What anatomy is involved in female sexual pleasure?

Just an FYI: There are diagrams of female genitals below.

What female anatomy for sexual pleasure is on the outside?

Understanding female anatomy is crucial for sexual pleasure. Female genitals have erectile tissue like males, but it’s arranged differently. The Federation of Feminist Women’s Health Centers’ book provides comprehensive diagrams for a better understanding of female bodies and can be borrowed at Archive.org.

The vulva encompasses all visible parts of female external genitalia, including the mons pubis, outer labia, inner labia, external clitoris, urethral opening, vestibule, and vaginal opening. The parts of the vulva vary in shape, size, and colour from female to female.

The vulva, or female external genitalia. From page 25 of Discovering human sexuality (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin. Sex therapy for women in Lethbridge, Calgary, Edmonton, Alberta, Vancouver, British Columbia — The vulva, or female external genitalia. From page 25 of *Discovering human sexuality* (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin.

The mons pubis is a fatty tissue mound over the pubic bones, covered in hair. It cushions during intercourse and secretes pheromones to attract sexual partners.
Outer and inner labia: The outer labia are fleshy skin folds that protect the inner vulva parts, while the inner labia surround the clitoris and extend around the vagina. They vary in appearance and are sensitive to touch. During arousal, both the outer and inner labia may swell and change colour.
External clitoris: The clitoris is the primary pleasure organ in females, consisting of the glans, hood, and frenulum. It becomes erect and sensitive during arousal. The clitoral body is a tubular pipe of erectile tissue, while the glans is the visible part. The clitoris extends toward the mons and splits into two crura under the inner lips.
Vestibule: Below the clitoris is the vestibule, which surrounds the vaginal and urethral openings. The urethral opening allows for urination. The vaginal opening is partially covered by the hymen, which varies in shape and thickness. The hymen is not a reliable indicator of prior vaginal penetration. The vestibule also contains ducts for paraurethral and greater vestibular glands.
Perineum: The perineum is a smooth area of skin between the vaginal opening and the anus. It contains the perineal sponge, which responds well to stimulation. The anus, lined with nerve endings, can also provide pleasure when stimulated.

What female genital anatomy is on the inside?

Female internal genital anatomy includes the internal clitoris, vestibular bulbs or clitoral bulbs, the urethral sponge, the paraurethral glands, the greater vestibular glands, the vagina, the uterus, the cervix, and a bunch of muscles.

Structure of the clitoris. The inner labia are shown as if transparent. From page 26 of Discovering human sexuality (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin. Sex therapy for women in Lethbridge, Calgary, Edmonton, Alberta, Vancouver, British Columbia — Structure of the clitoris. The inner labia are shown as if transparent. From page 26 of *Discovering human sexuality* (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin.

Internal Clitoris: The internal clitoris consists of the crura, vestibular bulbs, and urethral sponge. The crura anchor the clitoris, while the vestibular bulbs surround the urethra and vagina. The urethral sponge surrounds the urethra and is sometimes referred to as the G-spot. It may produce pleasurable sensations when stimulated. The urethral sponge houses paraurethral glands, which can release female ejaculate. Female ejaculation is not common and not necessary for pleasure. It’s important to focus on what feels good for you, rather than pressure to ejaculate.

Side view of the internal female sexual organs. From page 31 of Discovering human sexuality (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin. Sex therapy for women in Lethbridge, Calgary, Edmonton, Alberta, Vancouver, British Columbia — Side view of the internal female sexual organs. From page 31 of *Discovering human sexuality* (4th ed.) by LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin.

Vagina: The vagina is a flexible tube between the urethral sponge and rectum. It can expand or contract as needed and functions as a passage for menstrual blood, semen, and childbirth. Proper stimulation can also provide pleasure. It should be noted that deep thrusting may be pleasurable when aroused and the cervix is lifted, while inadequate arousal can cause discomfort. The vagina has natural lubrication, which increases with arousal. It is self-cleaning, and external washing is sufficient. Water or a gentle cleanser can be used for the external vulva, but not inside the vagina.
Uterus and cervix: The cervix separates the vagina and uterus. The uterus is a pear-shaped organ, with the round ligament supporting it. During arousal and orgasm, the uterus lifts, creating space for sperm and protecting the cervix. Hysterectomy may affect orgasm sensation.’
Muscles: Female genital anatomy includes important muscles that support the perineum and pelvic floor. Tight and weak muscles can lead to pain and urinary urgency. Kegel exercises should only be done under professional guidance. A comprehensive discussion is beyond the scope of this guide.

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