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Fingering is sexual stimulation of the vulva (including the clitoris) or vagina by using the fingers.^[1] Vaginal fingering is legally and medically called digital penetration or digital penetration of the vagina. The term "digital" takes its significance from the English word 'digit', which refers to a finger, thumb, or toe.^[2] Fingering may also include the use of fingers to stimulate the anus.^[3]

When someone performs fingering on another person's vulva or vagina, it is a form of manual sex, and is analogous to a handjob (manual stimulation of the penis).^[4]^[5] It may be used for sexual arousal or foreplay, constitute an entire sexual encounter,^[5] or be used as non-penetrative sexual activity.^[6]

Fingering performed on one's own vulva or vagina is a form of masturbation.

Practice

The main aspect of fingering, whether performed on oneself or performed on someone else, is manual stimulation of the vulva by rubbing with the fingers, insertion of the fingers into the vagina through its opening, or some combination.

Vulva

Parts of the vulva, especially the clitoris, are erogenous zones.^[7] Massage of the vulva, and in particular the clitoris, is the most common way for a woman to achieve an orgasm.^[8]^[9]^[10] Studies indicate that 70–80 percent of women require direct clitoral stimulation to achieve orgasm.^[10]^[11]

The clitoral glans or shaft may be massaged by one or more fingers, usually through the skin of the clitoral hood, using up-and-down, side-to-side, or circular motions.^[12] The rest of the vulva such as the labia are also stimulated by fingering.^[12] The fingers may caress the labia minora (the vulva's inner lips)^[13] via up-and-down/side-to-side movements as well or tug on the folds.

Vagina

While the vagina is not especially sensitive as a whole, its lower third (the area close to the entrance) has concentrations of nerve endings that can provide pleasurable sensations when stimulated during sexual activity.^[8]^[9]^[14]

Fingering the vagina is often performed to stimulate an area termed the G-spot. The G-spot is reportedly located roughly five centimeters (2.0 inches) up on the anterior wall of the vagina, forwards toward the navel. It is described as being recognized by its ridges and slightly rougher texture compared to the more cushion-like vaginal cavity walls around it. Fingering this spot, and in effect possibly stimulating the Skene's gland, is commonly cited as a method that may lead to female ejaculation.^[15]

Some women have cited the "come hither" approach as a significant catalyst to orgasm. This technique involves the middle finger, sometimes additionally the index or ring finger, making a hand gesture like "come here" with the palm facing upwards towards her pubic bone. Medical professionals suggest washing the hands before contact with the vagina, to ensure proper hygiene, especially when moving between different orifices.^[16]

Anus

Anal fingering may be pleasurable because of the large number of nerve endings in the anal area, and because of the added stimulation gained from stretching the anal sphincter muscles while inserting the finger. A personal lubricant is advisable to both increase the pleasurable sensation and aid insertion.^[17] Some people prefer to simply stimulate the outer ring of the anus, while others will follow this by inserting one or more fingers into the rectum.^[17]

Fingering one's own anus is an act of anal masturbation while fingering the anus of another person is a type of manual and anal sex. Partnered anal fingering can arouse the receiver, either as an act in itself or allowing them to relax their anus and prepare them for the insertion of a penis or any other sexual instrument.

Anal fingering is an effective way of stimulating the prostate in males^[18]^[19]^[20] and can also stimulate the perineal sponge in women.

Safety and sexual assault

Consensual fingering is generally considered safe sex.^{[citation needed]}

How digital penetration without consent is legally classified depends on the jurisdiction. For example, penetration of the vagina or anus with a finger without consent is rape in Australia,^[21] and forcible rape in many United States jurisdictions.^[22] In Scotland, the term rape is only used for penetration with a penis,^[23] whereas penetration with a finger can be "sexual assault by penetration".^[24]

Lesbian women often clip their nails in a particular fashion to allow for digital penetration, leading to recognition of shorter nails on the index and middle finger as a public LGBT symbol.^[25]^[26]

