This archive report was first published on 24 August 2019.
Scissoring: A Guide to Genital-On-Genital Sex ¶
Published on August 24, 2019
Scissoring is a sex position that has been around for a while, but it's still not as well-known as it deserves to be. In this article, we'll explore what scissoring is, how to do it, and some tips for making it a fun and enjoyable experience.
According to Peter Kanaris, PhD, a psychologist and sex therapist, scissoring is a great way to experience intimacy and pleasure. "Scissoring allows for a very intimate connection," he says. "The genital-to-genital contact is very arousing and can enhance not only the physical pleasure, but the emotional arousal as well."
So, how do you scissor? It's actually quite simple. You and your partner lie on your sides and intertwine your legs, like two pairs of opened scissors coming together and meeting in the middle. You'll know you're in position when your genitals touch. Then, with a little grinding and rubbing up against your partner, you'll be well on your way to O Town.
But scissoring isn't just about lying down. You can do it in any number of other positions, says Kanaris. "Scissoring can be done in any number of other positions," he explains. "It can be asynchronous, meaning you might lie still while your partner rubs up against you, or you rub up against them while they stay put."
One of the benefits of scissoring is that it allows for different muscles to be engaged. If you're not used to this position, you may find that you need to stretch a bit before getting started. But don't worry, it's worth it. "When scissoring, your glutes and thighs are going to be working overtime," warns Kanaris. "If you're not loose and limber, there's a good chance you'll cramp up."
Another benefit of scissoring is that it can be a great way to experience intimacy without penetration. "Scissoring is perfect for outercourse," says Kanaris. "Outercourse is when your partner's genitals rest against the genitalia, without penetration. Then, with gentle movement and a gradual increase in pressure, you can get it on in a whole new way."
Of course, scissoring can also involve penetration. And that's okay too. "Scissoring doesn't mean that you can't have penetrative fun," says Kanaris. "Whether it's a finger, toy, or penis you want in your vagina, there's absolutely no reason to leave it out."
Finally, remember that scissoring is whatever you want it to be. "Let scissoring be whatever it means to you," says Kanaris. "Don't get too hung up on, 'Oh, am I doing it right?' What is right is you and your partner having an enjoyable experience that's fun and that's safe."
