us in the comments what you think the image in the article represents. 

xoxo <3