The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, 21, 691–699

https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae065
Advance access publication date 20 June 2024
Original Research

Experiences of young women in the practice of squirting: a

descriptive qualitative study
Selene Cutillas-Blasco, MSc1 , Cristofer Ruiz-Gonzalez, MSc2 ,3 ,
Lola Rueda-Ruzafa, PhD1 ,3 ,* , Carmen Ropero-Padilla, PhD1 ,3 ,4 , Pablo Roman, PhD1 ,3 ,5 ,
Miguel Rodriguez-Arrastia, PhD1 ,3 ,4
1 Department of Nursing Science, Physiotherapy and Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Almería, Carr. Sacramento, s/n,
04120, La Cañada, Almería, Spain

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2 Torrecardenas University Hospital, 04120 Almería, Spain
3 Research Group CTS-1114 Advances and Innovation in Health, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain
4 Research Group Science Flows, Universitat de València, Av. de Blasco Ibáñez, 13, El Pla del Real, 46010 Valencia, Spain
5 Health Research Center CEINSA, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain

*Corresponding author: Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Carretera Sacramento S/N,
04120, Almería, Spain. Email: [email protected]

Abstract
Background: While female ejaculation is viewed as a potential enhancer of women’s sexual experiences and their relationships with their sexual
partners, existing studies to date emphasize the need for further exploration of the squirting phenomenon.
Aim: The study sought to explore experiences and perceptions about the phenomenon of squirting in young adult women.
Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted between December 2022 and
March 2023. Seventeen young adult women who experienced squirting were recruited using a convenience and snowball sampling. ATLAS.ti v.9
software was used for a thematic analysis of the interview data. The study adhered to the recommendations for reporting qualitative research
(Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research).
Outcomes: The outcomes included (1) exploring factors influencing initial squirting experiences, (2) insights gained through squirting
experiences, (3) communication as the cornerstone in sexual relationships, and (4) resources and sources for knowledge on the squirting
phenomenon.
Results: After the analysis of the results, the following subthemes emerged: (1) first perceptions on squirting, (2) facilitating factors, (3)
physical sensations and psychological aspects in squirting experience, (4) sources of information about squirting and (5) addressing squirting in
comprehensive sex education.
Clinical Implications: Frontline healthcare providers should undergo specific training to address anxiety related to squirting among certain
individuals and enhance societal awareness while offering emotional support for diverse sexual response variations.
Strengths and Limitations: Acknowledging limitations in our study of young women’s experiences with squirting, a more diverse sample could
provide alternative insights. Despite this, our findings contribute valuable knowledge, suggesting avenues for professional training to promote
sexual and reproductive health in a more realistic and sensitive manner.
Conclusion: This study explored the emotional and psychological effects of squirting on women’s sexual experiences, ranging from heightened
arousal to feelings of humiliation and embarrassment. It emphasized the importance of a partner’s reaction in interpreting the event and the
limited understanding of squirting, often influenced by pornography.
Keywords: qualitative research; sexuality; squirting; women.

Introduction orgasm.4 Despite being a phenomenon described for over

During sexual arousal and orgasm, women experience the 2000 years, the existing literature on this subject remains
expulsion of various fluids. Although there is still some con- rather limited.5,6 Until 2011, no clear distinction was made
troversy and no clear consensus regarding the distinct com- between them, and they were collectively referred to as female
ponents and the classification of the different fluids emitted ejaculation.7 As for female ejaculation, its expulsion has been
during sexual activity,1 its composition bears resemblance described as a strong sensation of release, wetness, and overall
to that of urine, containing varying concentrations of urea, well-being, with a prevalence ranging from approximately
creatinine, and uric.2 These fluids vary in terms of volume, 10% to 54% in the female population.8
nature, and composition, depending on the anatomical and Among the various fluids expelled, many women report the
physiological structures involved.2,3 In this vein, there has release of a copious fluid through the urethra, a phenomenon
been considerable debate surrounding the concept of ejacu- commonly referred to as squirting.9 Squirting is defined as
lation orgasm, particularly concerning the existence of female the natural and involuntary expulsion of transurethral liquid
ejaculation; for instance, renowned sex researchers dismissed originating from the urinary bladder before, during, or after
the idea of female ejaculation in the early 1990s, stating that, orgasm.5 The volume of this translucent liquid expelled can
contrary to common belief, women do not ejaculate during range from tens to hundreds of milliliters (15-110 mL).10
Received: January 24, 2024. Revised: May 9, 2024. Accepted: May 14, 2024
© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The International Society of Sexual Medicine.
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (https://creativecommons.org/lice
nses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits non-commercial re-use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. For
commercial re-use, please contact [email protected]
692 The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8