References

^ Rathus SA, Nevid JS, Fichner-Rathus L (2005). Human sexuality in a world of diversity. Allyn & Bacon. p. 275. ISBN 0205406157. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
^ "Understanding the Concept of Digital Rape".
^ Winks C (1997). The New Good Vibrations Guide to Sex. Cleis Press. p. 132. ISBN 1573440698. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
^ Bruess CE, Schroeder E (2013). Sexuality Education Theory And Practice. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 151. ISBN 978-1449649289. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
^ ^a ^b Winks C (1997). The New Good Vibration Guide to Sex. Cleis Press. pp. 57, 60. ISBN 1573440698. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
^ Upton D (2014). Nursing & Health Survival Guide: Health Promotion. Routledge. p. 52. ISBN 978-1317906179. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.
^
O'Connell HE, Sanjeevan KV, Hutson JM (October 2005). "Anatomy of the clitoris". The Journal of Urology. 174 (4 Pt 1): 1189–95. doi:10.1097/01.ju.0000173639.38898.cd. PMID 16145367. S2CID 26109805.
- Mascall, Sharon (11 June 2006). "Time for rethink on the clitoris". BBC News. Archived from the original on 4 November 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2010.
^ ^a ^b Weiten, Wayne; Dunn, Dana S.; Yost Hammer, Elizabeth (2011). Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century. Cengage Learning. p. 386. ISBN 978-1-111-18663-0. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2012.
^ ^a ^b Marshall Cavendish Corporation (2009). Sex and Society, Volume 2. Marshall Cavendish Corporation. p. 590. ISBN 978-0761479079. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 17 August 2012.
^ ^a ^b Kammerer-Doak, Dorothy; Rogers, Rebecca G. (June 2008). "Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction". Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. 35 (2): 169–183. doi:10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006. PMID 18486835. Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes...
^ Mah, Kenneth; Binik, Yitzchak M (7 January 2001). "The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends". Clinical Psychology Review. 21 (6): 823–856. doi:10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6. PMID 11497209. Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse.
^ ^a ^b Carroll, Janell L. (2009). Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity. Cengage Learning. pp. 118, 252, and 264. ISBN 978-0-495-60274-3. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 23 June 2012.
^ Griffitt, William; Hatfield, Elaine (1985). Human Sexual Behavior. Scott, Foresman. p. 285. ISBN 978-0-67315-057-8. Retrieved 13 September 2023.
^ Greenberg JS, Bruess CE, Conklin SC (2010). Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 126. ISBN 978-9814516785. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 9 August 2019.
^ Rabinerson D, Horowitz E (February 2007). "[G-spot and female ejaculation: fiction or reality?]". Harefuah (in Hebrew). 146 (2): 145–7, 163. PMID 17352286.
^ "Pussy Fingering". Sex Project. Archived from the original on 26 June 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2010.
^ ^a ^b Pauli, Michelle (2021). Press Here! Kama Sutra for Beginners: A Couples Guide to Sexual Fulfilment. Fair Winds Press. pp. 48–49. ISBN 978-0-76037-047-6. Retrieved 16 September 2023.
^ "The male hot spot — Massaging the prostate". Go Ask Alice!. 27 September 2002. Archived from the original on 16 August 2015. Retrieved 21 April 2010.
^ Rosenthal, Martha (2012). Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society. Cengage Learning. pp. 133–135. ISBN 978-0618755714. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 17 September 2012.
^ Komisaruk, Barry R.; Whipple, Beverly; Nasserzadeh, Sara; Beyer-Flores, Carlos (2009). The Orgasm Answer Guide. JHU Press. pp. 108–109. ISBN 978-0-8018-9396-4. Retrieved 6 November 2011.
^ Henry, Nicola (27 March 2018). "Rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment: what's the difference?". The Conversation. Archived from the original on 16 September 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
^ "An Updated Definition of Rape". The United States Department of Justice Archives. 6 January 2012. Archived from the original on 3 December 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
^ "Facts about sexual violence". Rape Crisis Scotland. Archived from the original on 28 November 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
^ "Rape and sexual assault". Victim Support Scotland. Archived from the original on 27 February 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2020.
^ Wallace, Megan. "Lez nails: Is the 'queer woman with short nails' an outdated stereotype?", Dazed Beauty, 17 October 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.
^ Thompson, Martine. "Cheers to the Queer Manicure", Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.

[Rathus-1] Rathus SA, Nevid JS, Fichner-Rathus L (2005). Human sexuality in a world of diversity. Allyn & Bacon. p. 275. ISBN 0205406157. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.

