Have you ever tried sideways cunnilingus? Definitely not a brand new sex idea, but recently the Kivin Method has gained some attention, and anything that draws attention to helping women and people with vaginas reach more intense orgasms more easily is a good thing. 

No one knows exactly where the Kivin Method came from, perhaps from early internet forums, but the rest in urban legend. Sexuality experts have been using the term since at least 2001, but it's very likely folks were doing sideways oral in the comfort of their homes long before there was a name for it. If Kivin is a real person, it's likely just someone who decided to speak about this common oral position and name it. While the provenance of the method is unclear, the instructions are not. The method is said to enable orgasms in under 5 minutes, and while I don't ever think sex should be goal driven, a simple position that allows for easier orgasms is definitely something to shout about.

So, how does it work? Grab your partner and check out these simple instructions... In short it is sideways oral sex where the giver lies perpendicular to the receiver with a vagina, their face at a right angle to the pussy. The receiver lies back while the giver positions themselves and it's then time to explore. You can try with legs spread, or one or both legs raised and held up, or keep your legs together. Be sure to take things slow and communicate as you go.

The giver can use their tongue in an up and down motion, like licking and ice cream. They can also place their index finger and thumb either side of the clitoris to raise it and keep it in place while they lick. Remember to communicate verbally and find what feels best. Some people have found that once the clitoris is aroused that they can feel two small bumps on either side of the clitoral hood, known as K points. If as a giver you do find them then try using your tongue over the clitoral hood between these two points. Remember that everyone is unique so don't worry if you can't feel them.

Explore different licking variations to find out what works best. As a general tip, for vulva owners generally if something feels good then keep going with that, once you are onto a good thing don't stop! Again see this as exploration for both of you as everyone is unique. If you know what works for you as a vulva owner in masturbation, you should have a pretty good idea if sideways oral might be a good thing.

If you want, and with consent, you can also apply gentle pressure to the perineum. Not everyone likes this as for some it can be uncomfortable so approach slowly and with communication. Of course you can also add a finger (or two) into the vagina or move towards the anus, depending on the preferences of the receiver.

Of course the Kivin Method is not brand new, but giving a name to this technique makes it easier to communicate what we might like with a partner. I also love the fact that this method is all about the pleasure of vulva owners, and focusses also on communication between partners. As someone who grew up with magazines and media rarely talking about women's pleasure, but teaching how to 'please your man with the perfect blowjob' I applaud any method that is all about closing that orgasm gap. And of course the perfect blowjob is still important, but some levelling of the playing field of pleasure being the right of all humans makes me very happy.

Have you tried the Kivin Method? I would love to hear about your experience if you have in the comments here or over at our JoyBear Twitter.

Stay safe. Have fun. Issy x