Previous studies estimated its prevalence to be approximately Table 1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the participants.
5%; nevertheless, these data remain questionable, as no exten- Characteristic n %
sive studies have been conducted to substantiate this figure.11
Likewise, its origin and nature remain uncertain, with sig- Age
22 y 3 17.65
nificant controversy surrounding the anatomical structures
23 y 5 29.41
involved in the expulsion of this fluid.5 Recent studies suggest 24 y 3 17.65
its origin in the urinary bladder, implying it as involuntary 25 y 1 5.88
urine expulsion during sexual activity, albeit with the fluid 26 y 5 29.41
being contaminated by secretions from the Skene’s glands’ Assigned sex at birth
prostatic fluid.5,9,12 Female 17 100
While female ejaculation could be a potential enhancer of Gender identity
Cisgender 16 94.12
women’s sexual experiences and their relationships with their Nonbinary 1 5.88
sexual partners,13 the existing studies to date underscore the Sexual orientation
necessity for more in-depth research into the phenomenon of Heterosexual 8 47.06
squirting.2,5 The limited research on this subject creates some Homosexual 1 5.88

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uncertainty regarding its existence, associated symptoms, and Bisexual 8 47.06
the regularity with which it occurs,14 resulting in the general Race or ethnicity
White European 15 88.24
population obtaining biased information. This often portrays Latin American 2 11.76
squirting as a frequent manifestation of female sexual arousal
or orgasm,15 which may lead to significant frustration, par-
ticularly among young women, as sexual partners of women
experiencing squirting may develop unrealistic expectations,
anticipating them to conform to established sexual norms.7,16 conducted at the University of Almería (Andalusia, Spain)
In this sense, individuals at an age of emerging sexuality among the students of the Master’s program in Sexology
that may present distinctive particularities compared with Sciences, employing the accessibility and convenience of this
older, more sexually experienced individuals, such as unique location to identify prospective participants. Convenience
challenges in terms of sexual functioning, orgasm occurrence, sampling allowed for the swift identification and recruit-
inaccurate assumptions about partners’ sexual experiences, ment of individuals who met the stipulated criteria, thereby
among others.17 To our knowledge, moreover, few studies to expediting the data collection process. Subsequent to the
date have qualitatively explored the perspectives of women initial recruitment phase, snowball sampling techniques were
who experience squirting, particularly on young individu- employed to broaden the participant pool. Participants who
als.11,17 This research gap could be of great value to frontline met the study’s eligibility criteria were encouraged to refer
healthcare providers, including general nursing practitioners other eligible individuals within their social networks. This
or midwives, as well as other allied healthcare professionals, iterative process facilitated the inclusion of participants who
such as sexologists or psychologists, in order to provide may not have been directly accessible through traditional
tailored information, address identified needs, and promote recruitment methods. Table 1 depicts sociodemographic char-
a healthy and responsible sexuality. acteristics of the study sample.

