5 Things to Know About Edging (A Popular Masturbation Technique)

When it comes to masturbation, it’s really easy to fall into a bit of masturbation rut. I’m totally guilty of this – I know what works, I know I can get through it incredibly quickly, so often I end up going for it. But while it can be effective, it’s also a bit superficial – and it tends to ruin all the joy and sense of occasion. Sometimes you just want to scratch an itch, but sometimes Masturbation can actually feel like a form of self-careif you do it right. That’s why, if you feel like you’re in a rut, it might be time to try engaging in more intense activities in bed, either solo or with a partner.

If you’re wondering, “What is edging?” don’t worry, you’re not alone.

1. What is the “border”?

If you’re new to edging, it’s time to get started. It’s a great masturbation technique, but it’s also fun to do with a partner. Basically, it’s about getting there all the way—almost. You get close to orgasm, then pull away. For some people, it’s a little maddening, but in a sexy way. For others, it’s just a tease. But for everyone, it can lead to stronger orgasms and a lot of pleasure.

Not sure where to start? Here’s what you need to know.

2. Delayed gratification can yield huge benefits.

Well, the idea behind Edging is very simple. By getting closer to orgasm and then delaying it, the end result will be greater. Some people already like this idea and incorporate it a lot into their sex life and masturbation. For others, it will be a new sensation. So try to get as close to the edge as possible and then pull back.

If you’ve fallen into the same old habits, this exercise alone will be a huge game changer for you. And if you’re familiar with the kind of “failed orgasms” that can happen from time to time (which I am), I usually find that these are because I’m just going through the motions, rather than really enjoying them. If you let the pressure build but delay orgasm, you’ll discover a whole new world of sensations—one that can hopefully break you out of that rut and help you enjoy the fun and playfulness of masturbation again.

3. It’s incredibly popular

You may never have tried edging, but plenty of women have, because it works. In fact, OMGYes, the amazing female masturbation site you should definitely try, surveyed many women about how they masturbate and found that it’s one of the most popular techniques. In fact, many women may be practicing edging without even knowing that’s what it’s called. You start masturbating, realize you’re not ready to finish yet, so you let the experience drag on a little longer. Or maybe you’ve been teasing your partner to the brink—these are all forms of edging.

4. It relieves pressure

It’s easy to see why people love edging. It’s an easy way to try something new in your masturbation or sex routine. It’s also an important reminder that sex isn’t just about orgasm. If you tend to get nervous about finishing, edging can be a great way to remind yourself (and maybe your partner) to slow down and play.

“Sex doesn’t have to be linear or goal-oriented,” Jessica O’Reilly, PhD, a Toronto-based sexologist and host of the podcast Sex With Dr. Jess, tells Health. “You don’t have to be aroused and let the arousal build up in a constant state of escalation.” By focusing on arousal, you’re focusing your attention on the arousal itself, rather than the outcome.

And if you’re having trouble finishing, some experts believe edging can increase your desire to orgasm, so it’s a win-win.

5. You can make it work for you

So how do you go about trying edging? Well, there are a few different ways you can do it. The basic idea is to bring yourself (or a partner) close to orgasm and pull back, but then there’s plenty of room to play. You can keep stimulating yourself after you pull back, or you can go around and get a glass of water. But then try it again—and get even closer, or even closer this time.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. You can leave an extremely long time between orgasms, or you can leave no time at all. You can pull back and forth once or twice before orgasm, or you can make it last as long as physically possible. There’s no right or wrong way to do this, which is why this is a great and easy way to completely change up your routine.

Sometimes things get a little stale. That’s just the way it is. If you feel like you’ve hit a plateau or just like finding new ways to have fun, edging is a great way to change things up. It reminds you that sex and masturbation are all about touch, play, and experimentation. And the stronger orgasms you get from delayed gratification certainly don’t hurt.

/Shutterstock