Introduction
Female ejaculation is a topic that sparks curiosity, misconception, and sometimes controversy. In recent decades it has moved from the margins of sexual folklore into the scope of clinical research and sex education. This first part of a multipart article provides an evidence-based overview: definitions, anatomy and physiology hypotheses, what empirical studies show about prevalence and composition, and why there is still disagreement among clinicians and researchers.
What do we mean by "female ejaculation"?
Terminology is a common source of confusion. Authors and clinicians often use several related terms: female ejaculation, squirting, and urinary incontinence during sexual activity. For clarity in this article:
- "Female ejaculation" refers to the expulsion of a small to moderate volume of fluid from the female urethra that some studies associate with stimulation of tissue adjacent to the urethra (often linked to the so-called Skene's glands or "female prostate"). This fluid tends to be biochemical distinct from urine in some analyses.
- "Squirting" is frequently used to describe the emission of a larger volume of fluid during sexual arousal or orgasm. Biochemical analyses of squirting often show a composition more similar to diluted urine, though findings are mixed.
- It's important to distinguish voluntary or reflexive fluid release from pathological urinary leakage; the latter can be a medical concern requiring different management.
Anatomy and proposed physiological sources
The anatomical structures discussed in connection with female ejaculation include the Skene's glands (paraurethral glands), the urethra, and surrounding erectile and connective tissues. The Skene's glands are glandular tissues located near the distal urethra; some researchers consider them homologous to the prostate in males and therefore refer to them as the "female prostate." These glands can produce prostatic-type secretions containing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) in some studies.
Hypotheses about the physiological source(s) of ejaculate include:
- Secretion from Skene's/paraurethral glands triggered by sexual stimulation.
- Transient release of urine or a mixture of glandular secretions and diluted urine due to increased pelvic blood flow and bladder pressure during arousal and muscular contractions.
- A combination of glandular secretion and bladder expulsion, the proportions of which may vary between people and episodes.
What does the research say about composition?
Studies that chemically analyze expelled fluid often yield heterogeneous results. Some samples show markers commonly associated with prostatic secretions (PSA, PAP), suggesting a glandular component. Other samples resemble urine in their electrolyte and urea content, supporting the idea that at least some episodes involve bladder emptying.
Key methodological points that affect findings:
- Sample timing and collection method: If the bladder is not emptied before stimulation, fluid may be predominantly urine. Conversely, catheterized or carefully collected periurethral secretions may reveal glandular markers.
- Small sample sizes and selection bias: Many studies enrolled small numbers of participants, sometimes recruited because they reported ejaculation, which can overrepresent atypical patterns.
- Variability between individuals and between events in the same person: One person may experience glandular-leaning samples on some occasions and urine-dominant samples on others.
Prevalence and variability
Estimates of how common female ejaculation or squirting is vary widely. Survey-based studies report lifetime prevalence rates ranging from low percentages to over half of respondents, depending on definitions and sampling methods. Laboratory studies typically report lower prevalence because the controlled setting may not replicate partners, context, or arousal patterns that facilitate the phenomenon for some individuals.
Several factors likely influence whether someone experiences ejaculatory phenomena:
- Individual anatomical variation: size and responsiveness of paraurethral tissues likely differ among people.
- Type and intensity of stimulation: some people report that direct anterior vaginal wall stimulation, G-spot stimulation, or urethral-adjacent stimulation is more likely to elicit fluid release.
- Psychological and relational context: relaxation, trust with a partner, and reduced performance pressure can affect arousal and physiological responses.
- Hydration and bladder state: a fuller bladder may increase the likelihood of larger-volume expulsions that resemble urine.
Why disagreement persists
Disagreement persists in the literature and clinical practice because of methodological challenges, semantic differences in definitions, and the natural variability of human sexual responses. Some clinicians emphasize the role of glandular secretions and the existence of a "female prostate," while others point out that many samples are chemically indistinguishable from urine. Both perspectives can be compatible if one accepts that fluid expelled during sexual activity may derive from multiple sources.
Clinical and educational implications (preview)
Understanding the mixed evidence helps clinicians and educators provide neutral, nonjudgmental information. Distinguishing between normal variation and urinary incontinence is important because the latter may warrant medical evaluation. In Part 2, we will cover practical topics: how to talk with partners about ejaculation, consent and comfort, hygiene considerations, and an overview of techniques reported in the literature and anecdotal sources—presented carefully and respectfully. We will also review safety and when to seek medical advice.
If you'd like me to continue with Part 2 now, please reply "continue."