Data collection
Methods Qualitative research offers rich and compelling insights into
Aim the real worlds, experiences, and perspectives of patients and
The purpose of this study was to explore experiences and healthcare professionals.19 For this purpose, a semi-structured
perceptions about the phenomenon of squirting in young interview protocol was developed based on a review of the
adult women. scientific literature, encompassing the most relevant topics of
interest for investigation (see Supplementary Table S1). Inter-
Design views were conducted with individuals who met the inclusion
The present study used a qualitative descriptive design with criteria and provided duly completed informed consent forms.
the aim of providing a first depiction of the squirting phe- The principal investigator contacted and conducted a total
nomenon through the different experiences and perceptions of 17 interviews. Each interview, lasting between 30 and
of young women who encounter it during their sexual prac- 40 minutes, was digitally recorded, and data confidentiality
tices.18 The study was conducted from December 2022 to was strictly maintained. To ensure the anonymity of the par-
June 2023. ticipants in the transcription of the interviews, the letter “P”
(participants) was employed, along with the participant num-
Participants ber. Participants were given the opportunity to review tran-
Eligible participants were recruited using a convenience and scriptions from the audio recordings before commencing data
snowball sampling. This approach was chosen to facilitate the analysis. The data collection process employed an approach
inclusion of individuals who met the specific criteria of inter- informed by the concept of information power, prioritizing
est, while also leveraging existing networks to access a diverse the depth and richness of insights over the notion of reaching
range of potential participants. Participation in the study a predetermined point of saturation.20 Furthermore, the data
was entirely voluntary, and the selection criteria included (1) were collected between December and March of 2023.
women, (2) women who experienced squirting at least once,
(3) women who were between 18 and 30 years of age, and (4) Data analysis
women who completed and submitted the informed consent An inductive thematic analysis of the data was conducted
form before participating in the study. Initial recruitment was using ATLAS.ti 9 software (ATLAS.ti Scientific Software
The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8 693

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Figure 1. Conceptual map based on young women’s experiences of squirting.

Development), following the phases outlined by Braun and detailed description of the methodology and data collection
Clarke20 : (1) familiarization with the data, involving an process was provided, as well as direct quotes when presenting
initial reading of transcriptions and the creation of general the findings. The opinions of the participants were verified
sense notes; (2) systematic coding of the data, categorizing at the end of each interview to ensure accurate reflections.
transcriptions with meaningful codes; (3) theme generation, Conformability was achieved by having both of the first
grouping codes from the previous phase into potential themes authors (S. C-B. and C. R-P.) independently analyze transcripts
representing shared meanings; (4) theme development and before meeting together to compare, correlate, and discuss the
review to ensure consistency among codes grouped under emerging themes. In case of any discrepancy, a third researcher
themes; (5) refining the analysis, fine tuning theme definitions (M. R-A.) was consulted to ensure reliability and congruence
and names; and (6) report writing. The inductive approach in the collected data. All researchers agreed with the results.
is effective for exploring unknown terrain, and although a
preconceived conceptual framework was not imposed on
the data, some deductive reasoning was incorporated into Results
the analysis to guarantee the relevance of the generated
Characteristics of the participants
themes with the aim of the study.21 Representative or
illustrative quotes were selected, and the analysis was A total of 17 interviews were conducted. Of the participants,
ultimately related to the research question. Data analysis 94.12% (n = 16) identified as cisgender women and 5.88%
was based on semantic coding.22 A conceptual map was (n = 1) identified as nonbinary. Regarding sexual orientation,
developed, encompassing the 4 main themes that represent 47.06% (n = 8) of the participants identified as heterosexual,
the experiences of young women in squirting experience 47.06% (n = 8) as bisexual, and 5.88% (n = 1) as homosexual.
(Figure 1). The average age was 24 ± 2 years, ranging from 22 to
26 years. In relation to ethnicity, 88.23% (n = 15) of the
interviewees identified as White European and 11.77% (n = 2)
Ethical considerations identified as Latino American. From the data analysis, 4
The study was conducted following the ethical principles of main themes emerged representing the squirting experiences
the Declaration of Helsinki, and the research proposal was of young women (Table 2).
submitted for approval to the Ethics Committee of the Depart-
ment of Nursing, Physiotherapy, and Medicine at the Uni- Theme 1. Exploring factors influencing initial
versity of Almeria on December 22, 2022 (EFM 228/2022). squirting experiences
Voluntary participation was always ensured, with complete This theme focuses on the participants’ experiences in their
freedom to respond or decline any questions and the option first encounter with squirting, considering the influence of
to withdraw from the study at any point. Anonymity and various factors. These factors include different emotions and
confidentiality were rigorously maintained throughout data physical sensations elicited, the information or prior knowl-
collection and analysis. Prior to participating, all individuals edge about the phenomenon, and the precipitating factors
provided informed consent, granting exclusive access to the considered by the participants that led to squirting.
main researchers.

