All about the clitoris, stimulation, and the menstrual cycle

Can the clitoris get numb from using a vibrator too much?

Most people don’t permanently numb their clitoris with vibrators. What usually happens is temporary desensitization: after very strong or long vibration, the nerves need a break, so things feel a bit muted for a while. That’s your body saying, please chill. To avoid this, rotate intensity levels, mix in hands or gentler toys, and give yourself rest days if you notice orgasms getting harder or sensations feeling dull. If you feel persistent numbness, burning, or pain that lasts days or weeks, especially after an injury, new medication, or hormonal change, talk to a provider to rule out nerve issues, infections, or hormonal causes. And no, you don’t need to earn pleasure by suffering through weaker orgasms; you just need to work *with* your body, not against it.

Does the clitoris change during the menstrual cycle?

Yes, but mostly in how it feels, not in some dramatic visible way. During your follicular and ovulatory phases, rising estrogen and a small testosterone bump increase blood flow to your genitals, which can make the clit feel fuller, more responsive, and easier to orgasm with. Lubrication is usually better too, so stimulation feels smoother. In the luteal phase and right before your period, progesterone and hormone withdrawal can mean mood swings, tenderness, and more dryness; your clit might feel extra sensitive or less interested in intense touch. During your period, cramps and low energy can make you want gentler, slower stimulation — or none at all. If your experience feels wildly off from this and you also have irregular, super painful, or very heavy periods, that’s a solid reason to get checked out.

Can you damage your clitoris from rough sex or masturbation?

You can irritate it, but serious permanent damage from consensual solo or partnered stimulation is rare. The most common issues are friction burns, micro-tears, or lingering soreness from too much pressure, speed, or dry rubbing. If something hurts in the moment, burns afterward, or makes you dread being touched, that’s your body saying the technique or intensity is off. Always use lube, especially when you’re less naturally wet (late luteal, on your period, postpartum, on hormonal birth control, or dehydrated). If you notice persistent pain, visible skin changes, swelling, or sensitivity that doesn’t improve with rest and gentler touch, see a clinician. Conditions like infections, skin disorders, or nerve issues need actual treatment, not more powering through. You deserve pleasure that doesn’t hurt.

Why does my clitoris itch or burn after sex?

Common reasons: friction without enough lube, sensitivity to condoms or lube ingredients, yeast or bacterial infections, or tiny skin tears from rough contact. Hormones can make this worse; in low-estrogen situations (late luteal, early menstrual phase, some birth control, postpartum), your vulvar tissue can be drier and more fragile, so the same roughness that felt fine last month now stings. If you notice clitoral or vulvar burning plus unusual discharge, strong odor, or intense itching, get tested for infections. Switch to unscented, gentle products and try different condoms or lubes if you suspect irritation. If burning is ongoing or touch feels painful rather than pleasurable, push for answers — vulvar pain conditions are real and often dismissed. You’re not supposed to just live with it.If you’re sitting there wondering whether your specific combo of symptoms, cycle chaos, and clitoral drama is normal, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Bring your questions, patterns, and screenshots to Gush and get into it with someone who actually takes your body seriously.