Whether it’s a vibrator in your drawer or a butt plug tucked away, many of us have experimented with sex toys. In fact, nearly half of Brits own between seven and nine sex toys. But for 20 million women, there’s another household item frequently used to reach orgasm: the shower head.
What Is Streaming?
Sex education site OMGYES has dubbed this masturbation technique 'streaming,' where women use water pressure on their vulva for sexual pleasure. A tap can also work if you can maneuver into position. According to sex expert Gigi Engle, the shower is a 'Jack of all trades' for self-pleasure.
Getting to Grips With Streaming
Simply put, streaming involves using water pressure on your clitoris to masturbate while showering or bathing. 'It’s a discreet way to masturbate because showers are private by nature,' Gigi explains. 'You have an opportunity to connect with your body and relax enough to have an orgasm.'
The private setting minimizes worry of interruption, and various techniques allow for a personalized experience. 'Showers can be very sensual. Start by warming up your body with the shower head, then circle the clitoris, and place the water on your vulva,' she adds. 'Variations in water pressure add different sensations, just like vibrators have different patterns and intensities.'
Techniques for Streaming
One technique called 'The Run Down' involves placing water pressure on the clitoral hood so the entire vulva gets a cascade of water, avoiding direct clitoral stimulation—ideal for sensitive women. Others apply water directly onto the clitoris for intense sensation, while some prefer indirect splashes by focusing the stream to the side.
Who Practices Streaming?
Gigi notes that many women first attempt self-pleasure with a shower head because the bathroom offers more privacy than a bedroom when living with parents. However, adults also continue this practice. 'People still do it in adulthood but less so because they have their own space and can buy sex toys,' she says. 'But if shower heads have been their primary method, they may be habituated to it, making it a reliable way to orgasm.'
The Don’ts of Streaming
While streaming seems simple, there are safety concerns. 'It’s only safe for external clitoral stimulation. Shooting water up your vagina can wipe out good flora and cause UTIs, yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis,' Gigi warns. Also, avoid temperature play with scalding water. 'Normal warm water is fine; cold water may be painful for some.' Lastly, never use public pools or hot tub jets for streaming—it’s unhygienic and disrespectful.
