Many women are secretly using the wide-ranging method of masturbation known as "broadening."

Did you know that a whopping 87% of women have tried "broadening" as a way to reach orgasm? It might sound unfamiliar, but it's actually a form of masturbation where you press, move or rub your entire vulva against an external surface. Think of it as dry humping on a larger scale. According to a recent survey by sex research company OMGYES in partnership with the Kinsey Institute, approximately 20,000 women were asked about their preferred methods of achieving pleasure.

While using fingers and sex toys is a common go-to for most women, broadening offers a different kind of stimulation. It targets the deeper clitoral structures and stimulates a larger surface area of the vulva, making it just as - if not more - pleasurable than other forms of masturbation. However, despite its popularity, 80% of women prefer to keep their broadening habits to themselves, fearing judgement from others.

Psychosexual therapist Natasha Silverman explains that broadening can be done by grinding on a mattress or other flat surfaces, and it can create a more diffuse, full-body pleasure sensation. This can lead to deeper, more widespread orgasms that feel like waves rather than sharp peaks. Additionally, broadening can make it easier to achieve multiple orgasms in a row, as opposed to direct stimulation which can leave us feeling overly sensitive or completely desensitized afterwards.

Interestingly, many women discover broadening before ever engaging in sexual activity with a partner. It seems to be a natural part of their sexual exploration journey, with 75% of women discovering it during childhood or adolescence. However, it's not uncommon for women to question whether broadening is "normal" or not. Natasha reassures that it absolutely is and that many of her therapy clients bring it up in session.

There are various ways to practice broadening, such as grinding on flat surfaces like mattresses or floors, or softer surfaces with a firmer center like pillows or rolled up blankets. Some women even enjoy grinding on harder objects like table edges or bed posts. Natasha also suggests trying different movements, positions, and fabrics to enhance the experience. And don't forget to use your hands to stimulate other erogenous zones while broadening.

But just because broadening is popular doesn't mean it's for everyone. As with any form of self-pleasure, it's important to tune into your body and explore what feels right for you. Some may find it to be their preferred method of pleasure, while others may not enjoy the sensation. The key is to embrace what feels good for you and not worry about what others may think. After all, pleasure is personal and unique to each individual. So go ahead and broaden your horizons!

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