Edging (sexual practice)

Edging, sometimes also referred to as gooning or surfing, is a sexual technique whereby an orgasm is controlled (that is, delayed or prevented). It is practiced alone or with a partner and involves the maintenance of a high level of sexual arousal for an extended period without reaching climax. Orgasm control involves either sex partner being in control of the other partner's orgasm, or a person delaying their own orgasm during sexual activity with a partner or through masturbation. Any method of sexual stimulation can be used to experience controlled orgasm.

When the controlled orgasm is achieved, the physical sensations are greater as compared to conventional orgasm. Orgasm control has also been referred to as "slow masturbation" and "extended massive orgasm".

The term should not be confused with edgeplay, premature ejaculation, retrograde ejaculation, or the inability to orgasm. Edgeplay is a sexual practice distinct from edging; the other terms all describe involuntary medical conditions.

In partnered sex
During intercourse or other forms of sexual stimulation with a partner, one person stimulates the other(s) and reduces the level of stimulation when approaching orgasm. Erotic sexual denial occurs when the partner who is in control of the other partner's orgasm prolongs the orgasm to allow for an increased level of sexual tension. When a partner eventually provides enough stimulation to achieve an orgasm, it may be stronger than usual due to increased tension and arousal that builds up during the extended stimulation. An example of the use of orgasm control in partnered sex can be seen in BDSM; the partner whose orgasm is being controlled (sometimes referred to as the submissive partner) can be tied up. (the activity is sometimes called tie and tease; if orgasm is denied, it is then known as tease and denial).

In masturbation
When practicing alone in masturbation, orgasm control can heighten sexual pleasure. For a woman, the practitioner can enjoy direct sexual stimulation for longer periods, as well as increasing frequency and intensity. For a man, the speed of masturbation may vary to navigate right to the edge of ejaculation. With orgasm control, a male can experience a more intense orgasm, as well as a larger volume of semen expelled during his ejaculation. One technique, commonly referred to as 'edging', involves masturbating up until the moment before reaching the plateau phase just before orgasm occurs, and then stopping suddenly before experiencing a climax. Repeating this technique many times during a single masturbation session may result in a stronger, more intense orgasm.