Subtheme 1.1. First perceptions on squirting

Rigor One common aspect mentioned by participants was having
The methodology and results of the study were conducted no prior knowledge of this sexual practice, which led to feel-
based on the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.23 ings of fear, shame, and uncertainty. Additionally, several of
Trustworthiness of the study was maintained by adhering to them noted that even though they had some prior knowledge
the Lincoln and Guba criteria.24 To ensure transferability, a acquired through pornography, they did not associate their
694 The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8

Table 2. Themes, subthemes, and representative quotes.

Theme Subtheme Representative quotes

Exploring factors First perceptions on “When it happened [the squirting] I felt embarrassed and afraid of my partner’s
influencing initial squirting reaction and because I had no idea what it was or what to do. My partner didn’t
squirting experiences know what it was either, but calmed me by saying that we’d look up information
to find out.” (P8)
“I was really surprised and a bit confused because I didn’t expect that I could do
that. I had no idea that I could release such a large amount of liquid. I was
surprised, but it was a good experience, something positive, something novel. And
the other person felt the same.” (P10)
Facilitating factors “I have experienced [squirting] with different partners, and I believe that when
I’m calm, without the pressure of ‘come on, I’m going to achieve it’, I like it much
more and I’m more likely to succeed. When I approach it with the idea of ‘I’m
going to accomplish it with this person’, it becomes extremely challenging, and I
don’t succeed.” (P9)

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Insights gained through Physical sensations and “In my case, when I squirt, I reach a peak of excitement, and I feel a tingling
squirting experiences psychological aspects in sensation in my legs, like the urge to urinate, and then it happens. Once I’ve done
squirting experience it, I feel very calm and relaxed.” (P14)
Partner’s reactions and “The three people with whom it has happened to me [squirting], they liked it. In
societal-related expectations fact, since they know that, it’s like they seek it because they enjoy it” (P2)
“My main concern is putting the other person first while pushing myself to squirt
more frequently. That frustrates me because I’m constantly thinking about the
other person instead of me, wondering if they are having fun.” (P2)
Communication as the cornerstone in sexual relationships “[ . . . ] I have a good sexual self-esteem because I feel desired and listened. We
have a great communication, which improves our sexual relationships and keeps
our sexual life healthy.” (P7)
Resources and sources Sources of information “As of today, I’m still not sure what squirting is. I have seen it in porn, Instagram
for knowledge on the about squirting and other websites, but they don’t explain you what it is, where it comes from, or
squirting phenomenon how to understand it.” (P13)
“I believe that pornography affects very negatively because men consider that
women must do it and they turn it into their purpose. In porn, it seems that
squirting is associated with orgasm and pleasure, when the reality is not like that.”
(P17)
Addressing squirting in “I believe that the information society has about squirting is limited because all
comprehensive sex sexual conversations remain a taboo, but it could improve with better sex
education education and better trained professionals. It would be great if they focused more
on women and their sexual experiences.” (P11)
“Receiving information from a formal source such as well-trained nurses or others
allied professionals would help to improve the information society has about
squirting and reality far beyond porn.” (P1)

experiences with squirting, mainly due to its unrepresentative practices, including the use of sex toys, external manual stim-
and unrealistic portrayal in such media. ulation of the clitoris, or performing fellatio on their sexual
partner, among other practices.
The first time it happened and I saw that amount of fluids
I scared myself because I didn’t know what was going on, I believe that squirting is 95% psychological because I can’t
but it was even worse due to my partner’s reaction; he was do it with someone I don’t trust. I need to feel accepted by
surprised, then I was ashamed of it because I didn’t know the other. (P9)
what he was thinking about it. (P5)