[2] "Understanding the Concept of Digital Rape".

[Winks-3] Winks C (1997). The New Good Vibrations Guide to Sex. Cleis Press. p. 132. ISBN 1573440698. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.

[Bruess-4] Bruess CE, Schroeder E (2013). Sexuality Education Theory And Practice. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 151. ISBN 978-1449649289. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.

[Winks_2-5] Winks C (1997). The New Good Vibration Guide to Sex. Cleis Press. pp. 57, 60. ISBN 1573440698. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.

[Upton-6] Upton D (2014). Nursing & Health Survival Guide: Health Promotion. Routledge. p. 52. ISBN 978-1317906179. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 6 August 2019.

[O'Connell-7] O'Connell HE, Sanjeevan KV, Hutson JM (October 2005). "Anatomy of the clitoris". The Journal of Urology. 174 (4 Pt 1): 1189–95. doi:10.1097/01.ju.0000173639.38898.cd. PMID 16145367. S2CID 26109805.
Mascall, Sharon (11 June 2006). "Time for rethink on the clitoris". BBC News. Archived from the original on 4 November 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2010.

[8] Mascall, Sharon (11 June 2006). "Time for rethink on the clitoris". BBC News. Archived from the original on 4 November 2022. Retrieved 19 August 2010.

[Weiten-8] Weiten, Wayne; Dunn, Dana S.; Yost Hammer, Elizabeth (2011). Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century. Cengage Learning. p. 386. ISBN 978-1-111-18663-0. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 5 January 2012.

[Sex_and_Society-9] Marshall Cavendish Corporation (2009). Sex and Society, Volume 2. Marshall Cavendish Corporation. p. 590. ISBN 978-0761479079. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 17 August 2012.

[Kammerer-Doak-10] Kammerer-Doak, Dorothy; Rogers, Rebecca G. (June 2008). "Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction". Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. 35 (2): 169–183. doi:10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006. PMID 18486835. Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes...

[Kenneth_Mah-11] Mah, Kenneth; Binik, Yitzchak M (7 January 2001). "The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends". Clinical Psychology Review. 21 (6): 823–856. doi:10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6. PMID 11497209. Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse.

[Carroll-12] Carroll, Janell L. (2009). Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity. Cengage Learning. pp. 118, 252, and 264. ISBN 978-0-495-60274-3. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 23 June 2012.

[13] Griffitt, William; Hatfield, Elaine (1985). Human Sexual Behavior. Scott, Foresman. p. 285. ISBN 978-0-67315-057-8. Retrieved 13 September 2023.

[Greenberg2-14] Greenberg JS, Bruess CE, Conklin SC (2010). Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality. Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 126. ISBN 978-9814516785. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 9 August 2019.

[Rabinerson_&_Horowitz-15] Rabinerson D, Horowitz E (February 2007). "[G-spot and female ejaculation: fiction or reality?]". Harefuah (in Hebrew). 146 (2): 145–7, 163. PMID 17352286.

[16] "Pussy Fingering". Sex Project. Archived from the original on 26 June 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2010.

[“Pauli”-17] Pauli, Michelle (2021). Press Here! Kama Sutra for Beginners: A Couples Guide to Sexual Fulfilment. Fair Winds Press. pp. 48–49. ISBN 978-0-76037-047-6. Retrieved 16 September 2023.

[Prostate/Hot_spot-18] "The male hot spot — Massaging the prostate". Go Ask Alice!. 27 September 2002. Archived from the original on 16 August 2015. Retrieved 21 April 2010.

[Rosenthal-19] Rosenthal, Martha (2012). Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society. Cengage Learning. pp. 133–135. ISBN 978-0618755714. Archived from the original on 26 February 2023. Retrieved 17 September 2012.

[Answer-20] Komisaruk, Barry R.; Whipple, Beverly; Nasserzadeh, Sara; Beyer-Flores, Carlos (2009). The Orgasm Answer Guide. JHU Press. pp. 108–109. ISBN 978-0-8018-9396-4. Retrieved 6 November 2011.

[21] Henry, Nicola (27 March 2018). "Rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment: what's the difference?". The Conversation. Archived from the original on 16 September 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020.

[22] "An Updated Definition of Rape". The United States Department of Justice Archives. 6 January 2012. Archived from the original on 3 December 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2020.

