Shallowing

Shallowing is a penetrative sex technique that involves entering the vagina with just the tip of the penis, a finger, the tongue, or a toy. This technique involves focusing on the opening and first few centimeters of the vagina. This can be highly pleasurable thanks to the concentration of nerve endings near the vaginal entrance. ### Origins of the Term The concept of “shallowing” was first formally named in a 2021 study by Indiana University School of Medicine and OMGYES, sampling 4,270 women globally, followed by a more focused survey of 3,017 U.S. women aged 18–93. Results showed that about 84% of women reported using this technique to make sex more pleasurable. ### Why People Are Into It People enjoy shallowing because the entrance of the vagina (the outer 1–2 inches) has the highest concentration of nerve endings. Shallow penetration can feel more intense, tingly, or electric, especially for those who don’t enjoy or struggle with deep penetration. Because shallow penetration also tends to be slower and more deliberate, it can create greater intimacy and emotional connection. Shallowing can also be a form of playful teasing that builds anticipation.