Squirting vs female ejaculation: we explain the difference

Buongiornooo honorable barnacles,

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

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

The anatomical and biological difference

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

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

• So-called female ejaculation, on the other hand, is a discreet and 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 release from the bladder

The term squirting (or fountain emission) refers to the sudden and abundant expulsion of a clear 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 push releases a liquid that mainly comes from the bladder. Many describe this phenomenon as a strong sensation of pressure leading to a total let-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 uninhibited vocabulary

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

• Inclusivity : Here, we prioritize the terms "people with vulvas" or "people with vaginas" to not limit these phenomena to cisgender women only.

• De-dramatize : The confusion around these terms has long fueled the taboo and the idea that squirting was urine, causing shame and inhibition. Let us remember that the human body naturally produces fluids during arousal; there is NO REASON to be ashamed.

Squirting, ejaculation, and performance pressure

The pornographic industry (yes, again and always) has greatly contributed to idealizing squirting, making it seem like an indicator or even a true proof of a "successful" orgasm.

What to remember:

• It's not a goal : Not squirting or not ejaculating in no way means a lack of pleasure or poor sexual performance.

• The orgasm is multiple : The orgasm is a complex and polymorphic phenomenon. It can be accompanied by various bodily reactions or no visible manifestation.

• Letting go is key : For those who wish to explore these sensations, the most important factor is psychological and physical relaxation. Anxiety or the obligation for results are the worst enemies of pleasure.

The essential thing is to listen, explore, and communicate with your partner(s) to experience a fulfilling sexuality free from any injunction.

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

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

xoxo <3