Broadening: The Self-Pleasure Technique Most Women Use But Rarely Talk About
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Broadening: The Secret Many Women Keep
When it comes to women's pleasure, there are still countless myths, assumptions, and conversations that never happen.
One of those conversations is about broadening—a self-pleasure technique that many women have naturally discovered, yet very few openly discuss.
Research conducted by OMGYES in partnership with the Kinsey Institute found that 87% of women have used a technique called broadening, while 80% said they rarely talk about it because they're worried about being judged.
That statistic alone tells us something important.
The silence surrounding sexual wellness often creates unnecessary shame around experiences that are actually incredibly common.
What Is Broadening?
Broadening is a technique that involves stimulating a larger area of the vulva instead of focusing on one specific spot.
Rather than concentrating stimulation on a single point, broadening spreads touch across a wider area, engaging more of the underlying clitoral network.
Many women describe this style of stimulation as:
- Slower-building
- More diffuse sensations
- Less intense or overwhelming
- More comfortable after orgasm
Of course, every body is different. These experiences aren't universal, and there is no "correct" way to experience pleasure.
There Is No "Normal" Way to Experience Pleasure
One of the most valuable lessons from this research isn't that everyone should try broadening.
It's that there is no single normal way to experience pleasure.
Bodies respond differently.
What feels pleasurable, comfortable, exciting, or relaxing varies from person to person—and that's completely normal.
Understanding your own body isn't something to be embarrassed about. It's part of healthy sexual wellbeing.
Most Women Discover It Naturally
Another fascinating finding from the research was that 75% of women first discovered broadening before they ever had partnered intimacy.
Many participants didn't even know the technique had a name.
That reminds us that curiosity is a natural part of learning about our bodies.
Healthy self-discovery often happens long before formal education catches up.
Why Evidence-Based Sexual Education Matters
Many people grow up with very limited education about anatomy, arousal, and sexual response.
When common experiences remain hidden or stigmatized, it's easy to believe something is "wrong" simply because nobody talks about it.
Evidence-based sexual education helps replace:
- Shame with knowledge
- Myths with science
- Fear with confidence
- Judgment with informed choices
The more we understand our bodies, the easier it becomes to communicate with partners, advocate for our needs, and build healthier intimate relationships.
Exploring What Works for You
There isn't one technique that's best for everyone.
Some people enjoy focused stimulation.
Others prefer broader, gentler touch.
Many enjoy different types depending on the day, their stress level, hormonal changes, or where they are in life.
The goal isn't to fit into someone else's definition of pleasure.
The goal is to understand your body and what feels authentic, comfortable, and enjoyable for you.
Products That Can Support Exploration
If you're curious about exploring different types of stimulation, the right products can make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Some options that pair well with broadening include:
- Water-based lubricants for smoother, more comfortable touch
- Massage oils to encourage slower, more mindful exploration
- External stimulation toys designed for a variety of sensations instead of pinpoint intensity
- Air pulse or suction toys for those who enjoy different styles of clitoral stimulation
Remember, products aren't about "fixing" your body—they're simply tools that can help you discover what feels best for you.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway isn't that broadening is better than other techniques.
It's that there is no one right way to experience pleasure.
Our bodies are wonderfully diverse, and so are our preferences.
By replacing silence with education and curiosity, we create space for healthier conversations, greater confidence, and more fulfilling intimate experiences.
Because sexual wellness isn't about perfection.
It's about understanding yourself.
Sources
- Herbenick, D., Fu, T. C., Arter, J., et al. (2018). Women's Experiences with Genital Touching, Sexual Pleasure, and Orgasm: Results from the OMGYES Pleasure Report. Kinsey Institute.
- OMGYES. Pleasure Report.