Normally, it happens with manual stimulation, either by

I had previously ejaculated in a different manner, but myself or someone else inserting their fingers, but it has also
because I tied squirting with pornography, where it’s occurred during masturbation, even while receiving spanks
depicted as a forcibly exaggerated jet... Mine didn’t look or performing fellatio; in other words, it doesn’t necessarily
anything like that. I didn’t consider it could be squirting require vaginal stimulation. (P5)
until later, when I was discussing with friends and we
learned we’d had similar experiences. (P3)

Theme 2. Insights gained through squirting

Subtheme 1.2. Facilitating factors experiences
In this vein, some participants reported the need for a comfort- This second theme encompasses the participants’ perceptions
able, relaxed, and trusting environment to experience squirt- about squirting experience, focusing on its impact on the
ing during intercourse, emphasizing the importance of not women’s sexual life, as well as the knowledge and under-
feeling pressured in the process. Furthermore, they confirmed standing acquired about this phenomenon through their expe-
achieving squirting in a wide variety of sexual positions and riences. In this manner, participants described some of the
The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8 695

hurdles they faced due to social stereotypes and expectations the perceptions we all hold about our bodies and squirting
about female sexuality. cause significant harm. (P16)

Subtheme 2.1. Physical sensations and psychological aspects

in squirting experience Theme 3. Communication as the cornerstone in
Some participants emphasized the positive impact on their sexual relationships
sexuality, considering squirting as an experience that brings This third theme highlights the importance of effective com-
diversity to their sexual relationships. Moreover, they men- munication with partners as a crucial factor in fostering posi-
tioned experiencing a high level of arousal that gradually tive and satisfying squirting experiences and sexual relations.
increased until reaching a heightened sense of pleasure, calm- They stressed the importance of explicit communication in
ness, relaxation, and release during squirting. enhancing their sexual relationships and self-esteem, as it
enables a more profound connection with their sexual part-
What you basically feel at that moment is that your bladder ners and themselves.
starts to swell, and you feel pressure that makes you want
My sexual self-esteem is improving with each passing day.

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to expel it. Usually, it comes suddenly while I’m having a
lot of pleasure, and I expel it; and then I feel really at ease I feel better with each new experience, and I’m currently
and calm. It’s like absolute relaxation. (P10) feeling fantastic sexually. I’m getting to know myself better,
as well as understanding and communicating what I enjoy
and dislike. (P7)
Right now, if I have gotten the hang of it, I also enjoy it; it’s
easier for me to relax, and I contract that area less, making
it happen more easily. However, I don’t have complete I think I have a good self-esteem because I communicate
control. It’s like, in certain positions, I’ve learned to relax what I feel, which I believe I have the right to do so. In the
and make it happen, but I can’t choose when it happens. end, I believe communication is a key part to have healthy
(P6) sexual encounters and avoid silly misunderstandings that
my hurt our self-esteem. (P1)

