“Mindblowing results”: What is the Kivin method for oral sex?

Tilt it 90 degrees.

Not to be dramatic, but oral sex can make or break a relationship. For people with vulvas, getting head is sometimes the only way they can get where they need to go (orgasm), so if your partner’s not making it work, it can spell disaster for your sex life.

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Even if you feel like the oral sex in your life is pretty good, what if I told you there was a mysterious technique that could make your oral sex even better? A tantric-inspired strategy that’s said to deliver mind-blowing results? Whether you’re looking for ways to increase your pleasure in bed or you’re a dedicated student looking to please your partner/s, the Kivin method is a trick you’ll want to add to your arsenal.

What is the Kivin method?

The Kivin method has been floating around on internet forums since at least the early 2000s and was probably whispered about between curious parties long before that as well. The true history of the technique is murky (as is the reason behind its title) but that’s not the important part – the important part is how good it feels.

Basically, the Kivin method is a cunnilingus technique that involves the giver coming in from the side rather than the front. The slightly different angle may not seem like a radical change, but according to the testimonies of those who’ve tried it out for themselves, the results are impressive.

How to try the Kivin method

“The Kivin method is a style of oral sex given to someone with a vulva where the giver’s body is perpendicular to the person who is receiving,” says Certified Sex and Relationships Practitioner Georgia Grace. “You can imagine this as more of a T shape as opposed to, say for example, the really common way of giving oral which is someone’s lying on their back with the head between their legs or of course you could do 69 or face sitting.”

First, start by getting into position, whether that be on the bed, the floor, or wherever else you usually have sex (hot tip: probably don’t try this one in the shower). “Some people may just open their legs, but it might also be useful for the person who’s receiving to put their leg over the back of the person who’s giving just so you’re in a comfortable shape, or they might even cock up their leg just so that their partner can get in if that doesn’t feel comfortable.”

Instead of licking the vulva vertically, coming at it horizontally increases the surface area. Of course, attention should be focused on the clit, but the angle lets the giver access the labia and other areas as well, resulting in new sensations.

While the trick mainly benefits the person on the receiving end, the giver might also prefer this angle, especially if they’re in it for the long haul, says Grace. “It can feel slightly more comfortable for their body. Lying to the side means that maybe their neck and their head aren’t hunched over.”

Kick it up a notch

Once you’ve mastered the change in direction, you’re free to get a little freaky with it. “Get your hands into it. Use your fingers to massage or stimulate or penetrate,” says Grace. Another benefit of the side angle is the greater ability to target certain areas, whether that be the clit, the perineum, the anus or whatever else you’re in the mood for. There’s also an opportunity to get toys involved, whether that’s something internal such as a dildo or a butt plug, or something with vibrations. 

Like trying anything new in the bedroom, the Kivin method offers couples a chance to better understand each other’s bodies and develop even deeper intimacy. “I think the best oral sex you’ll ever give is taking time to build arousal in their body first. Regardless of the shape or position your body is in, take time to build arousal in their whole body so it feels even better by the time you bring your tongue to their clit.”

For more on the Kivin method, head here.