What Is Scissoring And How Does It Work?

Unveil the world of scissoring, learn what it is, how it works, and the countless variations you can try to intensify intimacy with your partner. Keep reading!

Published Jul 21 2023 4 min read

When discussing various sexual positions and techniques, it's impossible to ignore scissoring—a passionate and versatile position that has grown in popularity over the years. Appearing frequently in popular culture, scissoring has become an iconic symbol of sexual exploration and pleasure between vulva-owning individuals. Yet, there's often confusion surrounding what it entails and how it works. 

Scissoring involves two people positioning themselves so that their thighs intertwine and their genitals meet, allowing them to rub their bodies against each other for mutual pleasure. The name "scissoring" comes from the resemblance to a pair of scissors, where the legs articulate like moving scissor blades. While scissoring is most commonly associated with lesbian and queer women, it is undoubtedly a sexual position anyone can explore and enjoy.  

In this article, we will delve into the world of scissoring, guiding you through variations and techniques to let you and your partner embark on a tantalizing adventure of intimacy and pleasure.   

Different forms of scissoring 

One of the most appealing aspects of scissoring is the sheer variety of positions and techniques. With a little experimentation, you can find a scissoring position that feels perfect for you and your partner. Here are some examples to get started:  

  • Classic scissoring: This is the most commonly depicted form of scissoring, with both partners lying on their sides, facing each other, and intertwining their legs so their genitals meet. This position allows for eye contact, making it intimate and great for building connections.  
  • Reverse scissoring: In this variation, one partner lies on their back while the other straddles them in a reverse position, with their legs resting on their partner's thighs. This position offers increased clitoral stimulation and allows for thrilling visuals from both partners' perspectives.  
  • Side-by-side scissoring: Partners lie on their sides, facing the same direction with one partner's top leg draped over the other's hip. This creates a more relaxed position with less leg strain and allows for gentle grinding.  
  • Sitting scissoring: One partner straddles the other's thigh in a seated position, creating an intimate face-to-face experience. This variation allows for more control over the pressure and rhythm and may be ideal for those new to scissoring.  

Tips to make scissoring work for you and your partner 

Now that you're familiar with some scissoring variations, here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience:  

  • Find the right angle: Experiment with different angles and leg positions to find the most pleasurable contact for both partners. Don't be afraid to communicate with your partner about what feels best.  
  • Maintain rhythm: Work together to establish a comfortable rhythm once you've found the ideal position. The key is to move in sync, so communication is crucial to find the perfect pace.  
  • Use lubricant: Applying a quality lubricant to your genitals can help reduce friction and make scissoring more comfortable and enjoyable.  
  • Cushion for comfort: Placing a pillow or cushion under your hips can help provide additional support and comfort, making it easier to maintain your position for extended periods.  

Scissoring myths and misconceptions  

To fully appreciate the versatility and intimacy of scissoring, it's essential to address and debunk several myths and misconceptions surrounding this sexual position:  

  • Scissoring is exclusively for lesbian and queer women: While scissoring is often associated with same-sex female partnerships, it can be an enjoyable and exciting addition to any intimate relationship, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.  
  • Scissoring is only shown in adult films: Though scissoring has gained a lot of exposure in adult films, it's essential to recognize that real-life scissoring can be a deeply pleasurable and intimate experience that extends beyond entertainment.  
  • Scissoring always requires flexibility: While some scissoring positions might require additional flexibility, numerous variations cater to different levels of flexibility and comfort, meaning that scissoring can be adapted to suit your body and preferences.  

The Benefits of Scissoring  

Scissoring offers unique benefits that make it an appealing and satisfying choice for sexual exploration:  

  • Increased skin-on-skin contact: The close contact in scissoring allows for a higher degree of physical connection between partners.  
  • Direct clitoral stimulation: Scissoring positions directly provide increased pressure and friction on the clitoris, which can result in a more intense and fulfilling sexual experience.  
  • Emotional connection: The face-to-face aspect of many scissoring positions encourages deep eye contact and emotional connection.  

Takeaway  

By understanding what scissoring is and how it works, you're opening the door to a world of erotic exploration and connection with your partner. As with any new sexual endeavor, communication, trust, and a desire to experiment are vital components to making your scissoring experience as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible. So, let your imagination run wild, and incorporate scissoring into your repertoire of pleasurable and passionate sexual activities.  


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