Understanding scissoring tips techniques and what to expect

Perhaps the most well known of all lesbian sex moves, scissoring is actually suitable for all gender identities and genitals. And like all sex positions, it doesn’t work for everybody! We’ll get into it all down below, defining what scissoring is and how to approach it, especially if it’s your first time. Keep reading for tips, techniques and what to expect when it comes to lesbian scissoring.

What is scissoring exactly?

According to a 2015 Autostraddle survey, 40 percent of women who sleep with women scissor regularly. Scissoring, named after the everyday tool, is a sexual position (or practice) that involves genital-on-genital contact. In some ways, it’s a very specific kind of tribbing, which involves rubbing your genitals on different body parts. To be clear, scissoring requires rubbing genitals on genitals. With those neuron-rich, sensitive body parts touching, unlimited pleasure awaits both partners. And we say “both” partners here and not “all,” as scissoring would be quite hard to pull off with more than two people at a time. With tribbing however…the sky's the limit. 

Getting the position just right

So scissoring, sounds pretty straightforward right? Two people, two pairs of legs, genital-on-genital contact. Well…some people actually recommend doing some stretching before attempting the position, to limber up, as the open legged-position could potentially strain or pull some muscles. In any case, when it comes to lesbian scissoring, the goal is full on contact for your vulvas. It may take some attempts before you and your partner get the configuration right, and depending on how loose-limbed you’re feeling, the position may look and feel different on different days. Also, all bodies are unique and some people’s vulvas sit higher than others, so a seated or prone position may work better. Let’s get into the details.

Scissoring while sitting

A “sitting up scissor” might be preferable if your vulva is higher up on your pelvis. How does this work exactly? Both parties should be seated, facing one another. You need to interlace your legs and get as close as possible, that your vulvas can make contact. Raise and lower your bodies as needed to give and get pleasure, so that your vulvas are touching and that stimulation is happening.

Scissoring while lying down

Another option for lesbian scissoring is to have one of you lying down with one thigh up, while the other straddles their bottom leg. Again, the goal is interlaced legs (like two pairs of scissors). You may have to try various positions, so get ready for a little trial and error. Though as long as you’re both communicating, you shouldn’t go too far afield. And there won’t be any real errors, though maybe some slightly uncomfortable positions that you can correct as you go.

Using sex toys

Lesbian scissoring can be enjoyed on its own or with sex toys thrown into the mix. The right sex toy can add layers of pleasure and fun. Consider strap-ons for scissoring positions, whether for vaginal or anal penetration. You might want to check in with your partner about the angle, making sure you’re getting things just right, and without unnecessary strain. Not feeling a strap-on? There are plenty of other to sex toys to consider for this position, so don’t let yourself feel limited. Explore our many curated collections of sex toys here.

Lesbian scissoring advice to keep in mind

Like with all things related to sex, communication is key, so make sure you and your partner are in tune and be sure to communicate about what works and what doesn’t. Scissoring should be about pleasure, not discomfort. It may take some practice to get things just right. That said, here are few more pieces of advice when it comes to lesbian scissoring

Don’t shy away from lube

Sure, you want some friction but, perhaps consider some lube for a smoother ride. Choose your lube depending on what toys you may or may not be using for your scissoring session. Coconut oil is great if there’s no latex or silicone involved, but if there is, opt for a water-based lube instead.

Stay soft

We recommend a bed or soft carpet as your scissoring surface, so you don’t have to endure any carpet burn. Similarly, stubble can make things quite uncomfortable with all the vigorous rubbing…so you may want to ease up on the shaving regimen before scissoring practice. 

Stay safe

However you identify – gay, queer, lesbian, bisexual, trans – be sure you are practicing safe sex. With all that genital contact, you can get STIs from scissoring. Consider protective measures like dental dams, and don’t forget to get regular sexual health tests. Before trying scissoring or any other sexual activity, make sure you and your partner are on the same page about sexual health and safety.

Get expert guidance

It’s the 21st century and we have amazing resources at our fingertips when it comes to our sex lives. The internet, ethical porn, friends, lovers…and a very special resource in the form of the queer sex educator. There are people out there whose job it is to help other people — individuals, couples, throuples, whatever – live their best sex lives. So if you’d like some expert guidance for scissoring and beyond, search for a queer sex educator near you. Find someone you like and trust and don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

Scissoring, in a nutshell

So to recap, scissoring is a sex position used by two people in which there is genital-on-genital contact. This can be accomplished through seated or lying down postures, and may take a few tries to get just right. The idea for lesbian scissoring is full vulva contact for maximum pleasure. Sex toys like strap-ons can be a fun, pleasurable addition. And is with all kinds of sex: communication and safety are key. Be sure to communicate with your partner, sharing your needs and listening to theirs. Good sex is safe sex and that goes for scissoring.