This April 26, on the occasion of International Lesbian Visibility Day, the LELO brand is putting these data back at the center of the discussion. Behind this statistic, a broader reality emerges: that of a sexuality often described as more satisfying, but still largely absent from dominant discourses.
A sexuality that is still taboo
The figure disturbs, intrigues, and yet it has been established for years in scientific studies. 86% of lesbian women reach orgasm during sex, compared to 65% of heterosexual women. Twenty-one points of difference, confirmed by several international researches, including those of the Kinsey Institute, and which continue to surprise by their consistency.
Long invisible or reduced to clichés, lesbian sexuality is now back at the center of discussions, supported by solid data and concrete testimonies which challenge preconceived ideas about female pleasure, communication within couples and the still marginal place given to these realities in dominant discourses.
However, a persistent paradox surrounds this reality. Sex between women remains one of the most searched categories on Pornhub, while being largely absent from medical, media and educational discourse. In these spaces, lesbian sexuality remains marginal, rarely studied in depth, and almost never included in discussions of the orgasmic gap between men and women.
Why lesbians reach orgasm more often
The data accumulated over more than a decade are converging. A large-scale study conducted by the Kinsey Institute, based on more than 50,000 participants, clearly establishes this gap between women according to their sexual orientation. Researchers observe that intercourse that includes intense kissing, manual stimulation and oral sex significantly increases the chances of reaching orgasm.
In this context, lesbian practices appear to be particularly aligned with these factors. Cunnilingus, clitoral stimulation, touch and reciprocity take center stage. Elements which contrast with heterosexual sexuality still largely structured around penetration.
A survey conducted by Censuswide by LELO among 6,047 lesbian women aged 18 to 40, in six countries including France, confirms this trend. 85% of respondents say they have orgasms regularly, including 19% every time they have sex and 39% most of the time. Results which are part of the continuity of scientific studies, while providing more concrete insight into practices.
What the survey reveals about lesbian pleasure
Beyond the figures, the study sheds light on the precise mechanisms of pleasure. Cunnilingus tops the most satisfying practices (19%), followed by touch and kisses (18%), then oral sex, mutual masturbation and the use of sex toys (17%). Indeed, objects of pleasure also occupy an important place. 59% of respondents use sex toys, with a preference for vibrators (43%) and clitoral stimulators (40%). 34% say they use dual devices, designed for shared use.
But the main thing is happening elsewhere. Three factors dominate almost equally:
- Touch and physical sensations (25%);
- Emotional connection (24.9%);
- The feeling of security (24%).
Pleasure is not based solely on gestures, but on a relational climate. Communication appears to be a determining lever. 80% of women surveyed say they talk openly about their desires with their partner. A fluidity which seems directly linked to the higher frequency of orgasms.
BOOMERANG™, a product born from data
It is precisely on this basis that LELO designed BOOMERANG™, a double-sided vibrator intended to stimulate both partners simultaneously. Featuring two independent motors, it offers 8 vibration modes and 16 intensity levels, with additional options accessible via app. The product is part of a broader logic: responding to an already existing demand, identified by data. It is not only aimed at female couples, but at anyone wishing to explore a more interactive and shared sexuality.
Despite this progress, obstacles persist. 33% of the women interviewed mentioned the judgment or incomprehension of health professionals. 31% mention disagreements over sexual expectations, and 30% still talk about shame or stigma.
Received ideas also continue to circulate. The idea that lesbian sex requires a male role, that it relies on penetration or that it would be less satisfying remains present. Yet the numbers tell another story, more precise, and now difficult to ignore.