[23] "Facts about sexual violence". Rape Crisis Scotland. Archived from the original on 28 November 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020.

[24] "Rape and sexual assault". Victim Support Scotland. Archived from the original on 27 February 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2020.

[Dazed-25] Wallace, Megan. "Lez nails: Is the 'queer woman with short nails' an outdated stereotype?", Dazed Beauty, 17 October 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.

[LA-26] Thompson, Martine. "Cheers to the Queer Manicure", Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
+{{Short description|Use of fingers to sexually stimulate}}
-{{Unreferenced|date=September 2006}}
+{{pp|small=yes}}
-{{otheruses|Fingering (disambiguation)}}
-{{redirect|Fingerbang|the South Park episode|Something You Can Do with Your Finger}}
+{{Redirect2|Knuckling|Fingerbang|the massage technique|Petrissage|the South Park episode|Something You Can Do With Your Finger}}
+{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2023}}
+'''Fingering''' is [[sexual stimulation]] of the [[vulva]] (including the [[clitoris]]) or [[vagina]] by using the [[finger]]s.<ref name="Rathus ">{{cite book |vauthors = Rathus SA, Nevid JS, Fichner-Rathus L |title = Human sexuality in a world of diversity |publisher = [[Allyn & Bacon]] |isbn = 0205406157 |year = 2005 |page = 275 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=HahZAAAAYAAJ |access-date = 6 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226052955/https://books.google.com/books?id=HahZAAAAYAAJ |url-status = live }}</ref> Vaginal fingering is legally and medically called '''digital penetration''' or '''digital penetration of the vagina'''. The term "digital" takes its significance from the English word 'digit', which refers to a finger, thumb, or toe.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thelawadvice.com/articles/understanding-the-concept-of-digital-rape | title=Understanding the Concept of Digital Rape }}</ref> Fingering may also include the use of fingers to stimulate the [[Human anus|anus]].<ref name="Winks">{{cite book |vauthors = Winks C |title = The New Good Vibrations Guide to Sex |publisher = [[Cleis Press]] |isbn = 1573440698 |year = 1997 |page = 132 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=XW5qAAAAMAAJ |access-date = 6 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226052956/https://books.google.com/books?id=XW5qAAAAMAAJ |url-status = live }}</ref>
-[[Image:C-et-S.jpg|thumb|250px|An illustration of fingering.]]
+[[File:Wiki-fingering.png|thumb|Illustration of a man fingering a woman]]
+When someone performs fingering on another person's vulva or vagina, it is a form of [[Non-penetrative sex#Manual sex|manual sex]], and is analogous to a [[handjob]] (manual stimulation of the [[human penis|penis]]).<ref name="Bruess">{{cite book |vauthors = Bruess CE, Schroeder E |title = Sexuality Education Theory And Practice |publisher = [[Jones & Bartlett Publishers]] |isbn = 978-1449649289 |year = 2013 |page = 151 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=WWFW6-kkAVoC&pg=PA151 |access-date = 6 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053000/https://books.google.com/books?id=WWFW6-kkAVoC&pg=PA151 |url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="Winks 2">{{cite book |vauthors = Winks C |title = The New Good Vibration Guide to Sex |publisher = [[Cleis Press]] |isbn = 1573440698 |year = 1997 |pages = 57, 60 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=XW5qAAAAMAAJ |access-date = 6 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226052956/https://books.google.com/books?id=XW5qAAAAMAAJ |url-status = live }}</ref> It may be used for [[sexual arousal]] or [[foreplay]], constitute an entire [[sexual encounter]],<ref name="Winks 2"/> or be used as [[Non-penetrative sex|non-penetrative]] sexual activity.<ref name="Upton">{{cite book |vauthors = Upton D |title = Nursing & Health Survival Guide: Health Promotion |publisher = [[Routledge]] |isbn = 978-1317906179 |year = 2014 |page = 52 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=VnvJAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA52 |access-date = 6 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226052958/https://books.google.com/books?id=VnvJAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA52 |url-status = live }}</ref>
+[[File:Woman masturbating.jpg|thumb|Illustration of a woman fingering her own vulva]]
+Fingering performed on one's own vulva or vagina is a form of [[masturbation]].
+== Practice==
