Squirting is the expulsion of fluid from the female urethral opening, usually around orgasm, caused by stimulation of the front wall of the vagina. In English it is also called female ejaculation. Unlike male ejaculation, it is not necessarily accompanied by pleasure, and the amount of fluid varies widely. The Japanese name comes from its resemblance to a whale spouting water.
Definition and terms
Strictly speaking, squirting is the release of urine from the bladder during orgasm, while female ejaculation refers to the release of both urine and substances from the Skene's glands. It is also distinguished from incontinence, which occurs when bladder control is lost during sexual activity. In everyday conversation, however, the term is often used for all three. Squirting does not always involve a large volume of fluid.
Occurrence and research
Between 10% and 54% of people with a vagina report having experienced squirting. However, not everyone can do it, and no method is known to reliably produce it. Biochemical and immunological studies have detected PSA and PAP in the Skene's glands, sometimes called the female prostate. These substances are also released from the male prostate during ejaculation, which suggests that women may produce them as well.
Nerve supply
The clitoris and vaginal walls are mainly supplied by the pudendal nerve of the somatic nervous system, which controls movement and sensation. The bladder, urethra and prostate are mainly supplied by the pelvic nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system, which also governs movement and sensation.