Subtheme 2.2. Partner’s reactions and societal-related

expectations
Conversely, some participants stated receiving reactions of Theme 4. Sources and resources for knowledge on
surprise, pleasure, and excitement from their sexual partners, the squirting phenomenon
seeing squirting as an achievement or goal to reach in their This final theme gathers the different sources and resources of
sexual encounters. information that participants turn to in search of knowledge
about the squirting phenomenon, exploring both informal and
[ . . . ] It depends on whether it’s a man or a woman. In formal sources.
many cases, there’s usually a sense of fascination, as if
they achieved something noteworthy. It tends to arouse the Subtheme 4.1. Sources of information about squirting
other person. In general, the reactions have been of surprise, The majority of participants admitted not having a reliable
pleasure, or even actively seeking it once they know I can source of information, although they mentioned obtaining
do it. (P5) their current knowledge through the internet, mainly using
search engines or social media, or through pornography con-
tent. Moreover, some of them indicated seeking information
My current partner loves it; he finds it super pleasurable
from friends or sharing their own experiences in the process.
because for him, there’s triple the lubrication, making those
areas moister. I also think it excites them to see a person
ejaculating in that way. (P6) I usually get [the information] from the Internet or talking
to a friend who has also experienced [squirting], but I
reckon I don’t have much information, and I don’t know
In contrast, several participants expressed a wide range
where to look for it. In the end, it is a topic that I believe
of challenges and frustrations related to their body image
everyone lacks sufficient information and education about.
and squirting, the level of desire associated with feminine
(P16)
stereotypes, and the portrayal of female roles in pornography,
among others.
As mentioned previously, the participants argued that pornog-
raphy, further as a source of information, may have important
One of my sexual relationship frustrations is that I wish
implications on squirting experiences and sexual encounters.
I could be more selfish in sex because, in the end, I
On one hand, it may benefit the visibility and normalization
adapt more than he does. However, as women, we have
of this phenomenon. Yet, they likewise indicated not feeling
been socialized to prioritize pleasing others; and surely
represented by such content, creating false expectations in the
pornography has something to do with it, especially all
collective imagination and potentially leading to frustration.
related to squirting. (P12)

I view squirting in pornography positively because it is

I have felt very frustrated and sometimes guilty for not at least brought to light, acknowledged, and visible. In a
having a socially established sexual desire that is lower negative sense, it is greatly exaggerated, and males believe
than those of men. In this sense, I feel the stereotypes and that women should squirt to enjoy pleasure. I believe that
696 The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8

what is depicted in pornography is not the norm; they phenomenon and the limited initiative to explore personal
describe it as something that must occur, and if it does not, sexual expression beyond conventional norms, such as
it is not acceptable. (P7) challenging traditional ideas of masculinity and femininity
in relationships or exploring open communication dur-
ing intimacy, among others.11,16,26 Enhancing the basic
[...] My concern is that I don’t have a verified and reliable anatomical and physiological knowledge of our reproductive
source, and I don’t know any healthcare professional who system, understanding physiological phenomena associated
may be specialized on this topic. I don’t have any substan- with sexual practices, exploring the potential emotional
tial information, and whatever I have is from social media. experiences that can be achieved, and also preparing for
(P9) squirting by using waterproof pads or blankets before
intimacy, for instance, can help prevent feelings of shame and
enhance the overall sexual experience and perception.9,27
Subtheme 4.2. Addressing squirting in comprehensive sex Besides its capacity to generate exceptional and novel feel-
education ings and experiences, squirting has been identified as a poten-
tial influence on women’s sexuality. Thus, a significant num-