-'''Fingering''' is the practice of using fingers to stimulate the [[clitoris]], [[vagina]] or [[anus]]. Along with manual stimulaton of the penis, it is the most common form of [[mutual masturbation]]. To "finger oneself" is to [[masturbation|masturbate]] in this manner.
+The main aspect of fingering, whether performed on oneself or performed on someone else, is manual stimulation of the vulva by rubbing with the fingers, insertion of the fingers into the vagina through its opening, or some combination.
-'''Digital penetration''' is penetration (for example [[sexual penetration]]), with one or more fingers.
-==Clitoral fingering==
+=== Vulva ===
-Massaging of the [[vulva]], and in particular the [[clitoris]] is the most common way for a woman to reach and enjoy [[orgasm]].{{Fact|date=November 2007}}
+Parts of the vulva, especially the [[clitoris]], are [[erogenous zone]]s.<ref name="O'Connell">{{cite journal |vauthors = O'Connell HE, Sanjeevan KV, Hutson JM |title = Anatomy of the clitoris |journal = The Journal of Urology |volume = 174 |issue = 4 Pt 1 |pages = 1189–95 |date = October 2005 |pmid = 16145367 |doi = 10.1097/01.ju.0000173639.38898.cd |s2cid = 26109805 }}
-==Vaginal fingering==
+* {{cite news |last1 = Mascall |first1 = Sharon |date = 11 June 2006 |title = Time for rethink on the clitoris |work = [[BBC News]] |url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/5013866.stm |access-date = 19 August 2010 |archive-date = 4 November 2022 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221104231647/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/5013866.stm |url-status = live }}</ref> Massage of the vulva, and in particular the clitoris, is the most common way for a woman to achieve an [[orgasm]].<ref name="Weiten">{{cite book |title = Psychology Applied to Modern Life: Adjustment in the 21st Century |isbn = 978-1-111-18663-0 |publisher = Cengage Learning |year = 2011 |page = 386 |access-date = 5 January 2012 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=CGu96TeAZo0C&pg=PT423 |first1 = Wayne |last1 = Weiten |first2 = Dana S. |last2 = Dunn |first3 = Elizabeth |last3 = Yost Hammer |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053001/https://books.google.com/books?id=CGu96TeAZo0C&pg=PT423 |url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="Sex and Society">{{cite book |title = Sex and Society, Volume 2 |isbn = 978-0761479079 |publisher = Marshall Cavendish Corporation |year = 2009 |page = 590 |access-date = 17 August 2012 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=YtsxeWE7VD0C&pg=PA590 |author = Marshall Cavendish Corporation |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053114/https://books.google.com/books?id=YtsxeWE7VD0C&pg=PA590 |url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="Kammerer-Doak">{{cite journal |first1 = Dorothy |last1 = Kammerer-Doak |first2 = Rebecca G. |last2 = Rogers |title = Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction |journal = Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America |volume = 35 |issue = 2 |pages = 169–183 |date = June 2008 |pmid = 18486835 |doi = 10.1016/j.ogc.2008.03.006 |quote = Most women report the inability to achieve orgasm with vaginal intercourse and require direct clitoral stimulation ... About 20% have coital climaxes... }}</ref> Studies indicate that 70{{ndash}}80 percent of women require direct clitoral stimulation to achieve orgasm.<ref name="Kammerer-Doak"/><ref name="Kenneth Mah">{{cite journal |first1 = Kenneth |last1 = Mah |first2 = Yitzchak M |last2 = Binik |title = The nature of human orgasm: a critical review of major trends |journal = [[Clinical Psychology Review]] |volume = 21 |issue = 6 |pages = 823–856 |date = 7 January 2001 |pmid = 11497209 |doi = 10.1016/S0272-7358(00)00069-6 |quote = Women rated clitoral stimulation as at least somewhat more important than vaginal stimulation in achieving orgasm; only about 20% indicated that they did not require additional clitoral stimulation during intercourse. }}</ref>
