Where the elusive G-spot is and how to find yours, according to sex experts

• The G-spot is around the vagina's front wall about 2 inches in, but it varies for each person.
• It's not an anatomical structure but rather an erogenous zone that may produce an intense orgasm.
• Sex positions like missionary, doggy style, and cowgirl allow for direct G-spot stimulation.

Orgasms are perhaps one of the greatest sensations a person can experience, so it's no wonder there's so much talk about all the different ways that humans can get off - including the elusive G-spot orgasm. The G-spot is thought to be an erogenous zone inside the vagina, and stimulating it is said to bring great pleasure and intense orgasms.

Here's everything you need to know about the G-spot and how to stimulate it.

What is the G-spot?

The G-spot is not an anatomical structure, but rather an erogenous zone that may provide intense pleasure for some - but not all - people with vaginas, Rachel Needle, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and codirector of Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, said.

The term was coined in the '80s and named after Dr. Ernst Gräfenberg, who first theorized about its existence. The "G" stands for Gräfenberg's last name.

The G-spot is believed to be about 2 inches inside the vagina on the anterior (meaning front) wall, said Kate Balestrieri, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist, certified sex therapist, and the founder of Modern Intimacy.

But the exact location of the G-spot varies from person to person. Your G-spot might be a little to the left or right, and it could be closer to the vaginal opening or deeper, Balestrieri said.

It is believed that G-spot stimulation is stimulation of the internal shafts of the clitoris, Needle said. This is because the clitoris isn't just the small pea-sized external part of the anatomy - that's just the tip of the iceberg. There are internal roots of the clitoris on either side that may extend up to 4 inches downward, Balestrieri said.

But you shouldn't get hung up on needing to find the G-spot or having a G-spot orgasm. Needle suggested that instead of searching for the specific spot, you should find all the different areas and types of stimulation that work for you.

Furthermore, not everybody experiences pleasure from G-spot stimulation.

"Not everyone is wired for pleasure in this area of the body. If you don't feel pleasure where the G-spot is thought to be, it's OK. There are many other ways to experience sexual bliss and orgasm, including clitoral stimulation, nipple and anal play, to name a few," Balestrieri said.

Important: You might also experience the feeling of needing to urinate when your G-spot is being stimulated. This is normal, Balestrieri said, and it happens because you're putting some pressure on the urethra. But if you experience pain, this is a cause for concern. It could just mean that there's inadequate lubrication, but it could also be a sign of a yeast infection or STI.

How to locate the G-spot

It's beneficial to find the G-spot yourself before having a partner try to find it.

"I recommend exploring your vulva and vagina to see what feels good and what is most arousing so that you can share that with a partner. Find your own erogenous zone and then show your partner(s) how to find it and how to stimulate it," Needle said.

If you want to locate your G-spot yourself, Balestrieri recommends following these steps:

1. Ensure you're lubricated, either from self-stimulation or lube.
2. Gently insert one or two fingers into your vagina, with your fingers facing the top wall of your vagina, right behind the belly.
3. Use your fingers to stroke the area about 2 inches in with a "come-here" motion.
4. Take your time exploring the area and the sensations you feel as you stroke the area.
5. Notice if you feel an area of tissue about the size of a quarter that feels a little harder or denser than the surrounding area.

"If you can't find your G-spot, please don't worry. It does not mean anything about who you are or the quality of sex life you are destined to have. There are so many ways to enjoy sexual intimacy and pleasure, and the G-spot is just one more to add to the list," Balestrieri said.

Best sex positions to stimulate the G-spot

Not all sex positions are created equally when it comes to stimulating the G-spot. Balestrieri recommended trying these three positions to hit the G-spot just right.

1. Missionary: This standard position is a great option for G-spot stimulation, especially if you place a pillow or wedge under your hips to elevate your pelvis and give your partner a better angle.

"If you keep your legs closed, the closed missionary position can create more internal containment, which can add to a feeling of pressure and accessibility for more shallow but just-the-right-depth vaginal and G-spot stimulation," Balestrieri said.

2. Doggy style: This position is a tried-and-true way to hit the G-spot, Balestrieri said. Your partner will be stroking the G-spot with every thrust. It's also easy to change up your height and angle of access while in the position, such as switching from being on your hands and knees to laying down more flat on your belly.

"Changing it up gives you and your partner ample ways to learn about your body and where your G-spot is most accessible and sensitive," Balestrieri said.

3. Cowgirl: If the partner with the G-spot wants to take the reins, cowgirl is the best position. When they are in control and on top, they can control the speed, depth, and angle, ensuring the G-spot is properly found and stimulated, Balestrieri said.

Insider's takeaway

The G-spot is not its own distinct anatomical structure, rather it's an erogenous zone that can result in pleasure and orgasm for many but not all people with vaginas.

If you want, take the time to explore your body and find your G-spot and then explore with a partner as well. But remember that a G-spot orgasm is not the be-all and end-all.

A good orgasm is a good orgasm, no matter the source.