Cervix Penetration: 10 Things You Need To Know - Healthline

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HealthlineSubscribe10 Things to Know About Cervix PenetrationMedically reviewed by Suzanne Falck, M.D., FACP — Written by Annamarya Scaccia — Updated on July 3, 2023

What penetration means
Cervix penetration
What to expect
If you feel pain
If you’re bleeding
Cervix
Vaginal canal
Orgasm
Safety
Orgasm without penetration
Takeaway

It’s not possible to hit the cervix during sex, but it is possible to have a cervical orgasm.

We all know you can achieve an orgasm from clitoral or vaginal simulation. But did you know that the cervix is also a pleasure zone? That’s right. It’s possible to experience a full-body orgasm from stimulating your cervix with deep penetration.

But if you’ve never tried deep penetration before — or if it’s happened without a heads-up from your partner — you might be wondering how this can feel or if it’s really safe.

We rounded up the most pressing concerns about cervix penetration so you can get down to business worry-free.

1. What penetration is — and isn’t

The bare-bones definition of penetration is this: any object that makes its way through or into something. If you’re talking about sex, then penetration is just a fancy way of saying a penis or dildo is being inserted into a vagina or rectum.

Some people believe you can achieve cervical orgasms by penetrating the cervix, but that’s not exactly true. Cervical orgasms are achieved by stimulating the cervix — not penetration.

2. So is cervix penetration possible?

Nope, not at all. Your cervix can’t actually be penetrated. That’s because the opening of the cervix, known as the external os, is too narrow for a penis or dildo to enter. It’s usually no bigger than your thumb.

Plus, the os is filled with cervical mucus — playing around with that stuff is definitely not our idea of a good time.

The only time the cervical opening expands wide enough for anything to pass through is on the delivery table. In other words, if you’re not prepping for impending childbirth, nothing should be passing through your cervix.

3. If it isn’t possible, what am I feeling?

In short, pressure. What you’re actually feeling is the penis or dildo pushing or rubbing up against your cervix. Nothing is going in or out of it. “Cervical penetration” is a bit of a misnomer in that way.

4. Is it supposed to hurt?

It can, so it’s important to take note of what your body is feeling. It isn’t uncommon to experience pain during vaginal penetration, especially if something’s hitting your cervix.

In fact, about 60 percent of women will deal with dyspareunia — the technical term for painful sex — at some point. When this happens, you’ll feel constant, recurring pain before, during, or after sex.

Cervical pressure isn’t the only cause of dyspareunia, so talk to your gynecologist if you’re experiencing symptoms. They can help figure out what’s going on so you can get back between the sheets (pain-free!) in no time.

5. Is bleeding normal?

Not really, but it may not be caused by anything serious. If you and your partner are rushing toward the main event, the sudden friction may be an unwanted surprise for the inside of your vagina.

Foreplay isn’t just about building anticipation — it’s a great way to get your lady parts lubed up and ready to go. This can help prevent any unexpected bleeding or pain.

If you aren’t sure whether dryness is to blame, talk to your gyno. They can answer any questions you may have and make sure everything’s good to go downstairs.

6. Where is the cervix, anyway?

Your cervix starts at the base of your uterus and stretches to your vagina. Think of it like a neck made of tissue that connects the two parts.

What your gyno sees during a pelvic exam is called the ectocervix, the part of the cervix that’s near your vagina. If you have an IUD, this is where the strings typically are.

Think of the ectocervix as the gatekeeper between your vaginal canal and your cervical canal. A penis or dildo can slide into your vaginal canal, and with deep penetration it may brush up against your cervix.

It can’t go through your cervix, though. Beyond this border is the cervical canal. This is where sperm can pass through to the uterus.

7. So how long is the vaginal canal?

If you’re not aroused, it’s usually about 3 to 4 inches deep. That’s about the width of your hand if you’re going from knuckle to knuckle.

If you’re trying to do the math, don’t worry. When you’re turned on, your vaginal canal lengthens to make room for penetration.

8. Is a cervical orgasm really possible?

It’s definitely possible, but it isn’t for everyone. Many women need clitoral — not penetrative — stimulation to reach orgasm.

Although clitoral orgasms can be intense, they’re typically centered around your vagina and may only last a few seconds or so.

If you’re stimulating your cervix, you may feel the buildup of pressure spread throughout your whole body. This may lead to a full-body orgasm, with tingling sensations that come in waves from your head down to your toes.

For some women, this can last for a long time because of how deep the pleasure goes.

9. Is this safe?

Yes, it’s totally safe. But it’s important that you’re OK with the idea of deep penetration before you try to achieve a cervical orgasm. If you’re not relaxed, you’ll have a harder time feeling comfortable or feeling pleasure, which doesn’t make for great sex.

10. Can you have a cervical orgasm without penetration?

No, not really. The only way to reach your cervix is to penetrate the vagina. Whether you want to try this during a solo sesh or with a partner is up to you! Either way, you have to be comfortable with going deep.

If you want to try having a cervical orgasm, start with doggy style. It’s a great position that allows for deep penetration and can make it easier for you to feel relaxed and opened.

The bottom line

Cervix penetration isn’t possible, but having a cervical orgasm is. Before you try it out, though, you should talk with your gyno about any concerns, what you should expect, and how to stay safe during sex. Deep penetration can be intense, so it’s better to know what you’re getting into. Once you have all the information you need, go forth and explore your new pleasure zone.

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

How deep isthe average vagina, and does it elongate when something’s in it? (n.d.).http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/how-deep-average-vagina-and-does-it-elongate-when-somethings-it
Mayo ClinicStaff. (2017). Pelvic exam: Overview.http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/pelvic-exam/home/ovc-20336466
Mayo ClinicStaff. (2014). Vaginal bleeding after sex: Causes.http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-after-vaginal-sex/basics/causes/sym-20050716
OBOS anatomy& menstruation contributors. (2014). Self-exam: The cervix close-up.http://www.ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/the-cervix-close-up/
Possible to penetrate the cervix during sex?(n.d.).http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/possible-penetrate-cervix-during-sex
Wallen K, et al. (2011). Female sexual arousal:Genital anatomy and orgasm in intercourse. DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.12.004
Zebroff P. (n.d.). How to have a cervicalorgasm.http://thearousalproject.com/orgasm-how-tos/how-to-have-a-cervical-orgasm/

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Medically reviewed by Suzanne Falck, M.D., FACP — Written by Annamarya Scaccia — Updated on July 3, 2023

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