+The [[Clitoris#Glans|clitoral glans]] or [[Clitoris#Body|shaft]] may be massaged by one or more fingers, usually through the skin of the [[clitoral hood]], using up-and-down, side-to-side, or circular motions.<ref name="Carroll">{{cite book |title = Sexuality Now: Embracing Diversity |publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] |year = 2009 |pages = 118, 252, and 264 |access-date = 23 June 2012 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=5f8mQx7ULs4C&q=The+glans+clitoris&pg=PA118 |isbn = 978-0-495-60274-3 |first1 = Janell L. |last1 = Carroll |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053001/https://books.google.com/books?id=5f8mQx7ULs4C&q=The+glans+clitoris&pg=PA118 |url-status = live }}</ref> The rest of the vulva such as the [[labia]] are also stimulated by fingering.<ref name="Carroll" /> The fingers may caress the [[labia minora]] (the vulva's inner lips)<ref>{{cite book|last1=Griffitt |first1=William |last2=Hatfield |first2=Elaine |title = Human Sexual Behavior | publisher = Scott, Foresman|year = 1985|page=285| access-date = September 13, 2023 |isbn= 978-0-67315-057-8|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=WShHAAAAMAAJ&q=%E2%80%9Cmanual+stimulation%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Clabia+minora%E2%80%9D}}</ref> via up-and-down/side-to-side movements as well or tug on the folds.
-Vaginal fingering (also known as manual stimulation) may or may not end in orgasm; it also may or may not constitute the entire sexual encounter. It may be part of foreplay or part of a precursor to other sexual activities. These activities can provide sexual pleasure to a partner when penetrative intercourse is not possible or desirable.
+=== Vagina ===
-Vaginal fingering is legally and medically called "digital penetration of the vagina", and may be enjoyed with one or more fingers.
+While the vagina is not especially sensitive as a whole, its lower third (the area close to the entrance) has concentrations of [[Nerve|nerve endings]] that can provide pleasurable sensations when stimulated during sexual activity.<ref name="Weiten"/><ref name="Sex and Society"/><ref name="Greenberg2">{{cite book |vauthors = Greenberg JS, Bruess CE, Conklin SC |title = Exploring the Dimensions of Human Sexuality |publisher = [[Jones & Bartlett Publishers]] |year = 2010 |page = 126 |isbn = 978-9814516785 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=5Sy8PJZGyWUC&pg=PA126 |access-date = 9 August 2019 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053005/https://books.google.com/books?id=5Sy8PJZGyWUC&pg=PA126 |url-status = live }}</ref>
-Fingering the vagina is often used as a way to stimulate the [[G spot]]. Fingering the external tissues is more likely to lead to orgasm but orgasm is possible via stimulation of the internal parts of the vagina. Many women have cited the "come hither" approach as a significant catalyst to orgasm. This technique involves the [[index finger]], while palm facing upwards, curving in on itself whilst in the vagina, hence rubbing the outer wall.
+Fingering the vagina is often performed to stimulate an area termed the ''[[G-spot]].'' The G-spot is reportedly located roughly {{convert|5|cm|abbr=off|sp=us|spell=in}} up on the anterior wall of the vagina, forwards toward the [[navel]]. It is described as being recognized by its ridges and slightly rougher texture compared to the more cushion-like vaginal cavity walls around it. Fingering this spot, and in effect possibly stimulating the [[Skene's gland]], is commonly cited as a method that may lead to [[female ejaculation]].<ref name="Rabinerson & Horowitz">{{cite journal |vauthors = Rabinerson D, Horowitz E |title = [G-spot and female ejaculation: fiction or reality?] |language = he |journal = Harefuah |volume = 146 |issue = 2 |pages = 145–7, 163 |date = February 2007 |pmid = 17352286 }}</ref>
-Medical professionals may suggest washing the hands before contact with the vagina, to avoid spreading bacteria and causing infections.  They may suggest giving special attention to avoid the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina.{{Fact|date=June 2007}}
+Some women have cited the "come hither" approach as a significant catalyst to orgasm. This technique involves the [[middle finger]], sometimes additionally the [[Index finger|index]] or ring finger, making a [[List of gestures|hand gesture]] like "come here" with the palm facing upwards towards her pubic bone. Medical professionals suggest washing the hands before contact with the vagina, to ensure proper hygiene, especially when moving between different orifices.<ref>{{cite web |title = Pussy Fingering |url = http://www.sex-project.com/fingering.shtml |publisher = Sex Project |access-date = 19 August 2010 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170626221230/http://www.sex-project.com/fingering.shtml |archive-date = 26 June 2017 |url-status = dead }}</ref>
-==Anal fingering==
-Fingering of the anus and rectum is commonly enjoyed in preparation of further [[anal sex]].  Anal fingering can arouse the receiver, allowing them to relax their anus and prepare them for the insertion of a [[penis]] or a [[dildo]].
