What is Syntribation? Hands-Free Masturbation Using Your Thighs

You are here with us on My Sex Toy Guide, so you know that we are fans of sex toys and we assume that you are too. But everyone likes a little variety sometimes! We’ve written about how to masturbate without a vibrator, and here we’d like to focus on one particular technique — syntribation, which uses your thighs.

What Is Syntribation, and How Does It Work?

Syntribation is a masturbation technique for people with vulvas, and it involves crossing and squeezing your thighs. Many young girls have “accidentally” discovered that this can be very pleasurable, and now that we’re all grown up, we can put a name to it (even if we can’t always spell that name).

We’ll start with a little anatomy lesson. Approximately 90% of the clitoral structure is actually internal. Most of us are familiar with the glans clitoris and the clitoral hood, which comprise the external visible portion of the clitoris. But underneath the hood, so to speak, are the root of the clitoris, the body of the clitoris (the corpora), two legs (crura) that extend from the body and wrap around the vaginal canal, and the clitoral bulbs that lie between the crura and the vaginal wall.

So for most people with vulvas, crossing the thighs tightly puts (the good kind) of pressure on a large part of the clitoral structure, and contracting and/or rubbing the thighs together adds friction and rhythm.

Why Consider Syntribation?

Most of our regular readers are probably quite familiar with the benefits of masturbation and orgasms, but a quick recap: orgasms release endorphins, which relieve stress and improve sleep. Masturbation is safe sex. Masturbation can contribute to improved self-confidence and a positive body image. And for people who menstruate, orgasms can help relieve cramps and discomfort.

Syntribiation also has some unique advantages:

• Accessible: Syntribation is something that you can do any time, any place. It does not require equipment, batteries, or props. This is nice for people who share close living quarters or don’t have a private space to store sex toys. And on a spicier note, it’s also a way to indulge an exhibitionist side since most folks will be none the wiser if you cross your legs tightly in public.
• Inclusive: Syntribation does not require a lot of mobility, dexterity, or upper-body strength. Quite a few people who have some physical limitations are able to masturbate this way. We believe that intimacy should be inclusive, and we appreciate that this works for many different kinds of bodies.
• Budget-friendly: This is another kind of inclusivity! Syntribation does not require any investment in electronics or batteries; we mentioned above that syntribation is well-suited for people who need to be able to masturbate discreetly, and not having sex toy retailers on a shared credit card statement is another kind of discretion.
• Beginner-friendly: While it may be a little uncomfortable to think about, many young children “learn” syntribation on their own because it just feels good. And because it targets a much larger area than just the clitoral glans and hood, it’s pretty easy to find those good feelings. Additionally, while sex toys are not scary, some people may feel a little intimidated or they may not want sex toys with anatomical features.
• Hands-free. Syntribation leaves your hands free to explore the rest of your body (or your partner’s body) or your favorite adult content.

Play Time

As we explained above, syntribation is an accessible and beginner-friendly way to masturbate, but this doesn’t mean that we can’t share a few tips and tricks.

1. Make yourself comfortable. You deserve a great date! Find a comfortable spot that makes you feel relaxed and safe. Get yourself set up with your favorite tunes, soft pillows and blankets, a cold drink, or whatever else you want in your personal oasis.
2. Cross your legs. You can do this lying down, sitting up, or even standing. What’s most comfortable depends on your body shape and personal preferences, so take your time testing it out. Then squeeze your crossed legs together. You will want to press firmly, but of course you should not cause yourself any discomfort. Adjust the pressure until you start to feel sensation in your happy place.
3. Try adding movement, like rocking or grinding. This intensifies the sensation and helps you find a rhythm that works for you. You can pick up the pace as you get closer to orgasm.
4. Consider adding some props. One of the benefits of this masturbation technique is that it doesn’t require anything except your own beautiful body, but this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t play around with props if you so desire. Pressing down with a pillow or folded blanket can increase the pressure, which also increases the sensation. Soft fabric, like a silky nightgown, can also introduce new sensations.
5. Try syntribation in the bath or the shower. Water is relaxing, and being relaxed usually makes it easier to orgasm. Also, adding water reduces friction, which can help you focus on the pressure and the movement instead of just your skin.
6. If you have a partner, consider incorporating syntribation into partnered play. We mentioned above that this is a hands-free way to pleasure yourself, which means that you can use your hands to embrace or pleasure your partner.

Final Thoughts

We believe that there is no wrong way to masturbate — it’s YOUR body and you should enjoy it any way that you want! There is also no one right way to masturbate, because every body is unique (and the same body can like different things at different times and in different moods anyhow). But variety is the spice of life, and trying new techniques can be both fun and educational. You’ll get to know your body better, and even if this doesn’t make it into your regular repertoire, you’ll have one more trick in your bag.

Happy vibing!

Maggie

Maggie Hart has written about sexual well-being and sexuality in society for quite a few years now. She is active in communities that celebrate sex for older adults.

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