A nipple orgasm is an orgasm that’s brought by lots of breast and nipple stimulation, with little to no touch of other erogenous zones. Folks who regularly experience nipple orgasm say that the orgasm seems to radiate from their breasts.

One survey found 29% of women had experienced a nipple orgasm.

That makes it the 2nd most common orgasm after the clitoral. This isn’t so surprising as most women & vulva-owners say their nipples are the second most sensitive part of their body, after their clit.

Nipple play lights up the same region in the brain as clitoral and/or vaginal stimulation. Breasts and nipples are sensitive because they’re jam-packed with nerve endings, but the story doesn’t end there…

• Small breasts are often more sensitive than big breasts. This is because nerves transmitting sensation from the nipple is less stretched.

• Large nipples are more likely to be very sensitive because they contain more nerve endings.

• Small nipples may respond more to stimulation of the areola (the circle of skin around the actual nipple).

• Inverted nipples are just as sensitive – never ignore “innies” simply because they look different or seem to not respond in the way that outie nipples do.

There are no hard and fast rules about the kind of nipple stimulation a person likes. We’re all different and like different touches; some prefer light touches, and others can take it harder. A great way to teach what kind of touch and intensity you like is to demonstrate it on your lover’s nipples.

Generally, stroking and lightly squeezing the breasts and tweaking, licking, sucking and gentle nibbling on nipples feel good.

Nipples respond to temperature (as we all know on a cold day!), so a sip from a cold drink before licking and sucking can be very arousing.

How to have an nipple orgasm

• Time and sustained stimulation is key to a nipple orgasm.

• Stroking breasts in circular, swirling motions and tweaking and pinching the nipples with fingers is great for building up to a nipple orgasm.

• Use massage oil to make moves super sensual.

• Try a suction vibrator on nipples.

• Oral stimulation: Light licks and nibbles to start off with, then build up to constant, firm sucking.

• As arousal builds, leave the most intense stimulation until the end. 

Even if all this play doesn’t result in an orgasm, it'll still have benefits beyond simply feeling good. The primary job of (female) breasts is to feed a new baby, which prompts the release of oxytocin – the “bonding” hormone. Incorporating lots of breast and nipple play during sex with your partner has a similar effect, making you feel closer and more connected.

Our favourite gel for enhancing nipple play is the Slow Sex Nipple roll-on balm. Simply roll around the areolas and let the minty freshness tease your raspberry ripples...