Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

Do other women ejaculate, or am I just weird?

Answer

This is a subject not often discussed among women. So it's understandable that you might feel isolated or even question your femininity if you are among the segment of women who expel fluid at orgasm. The portion of women who report experiencing this phenomenon at least once varies from a few to up to 40% according to the Kinsey Institute.

Scientists debate whether women have a "true" ejaculation and what role it might play in sexual functioning or adaptation for survival. They are also unclear about whether the fluid is urine or some other vaginal secretion. While the scientists are hashing it out there are women who aren't quite sure what's happening to them or how they feel about it. Be rest assured that this is normal for you and you are not alone, abnormal or masculine.

03/18/98

Dr. Al Cooper, clinical director at the San Jose Marital and Sexuality Centre (408-248-9737), runs the training program for Counseling and Psychological Services at Stanford University. Dr. Cooper is internationally known for his work in sexuality and is freqently interviewed by the media. He currently writes a column in Men's Health Magazine.

Dr. Coralie Scherer coordinates online services for the Centre and specializes in sexual trauma, women's issues, and marital therapy.