If you’re a fan of the popular 90s sitcom Friends you might remember the scene where Monica maps out a woman’s seven erogenous zones. Need a refresher (and a laugh)? Watch the cheeky scene below:
What are erogenous zones?
‘Erogenous zones’ refer to parts of the body which are sensitive to sexual stimulation, coming from the Greek words ‘eros’ (love) and ‘genous’ (producing). These heightened areas of sensitivity can give rise to sexual arousal at just the slightest touch, giving you that tingly feeling that makes foreplay oh-so delicious. The theory is that these sensitive areas have nerve-endings and receptors that are especially responsive to light touch and gentle tickling.
These hot spots can enhance the interpersonal interactions of sexual activity (not just sex itself!) and are an easy way to bring more playfulness into your love life. They require a bit of exploration though as erogenous zones vary from person to person – you might enjoy your ear nibbled while your partner finds it too ticklish. In addition, some zones may react better to vibration and pressure (hello toys!) rather than light touch or tickling. The possibilities are rather endless!
Where are the erogenous zones
While the erogenous zones can differ from female to male bodies – and of course, person to person – there are spots that are generally considered pleasurable for most. There might be a few you’ve never thought of, never considered as parts of sexual arousal, or never really paid much attention to. Maybe spend some time figuring out if any of these do it for you, then introduce your partner to your new discoveries and see if they respond to any themselves.
An illustration of the main extragenital erogenous zones by Kels Tyler for lifestyle media brand mindbodygreen.
They’re categorised into two groups: genital vs extragenital. For female bodies the main genital erogenous zones are the G-spot and the vulva, which includes the (most famous but widely neglected) clitoris, the vaginal canal, the vaginal lips or ‘labia’ and the perenium. For male bodies the main genital erogenous zones are the penis shaft, the head of the penis, the scrotum, testicles and the perenium.
The extragenital erogenous zones are those that lie outside the most well-known being:
- inner thighs
- butt cheeks
- nipples
- breasts
- lips
- neck
But there are more! Some spots you might not have realised could stir up that tingly feeling are:
An illustration by Kels Tyler of extragenital erogenous zones for lifestyle media brand mindbodygreen.
- feet
- toes
- back of the knees
- naval and surrounds
- small of the back
- inner arms
- wrists
- hands
- armpits
- ears
- scalp
- the brain
Yes, the brain is in fact the sexiest organ of the body and indeed the most important sexual organ! The brain is the starting point for our feelings of pleasure since anything we find arousing and alluring is computed through it. Keep your partner’s brain turned on and the body will respond.
How to stimulate the erogenous zones
How you choose to stimulate your own and your partner’s erogenous zones is really up to personal likes and dislikes as well as your individual comfort levels. If you’re new to this, start with kissing, gentle stroking with the tips of your fingers, slight tickling and even closely whispering hot breath over these areas.
Other options are using your tongue, massaging with oils, pinching and nibbles. As soon as you and your partner are feeling more confident and adventurous you can bring in textures, different pressures, temperatures and toys. Things like vibrators, silks, feathers, even ice can be arousing!
Remember to take it all at the pace best suited to you and your partner. This isn’t about trying to push sexual limits so much as it is about exploring pleasure in new ways. It can be kinky, it can be more classic and tame – whichever it is, ensure it is what is right for you both.
Most of all, have fun!
