Streaming, a masturbation technique using a shower head's water pressure on the vulva, is discreetly practiced by an estimated 20 million women, according to sex education site OMGYES. The site reports that 62% of women derive sexual pleasure from streaming water onto their vulva.
What Is Streaming?
Streaming involves using the water pressure from a shower or bath to stimulate the clitoris. Gigi, a sex expert from sextoys.co.uk, calls the shower the 'Jack of all trades' for self-pleasure. 'It's a discreet way to masturbate because showers are private by nature, it's time you get for yourself,' she said. 'You have an opportunity to connect with your body and have the relaxation you need to have an orgasm.'
Techniques and Tips
To begin, warm up the rest of the body with the shower head, then circle the clitoris and place the water on the vulva. Varying water pressure can mimic different vibrator patterns. Some shower heads offer settings like rainforest or straight stream. The closer the head is to the vulva, the more intense the sensation.
OMGYES highlights several techniques: 'The run down' places pressure on the clitoral hood, avoiding direct stimulation for sensitive individuals. Direct application on the clitoris can be intense, while indirect splashes to the side offer a milder sensation.
Who Practices Streaming?
Many women first explore self-pleasure in the bathroom due to privacy, especially when living with parents. However, adults also continue the practice. 'When shower heads have been their primary form of masturbation they might be quite habituated to that so it's a more reliable way to orgasm,' Gigi explained.
Safety Precautions
Streaming is only safe for external clitoral stimulation. Shooting water into the vagina can disrupt flora, leading to UTIs, yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis. 'You don't want that,' Gigi warned. Temperature play should be cautious; avoid scalding hot water on sensitive tissue. Cold water may be painful for some. Additionally, avoid masturbating in shared pools or hot tubs for hygiene and respect.
