Guide to Erogenous Zones: A New Way to Connect With Your Partner

Did you know that everyone (and we do mean everyone) has special spots on their body that can potentially activate that urge for spice in the bedroom? They're called erogenous zones, and while you may know some of them, you might be surprised by others—and they can be super fun to explore with your partner(s).

"Exploring these [erogenous] spots can bring a whole new twist to your love life, making things hotter and more connected," Dr. Emily May, an AASECT certified sex therapist, says. "It's like finding hidden gems in your partner's body that can surprise and delight both of you."

But it's not enough to know they exist. You've got to know: How can an erogenous zone impact your relationship? What is an erogenous zone? We've recruited the help of experts—Dr. May, plus Kiana Reeves, a somatic sex educator and Foria's chief education officer—to give you the ultimate guide on the truly amazing erogenous zones, below.

What Are Erogenous Zones?

Simply put, according to Dr. May, an erogenous zone is a body part that can trigger sexual arousal when it is touched or stimulated. But as you might imagine, there isn't just one, and like we said earlier, some could surprise you.

"There are many erogenous zones, located all over the body, and they can be the key to

unlocking better foreplay, sex and orgasms," Reeves explains to us, "For that reason, stimulation of these areas can be a way to seriously level up both solo and partnered pleasure."

These zones are loaded with nerve endings, making them super sensitive and perfect for sparking excitement and pleasure—and if you're into tantric sex, you'd definitely be into these. So, why explore them? Well, because it has the potential to add a whole new level of fun and connection in your sex life, and also keep things fresh (and deeply intimate.)

10 Erogenous Zones to Explore

1. Scalp

First up, the scalp. This might surprise you, but yes, this is one to write down.

"Believe it or not, your head can be a major turn-on spot," Dr. May says, "Try giving your partner a gentle scalp massage or even some playful hair tugging. It can create a tingly, relaxed feeling that sets the stage for more intense arousal. Run your fingers through their hair, massage their scalp, or give a little tug and watch them melt."

2. Lower Belly

Another lesser-known erogenous zone, Reeves says that this one can be great to explore for both men and women, and folks of all genders.

"The area just below the belly button and above the pubic mound is an excellent spot for gentle kissing," she explains, "Firm pressing with a cupped hand as you perform oral sex, or a smooth caress during foreplay, building further anticipation for what's to come."

3. Inner Arms

Next up, we've got the inner arms. They are actually a goldmine of sensitivity. According to Dr. May, the skin here is super soft, and also packed with nerve endings. She recommends playing around with light, feathery touches or soft kisses along the inner arm can create a surprising and delightful sensation. You could even stroke, kiss, or brush this area lightly and see how your partner reacts.

4. Lower Back

Moving down, the lower back is another hotspot. Even when you're just going in for a hug. "Massaging, rubbing, or even lightly scratching this area can send shivers down your partner's spine," Dr. May explains, "Spend some time exploring with your hands, giving a soothing massage or gentle caresses to unlock this sweet spot."

5. Nape of the Neck

"This erogenous zone is one that I think most people find pleasurable in ways that are often hard to describe," Reeves tells us, "I recommend exploring planting a few gentle kisses along

the neck while you're making out, softly touching the back of the neck to pull someone closer to

you, or incorporating soft rubs to this area during your next massage. I promise your partner will thank you."

6. Back of the Knees

Ok, ok. This one might be really surprising. You might wonder: how can the back of the knees be an Erogenous zone? Surprisingly, it is one.

"Don't overlook the back of the knees. It's an often-ignored but incredibly sensitive area," Dr. May says, "Slow, soft touches or kisses here can drive your partner wild. Use your fingers, lips, or even an ice cube to explore this zone and amp up the excitement."

7. Earlobe

You may not think the definition of erogenous zones include the earlobe, but think again. The earlobe is actually a region that is less focused on, but can be mind-blowing to explore, when you realize how many nerve endings are located here (it's in the tens of thousands!)

According to Reeves, she recommends trying out play here with soft tugs, gentle kisses, or even a warm breath. For those who enjoy heightened sensitivity to this area, she adds that it can be a nice way to ease into foreplay or communicate your desire for your partner.

8. Feet

Remember: we don't kink-shame here. We know that some folks are already into feet, but even if you're not particularly attracted to them, they can still act as one of the top erogenous zones. This is because they're packed with pleasure points that can be incredibly arousing (and even relaxing.) A good foot massage focusing on the arch, heel and toes can be both relaxing and a huge turn-on. Use your hands, Dr. May adds, or a feather to tease and please these spots.

9. A-Spot

If you're passed foreplay, but still want to explore another (more intimate) erogenous zone with a vulva-having partner, try out the A-spot: this area inside the vagina (also known as the Anterior Fornix Erogenous zone) located against the front of the cervix, just above the bladder. This position is a fun one.

"It can be harder to reach, but with a gently-curved glass wand, you can get there; stimulating this area via penetration can cause an intense pleasure sensation and eventually, an orgasm," Reeves explains, "When aiming for this area, start slow and gentle, and if any discomfort arises, take a break. As always, make sure to use a high-quality lube, especially if you're exploring deeper penetration."

10. Armpits

Last, but certainly not least, we have the armpits. This slightly unusual, surprising erogenous zone isn't a place never meant to be touched, but instead, a place that's packed with a ton of pleasure potential. After all, they aren't probably touched a lot, making them super sensitive. But if you're ticklish, in an overwhelming way, this may not be the one for you.