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Concerning this, the participants highlighted not having
received any help from healthcare professionals regarding ber of participants reported a quantitative and qualitative
squirting phenomenon, considering their inner circle of improvement in the pleasure experienced during their sexual
friends and partners as the safest spaces for engaging in such encounters, and an increase in the diversity of their practices,
conversations. In this regard, women considered that squirting defining squirting as a phenomenon of openness to their
should be addressed as part of comprehensive sex education sexuality from their sexual experiences.13 It seems impor-
in public educational centers with trained professionals, tant to mention the role of squirting in other cultures such
thereby achieving a broader understanding of healthier sexual as non-Western cultural settings like Africa, where research
lifestyles. conducted in contexts such as Rwanda, Kenya, and Ghana,
highlights the significance of squirting in enhancing female
[ . . . ] Whether we like it or not, sex is still a taboo, especially pleasure and sexual practices. For instance, recent research
when it comes to female sexuality. Among my circle of on Kenyan technique known as “Kunyaza” or “making Lake
friends, I would say that I don’t have problems to talk Victoria” has proven positive results to stimulate periorgasmic
about squirting, but it is something that I have never fluid production,28 and has shown how squirting could be
discussed in other groups, such as relatives or workmates. one of many sex-positive cultural features in a society.29,30
That’s why I believe comprehensive sex education is essen- Nonetheless, the societal context and expectations placed
tial, but it should be delivered by professionals who are upon this sexual experience significantly influence the indi-
trained in this field. Often, nurses or physicians provide vidual characteristics of each sexual encounter. This external
sex education talks without proper training; and I think emphasis has repercussions on women’s psychological well-
it is necessary to be conducted by experts who know what being, frequently resulting in frustration as it is associated
to talk about and how to approach the subject. (P17) with obtaining orgasm and is viewed as an end in itself.31
These findings support the idea that having high expectations
and focusing on obtaining female pleasure and orgasm might
lead to anticipatory anxiety and performance pressure, neg-
Discussion atively influencing women’s sexual experiences.32,33 How-
The aim of this study was to explore experiences and per- ever, various studies have found contradicting results on the
ceptions about the phenomenon of squirting in young adult effects of anxiety on women’s sexual relations, with positive
women. According to the research findings, the first expe- or negative impacts depending on the severity or individual
riences with squirting were strongly influenced by a lack characteristics of the person, among other factors, indicating
of prior knowledge of this phenomenon, with a number the need for additional research into different types of stress
of triggering factors facilitating its occurrence and foremost and their impact on female sexuality.34-36
leading to feelings of fear and uncertainty. Previous research The impact of squirting on women’s sexuality is accompa-
has attempted to elucidate the mechanism of squirting and to nied by changes in sexual self-esteem and a new perception of
detail sexual and orgasmic function in women.5,14 However, body image. Consistent with prior studies, one of the most
this study provides evidence that contributes to the under- significant reinforcing factors in our findings was the sex-
standing not only of the impact of squirting on women’s ual partners’ response and communication, mostly involving
sexuality and self-esteem, but also of the perspectives from understanding, normalization, and empathy.11 Surprisingly,
their sexual partners as well as the impact of other societal many partners had more knowledge about squirting than the
expectations as perceived by the participants. In line with women experiencing it, often due to consuming pornogra-
earlier studies on female orgasm,17,25 our findings further phy.37 The consumption of pornography has been associated
bring new information to the current demand for formal with a direct impact on women’s and their sexual partners’
resources on the squirting phenomenon, as well as for the sexuality.38,39 Women, in particular, are more affected by the
specific training needs for professionals who may assist in social rules and stereotypes portrayed in the pornographic
promoting a healthier sexual life. industry.40 In this regard, our participants confirmed how
Regarding the first experiences with squirting, a significant pornography acquires a multidimensional character, as despite
number of participants reported feelings of pleasure, calmness, being a medium that makes visible and normalizes the exis-
and relaxation, and also fear, shame, and discomfort. A tence and performance of squirting, it distorts the reality of
possible explanation for these negative emotions could this phenomenon by depicting it as an unrealistic, magnified,
be related to the lack of awareness surrounding this and exaggerated sexual practice.11,37
The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8 697

These findings provide relevant information for compre- study provide a valuable knowledge base to continue work-
hensive sex education programs, including instruction on ing in other areas, such as providing specific training for
pornography from an early age. Because a major concern professionals who provide care to these women or develop-
regarding youth exposure to pornography revolves around ing reliable and accessible information systems. Additionally,
its potential to produce unrealistic sexual expectations, the conducting further research using a mixed-methods approach
findings from this study could aid in developing porn liter- would allow for exploring both the experiences and knowl-
acy skills that enable individuals to develop realistic porn- edge of women, men, and other stakeholders involved in
congruent sexual health beliefs and anticipate realistic sex- this phenomenon, from an intersectional perspective that
ual outcomes in their lives.41-45 Still, the information about considers the necessary care, with the purpose of increasing
squirting from healthcare and public education services has knowledge and promoting the visibility of this experience.
been and continues to be scarce, highlighting the lack of
knowledge and comprehensive sex education approach for
professionals in this area, as well as the absence of a compre-
hensive approach to human sexuality that sheds light on these Conclusion
matters.46 This can be explained by the fact that sexuality- This study offers an insight for understanding the experiences

