Dr. Alverston Bailey, Contributor

Erogenous zones are parts of the body that when stimulated, elicit sexual arousal. Precisely which body parts are sources of sexual arousal is a very individual experience. This week, I will give you a guided tour through her hot spots.

The C-spot - The clitoris

The clitoris is a very sensitive sexual organ. It contains over 8,000 nerve endings and is the prime hot spot for women because up to 75 per cent of women need direct clitoral stimulation to have an orgasm. This structure is very sensitive to touch, and stimulation of the clitoris can cause an intense clitoral orgasm.

The G-spot

The Grafenburg or G-spot is a cluster of erectile tissue surrounding the urethra which becomes engorged with blood during sexual excitement. In some women, if this area is stimulated, they will experience an intense and fulfilling vaginal orgasm.

The A-spot

The anterior fornix erogenous zone or A-spot is the area on the front wall of the vagina midway between the cervix and the G-spot. It plays a role in vaginal lubrication and if stimulated can alleviate vaginal dryness.

The U-spot

The U-spot refers to the urethral opening, which in some women is very sensitive and can be a source of pleasure.

The P-spot

The prineum (P-spot) is the soft tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus and is composed of spongy erectile tissue. it is referred to as Hui-Yin in - gate of life and death - acupressure. When stimulated, it increases female sexual desire.

The X-spot

The X-spot refers to the cervix. it is very sensitive to pressure and when stimulated can induce a cervical orgasm.

The M-spot

The M-spot lies just below the mouth of the uterus and when stimulated can be quite gratifying.

Other hot spots

Many parts of the female body not involved in reproduction are sensitive to sexual touch. Caressing and massaging of these areas can enhance sensual pleasure or they can be invitations to further sexual activity. These hot spots can significantly enhance your sexual experience, but you must take time out to explore them and only through active communication can you determine if your partner finds them stimulating. These spots are:

The mouth

The mouth, including the lips and tongue. For most people, this is an area of high erotic potential. Kissing is one act that uses the sensitivity of this region in a sexually stimulating way.

The breasts

These are called the 'bells of love' by Chinese sexologists. They have many pleasure-receptive nerve endings that send sensations to the brain in the same way as the genitals do.

The nipples

The nipples have love points called centres of the breasts, which arouse sexual energy when stimulated. Another sex point is called the 'heavenly pond'. This is a thumb width out from each nipple, they increase sexual intimacy and help to express love and affection when touched, caressed and kissed. Some women can reach orgasm through breast stimulation alone.

The neck

Sensual neck play has been shown to facilitate arousal in women.

The scalp

Massaging the scalp helps women to relax due to the release of oxytocin which produce a feeling of well-being and enhances intimacy.

The ears

Many women enjoy having their ears tickled or kissed.

Other erogenous zones

These are the eyelids, the shoulders, the nose, the abdomen, the shin and calves, the hands and feet and the buttocks, which are sometimes a target for spanking and stroking, an activity which is erotically appealing to some women.

Deliberately exploring yourself and your partner is the first step in discovering which body parts are sexually responsive and the types of stimulation that feel best. Varying the pressure of touching and stroking the body from head to toe with different materials, such as a silk scarf, a soft brush, or a feather, may help to identify previously undiscovered erogenous zones.

I trust as you launch forth on this journey of discovery it will be for you and your partner a most stimulating experience.

Dr. Alverston Bailey is a medical doctor and immediate past president of the Medical Association of Jamaica. Send comments and questions to: editor@gleanerjm.com or Fax:922-6223.