+=== Anus ===
-Anal fingering is an effective way of stimulating the [[prostate gland]] of males, and thus bringing the receiver to orgasm. Anal fingering can also stimulate the G-spot in women, through the wall separating the rectum. Anal fingering is commonly enjoyed by both same sex and heterosexual couples.
+[[File:Anal fingering (solo).png|thumb|A woman fingering her own anus]]
-This act can sometimes stimulate a bowel movement, so it should be enjoyed cautiously but frequently. Those receiving (and enjoying) anal stimulation are advised to administer enemas on themselves to clean out their insides before enjoying an anal fingering.{{Fact|date=January 2008}}
+[[File:Anal fingering (partnered).jpg|thumb|A man anally fingering another man]]
+Anal fingering may be pleasurable because of the large number of [[nerve endings]] in the [[Human anus|anal area]], and because of the added stimulation gained from stretching the [[sphincter ani externus muscle|anal sphincter muscles]] while inserting the finger. A [[personal lubricant]] is advisable to both increase the pleasurable sensation and aid insertion.<ref name=“Pauli”>{{cite book|last=Pauli |first=Michelle | title = Press Here! Kama Sutra for Beginners: A Couples Guide to Sexual Fulfilment | publisher =Fair Winds Press|year = 2021|pages=48–49| access-date = September 16, 2023 |isbn= 978-0-76037-047-6|url =https://books.google.com/books?id=nS44EAAAQBAJ&dq=%E2%80%9Crectum%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Cfinger%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Csexual%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Clubricants%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Cpleasure%E2%80%9D&pg=PA48}}</ref> Some people prefer to simply stimulate the outer ring of the anus, while others will follow this by inserting one or more fingers into the [[rectum]].<ref name=“Pauli”/>
-==Safety==
-The practice is generally considered [[safe sex]] as long as a few basic precautions are followed: the hands should be clean and the nails trimmed and filed; long, sharp or jagged nails can cause cuts, injury or severe infection. If there are cuts, infections or open wounds on the fingers they should be covered with a latex or vinyl glove. [[Finger cot]]s may also be used, but they may be more likely to slip off and remain inside the receptive partner.  The hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water before eating or placing them in the mouth. If stimulating both the anus and vagina, the hands should be washed between the two or a new latex glove used for each to avoid cross-contamination.
+Fingering one's own anus is an act of [[anal masturbation]] while fingering the anus of another person is a type of [[Non-penetrative sex#Manual sex|manual]] and [[anal sex]]. Partnered anal fingering can arouse the receiver, either as an act in itself or allowing them to relax their anus and prepare them for the insertion of a penis or any other sexual instrument.
-==Law==
-Forced digital penetration of the anus or vagina is considered a form of sexual abuse in most jurisdictions, including all of the states of the United States.  If such penetration causes injury, it may also constitute a felony assault.
+Anal fingering is an effective way of stimulating the [[prostate]] in males<ref name="Prostate/Hot spot">{{cite web |title = The male hot spot — Massaging the prostate |publisher = Go Ask Alice! |date = 27 September 2002 |access-date = 21 April 2010 |url = http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/male-hot-spot-%E2%80%94-massaging-prostate |archive-date = 16 August 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150816011011/http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/male-hot-spot-%E2%80%94-massaging-prostate |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="Rosenthal">{{cite book |first1 = Martha |last1 = Rosenthal |title = Human Sexuality: From Cells to Society |publisher = [[Cengage Learning]] |year = 2012 |pages = 133–135 |access-date = 17 September 2012 |isbn = 978-0618755714 |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=d58z5hgQ2gsC&pg=PT153 |archive-date = 26 February 2023 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230226053054/https://books.google.com/books?id=d58z5hgQ2gsC&pg=PT153 |url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="Answer">{{cite book |title = The Orgasm Answer Guide |isbn = 978-0-8018-9396-4 |publisher = JHU Press |year = 2009 |pages = [https://archive.org/details/orgasmanswerguid00komi/page/108 108]–109 |access-date = 6 November 2011 |url = https://archive.org/details/orgasmanswerguid00komi |url-access = registration |author1-link = Barry Komisaruk |author2-link = Beverly Whipple |author3-link = Sara Nasserzadeh |first1 = Barry R. |last1 = Komisaruk |first2 = Beverly |last2 = Whipple |first3 = Sara |last3 = Nasserzadeh |first4 = Carlos |last4 = Beyer-Flores }}</ref> and can also stimulate the [[perineal sponge]] in women.
