Cunnilingus

Cunnilingus vs fellatio: what’s the difference?

The term fellatio also comes from the Latin and stands for “fellare” (to suck). Fellatio is therefore nothing more than a blowjob – the male equivalent of female cunnilingus. In both cases, it is oral sex – but the part of the body that is put in the mouth is different.

While both sex practices are very popular, women worldwide receive significantly less oral sex than men. A Canadian study found that women give blowjobs significantly more often (63%) but receive oral satisfaction much less often (44%). The desire for oral satisfaction is said to be equally pronounced in each gender.

Cunnilingus: vagina, vulva, clitoris

For many (especially men), a woman’s intimate area is a real mystery. From the vulva lips to the clitoris. During cunnilingus, you can’t just “lick it”. Each region of the female genital area has its own unique sensations, so it’s worth paying different attention to different parts of the body during cunnilingus.

The mons veneris

This area describes the elevation of the skin above the pubic bone and is directly visible from the outside. Kisses or gentle stroking are recommended here during cunnilingus.

Vulval lips

Also known as the labia and labia minora, the vulval lips run parallel to the lateral outer border of the entire vulva. Incidentally, this part of the vulva can swell during sexual arousal. You can lick, kiss, suck and even bite gently here during cunnilingus!

Clitoris

Also known as the pleasure center of the vulva, the clitoris plays an important role in enabling a woman to orgasm. From the outside, only the pea-sized pearl at the top of the vulva can be seen. This area is also known as the clitoris.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Because the clitoris extends all the way inside the body and can be 9 to 12 centimetres long! With over 10,000 nerve endings, the clitoris is extremely sensitive and should really only be licked and not bitten during cunnilingus. You should be as gentle as possible when licking the clitoris.

Vagina

The vagina describes the muscular tube that leads inside the body and ends at the uterus. The vagina is therefore the part of the yoni that you can penetrate. When licking, you can also carefully slide your tongue into the vagina to stimulate your partner.

How do I proceed with cunnilingus?

If you want to try out cunnilingus, there are a few things to bear in mind: First, feel your way slowly. The clitoris is particularly sensitive, but licking and sucking on the labia is also very arousing.

Many women find it particularly hot when one or two are also inserted into the vagina. Fingers can be used to stimulate the G-spot – which, incidentally, is nothing more than a part of the clitoris. Whatever pleases both of you is allowed. Especially the first few times, it makes sense to feel your way a little and see how she reacts to fingering and licking at the same time.

But one thing is important: ask beforehand whether she is ready for it and whether she likes cunnilingus. Don’t just assume! You can also always check back when you’ve tried something new to find out what your partner particularly likes.

Cunnilingus and intimate hair

If you’re getting ready to lick a woman, be aware that her intimate hair could be part of the reality. According to a survey in 2008, 67% of women said that they shaved their genital area completely smooth. However, 34% prefer a partial shave around the vagina.

But whether you have hair or not, it is absolutely inappropriate and definitely mood-destroying to complain about intimate hair before you indulge in cunnilingus. You should accept your partner as she is. Pubic hair in particular is literally natural and has nothing unhygienic about it.

Cunnilingus and vaginal odor

Newsflash – Every vagina has its own odor. This is basically made up of well over 2000 different influences. This means that no two vaginas smell the same. Does your intimate area smell despite hygiene? That’s completely normal! Nevertheless, many women fear that their intimate odor could put off their partner during cunnilingus.

This concern is usually unfounded, as many people don’t shy away from cunnilingus – quite the opposite! Most people in a partnership don’t find the smell and taste of their partner unpleasant at all – which means that cunnilingus can be a noticeable enrichment for your lovemaking.

However, if the vagina has a strong odor of its own, it may well be that the vaginal flora is out of balance. A visit to a gynecologist is recommended to clarify this.

Incidentally, vaginas not only have their own odor, but also a certain taste. Normally, this should be relatively neutral with healthy vaginal flora. However, factors such as diet, pH value and the menstrual cycle also play a “taste” role here.

Tips: Improve vaginal taste and odor

There are a few important things you can do to improve the taste and smell of cunnilingus. Although a woman’s proper intimate hygiene plays an important role, there are also other influencing factors. We recommend the following tips:

1. You are what you eat: Yes, diet plays an important role here too. Avoid eating spicy or greasy foods before oral sex. You should also avoid strong-smelling foods such as asparagus and garlic.
2. Say no to bad habits: Alcohol and cigarettes can also have a negative effect on the taste and smell of your vagina. It’s best to avoid both before cunnilingus.
3. Let your vagina breathe: Yes – we mean that literally! You should avoid tight-fitting and air-impermeable underwear.
4. Take a shower: A normal level of hygiene is important. Especially if you sweat in your intimate area, we recommend simply washing your vulva before cunnilingus. Or make a shower out of it and use it as foreplay!
5. Say no to perfume: Please stay away from perfumed intimate sprays or vaginal douches. They may smell nice, but they will upset the balance of your healthy vaginal flora.
6. Use aids: If you’re not sure how pleasant the smell of your vulva is, then simply use some flavored lubricant.