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related training for healthcare professionals, such as nurses or of squirting in young adult women, showing the emotional
physicians and other allied professionals, is often conceived and psychological implications in their sexual lives and the
from a reductionist and biologically focused perspective.47 value that specific related training may have for frontline
As a result, public health promotion plans related to sexual healthcare professionals, such as nurses or midwives, and
health often lack an integrative vision, ignoring the social and other allied healthcare professionals, such as sexologists, to
cultural factors, which are crucial for a broader understand- ensure a comprehensive sexual education and promote pos-
ing of human sexuality.48 Consequently, adopting a holis- itive women’s self-esteem and body image. Aside the posi-
tic view of the population’s sexuality in training programs tive impacts perceived from squirting, our results highlight
for healthcare professionals would enable offering a formal the need to address the negative emotions evoked because
source for knowledge and a variety of resources to sup- of unrealistic and misleading expectations and stereotypes
port sexualities based on respect, understanding, and equal- from this phenomenon, such as fear, shame, or discomfort.
ity, as well as promoting individual sexual and reproductive In this manner, whereas existing studies do not often differ-
health.49 entiate between female ejaculation and squirting, evidence-
While the origin and benefits of female ejaculation in based education programs can provide an opportunity for
women’s sexuality have been previously addressed,13,31 the healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to increase
scientific literature on squirting remains limited, giving rise to societal knowledge about squirting and to promote sexual and
controversial results regarding the origin and composition reproductive health in a more realistic and sensitive manner.
of the fluid.8 It is important to highlight that existing Ultimately, this may help women understand their bodies
studies do not often differentiate between female ejaculation and sexuality more deeply, leading to more fulfilling sexual
and squirting, considering them as the same phenomenon experiences.
on many occasions or even diagnosing squirting as coital
incontinence.2,7,9 To the best of our knowledge, this study
represents one of the first attempts to explore the experi-
ences and perceptions of women who experience squirting Author contributions
from a qualitative approach, providing valuable insights Conceptualization: M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Data curation: S.C.-B., C.R.-G.;
into the implications and benefits that this phenomenon Formal analysis: S.C.-B., M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Funding acquisition: P.R.,
has on women’s sexuality. Furthermore, the study aligns M.R.-A.; Investigation: S.C.-B., C.R.-G., L.R.-R., C.R.-P., P.R., M.R.-
with a broader, interdisciplinary approach to examining A.; Methodology: S.C.-B., M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Project administration:
P.R., M.R.-A.; Resources: P.R., M.R.-A.; Software: C.R.-G., L.R.-R.;
women’s sexual experiences through a positive sexuality
Supervision: M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Validation: M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Visualiza-
lens perspective that aims to validate the different ways in
tion: C.R.-G., M.R.-A., C.R.-P.; Roles/Writing – original draft: S.C.-B.;
which individuals express and experience their sexuality.50,51 and Writing – review & editing: M.R.-A., C.R.-P.
The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of this
phenomenon and offer valuable information for future
research and education in the field of female sexuality
and sexual health. As the scientific knowledge on squirting Supplementary material
continues to evolve, it is crucial to consider the diverse Supplementary material is available at The Journal of Sexual Medicine
experiences and perspectives of individuals involved to online.
promote a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding
of female sexual experiences.

Funding
Limitations This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies
Overall, there are limitations to bear in mind when interpret- in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
ing our results. The study sample consisted only of young
women with some experiences with the phenomenon under
study. A more heterogeneous sample, including women of
different ages and men who participate in squirting, could Conflicts of interest
provide a different perspective. However, the results of this No conflict of interest has been declared by the authors.
698 The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2024, Vol 21, Issue 8

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