-==See also==
-* [[Shocker (hand gesture)]]
-== External links ==
+== Safety and sexual assault ==
+{{Expand section|More details about the relative safety and risks of fingering|date=June 2023}}
-*[http://www.sex-project.com/fingering.shtml Tips on fingering]
+Consensual fingering is generally considered [[safe sex]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2023}}
+How digital penetration ''without'' consent is legally classified depends on the jurisdiction. For example, penetration of the vagina or anus with a finger without consent is [[rape]] in Australia,<ref>{{cite web |url = https://theconversation.com/rape-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment-whats-the-difference-93411 |title = Rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment: what's the difference? |work = The Conversation |date = 27 March 2018 |first1 = Nicola |last1 = Henry |access-date = 22 September 2020 |archive-date = 16 September 2020 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200916043345/https://theconversation.com/rape-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment-whats-the-difference-93411 |url-status = live }}</ref> and [[:wikt:forcible rape|forcible rape]] in many United States jurisdictions.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/blog/updated-definition-rape |title = An Updated Definition of Rape |date = 6 January 2012 |work = The United States Department of Justice Archives |access-date = 22 September 2020 |archive-date = 3 December 2021 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211203195658/https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/blog/updated-definition-rape |url-status = live }}</ref>  In Scotland, the term rape is only used for penetration with a penis,<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk/help-facts/ |title = Facts about sexual violence |work = Rape Crisis Scotland |access-date = 22 September 2020 |archive-date = 28 November 2020 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201128105913/https://www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk/help-facts/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> whereas penetration with a finger can be "[[sexual assault]] by penetration".<ref>{{cite web |work = Victim Support Scotland |title = Rape and sexual assault |url = https://victimsupport.scot/information-support/crime-information/crime-types/rape-and-sexual-assault/ |access-date = 22 September 2020 |archive-date = 27 February 2021 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210227072722/https://victimsupport.scot/information-support/crime-information/crime-types/rape-and-sexual-assault/ |url-status = live }}</ref>
+[[Lesbian]] women often [[Queer manicure|clip their nails in a particular fashion]] to allow for digital penetration, leading to recognition of shorter nails on the index and middle finger as a public [[LGBT symbol]].<ref name=Dazed>Wallace, Megan. [https://www.dazeddigital.com/beauty/article/57211/1/lez-nails-is-the-queer-woman-with-short-nails-an-outdated-stereotype "Lez nails: Is the 'queer woman with short nails' an outdated stereotype?"], ''Dazed'' Beauty, 17 October 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.</ref><ref name=LA>Thompson, Martine. [https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2022-06-22/what-is-a-queer-manicure-lesbian-manicure "Cheers to the Queer Manicure"], ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'', 22 June 2022. Retrieved 27 June 2024.</ref>
-{{sex}}
+== See also ==
+{{Portal bar|Anatomy|Law|Sex}}
+{{Commons category|Fingering (sex)}}
+{{Wikiquote}}
+* [[Cunnilingus]]
+* [[Fisting]]
+* [[Human female sexuality]]
+==References==
+{{Reflist|2}}
+{{Sex}}
+{{Human sexuality|expanded}}
+{{DEFAULTSORT:Fingering (Sexual Act)}}
 [[Category:Fingers]]
 [[Category:Anal eroticism]]
+[[Category:Anal sex]]
-[[cs:Prstění]]
+[[Category:Sexual acts]]
+[[Category:Masturbation]]
-[[nl:Vingeren]]
+[[Category:Female masturbation]]
-[[ja:手マン]]
+[[Category:Vagina]]
-[[pl:Palcówka (seks)]]
-[[zh:指交]]
+[[Category:Vulva]]
+[[Category:Manual sex]]
+[[Category:Male masturbation]]

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