Scissors, also called tribbing or tribadism, is a sexual act in which two people press their genitals together and grind or rub against each other for mutual stimulation. The name "scissors" refers to one common body position in which partners interlock their legs in a shape resembling open scissor blades, allowing vulva-to-vulva contact. However, the term is used broadly to describe any configuration where genital-to-genital rubbing occurs between partners. Tribbing is most commonly associated with people with vulvas, including lesbian and bisexual women and non-binary individuals, but it can be practiced by people of various gender identities and anatomies. The act can involve direct skin-to-skin contact or contact through underwear or other fabric, which affects the type and intensity of stimulation. Friction is the primary mechanism of pleasure, and the clitoris is typically a focal point of sensation. Tribbing does not require penetration and is valued both as a primary sexual activity and as foreplay or partnered stimulation alongside other acts.
In practice, tribbing involves significant coordination between partners to find a position and angle where both people receive comfortable and pleasurable stimulation simultaneously. The classic scissors position has partners lying on their sides or backs with legs intertwined, but many couples find other configurations work better for them, such as one partner on top grinding against the other, or both partners seated facing each other. The experience is highly variable depending on anatomy, body positioning, and individual sensitivity.
The sensation is typically one of broad, rhythmic pressure and friction rather than the more localized internal stimulation associated with penetration. Many people find this especially pleasurable for clitoral stimulation. Because both partners are receiving stimulation at the same time without clear active/passive roles, tribbing often has a particularly reciprocal, connected feeling that people cite as a draw.
Common variations include dry humping (tribbing through clothing), using vibrators held between bodies, or incorporating lubricant to reduce friction and increase glide. Tempo, pressure, and angle adjustments are common mid-act. Communication, either verbal or through physical cues, is especially useful here because small shifts in position can dramatically change the experience for one or both partners.
Tribbing carries a lower risk of STI transmission compared to penetrative sex, but transmission of skin-contact infections (such as herpes or HPV) and fluid-borne infections remains possible through genital contact. Using a dental dam or thin fabric barrier reduces this risk. Communicate openly with partners about STI status and testing history before engaging. Physically, extended friction can cause skin irritation; using a water-based lubricant helps. Check in with your partner about pressure, rhythm, and comfort throughout, as the optimal angle and intensity varies significantly between individuals.
Tribbing is most commonly discussed in the context of partners with vulvas, but the broader concept of genital-to-genital rubbing without penetration is not exclusive to any anatomy. Partners with penises can engage in similar external rubbing acts, sometimes called frottage or dry humping, which share the same basic mechanic of friction-based stimulation.
Yes, many people do orgasm from tribbing, particularly because the act often directly stimulates the clitoris, which is the primary source of orgasm for most people with vulvas. The likelihood increases with practice, good positioning, and open communication about what feels best.
Lubricant is not strictly required but is strongly recommended, especially for extended sessions or when doing skin-to-skin contact. It reduces friction-related irritation and can make the overall experience more comfortable and enjoyable for both partners.
Tribbing (tribadism) specifically refers to vulva-to-vulva or genital grinding between partners, while frottage is a broader term for any non-penetrative rubbing of genitals against a partner's body, including through clothing. Tribbing can be considered a subset of frottage.
Tribbing is lower risk than penetrative sex for many STIs, but it is not risk-free. Skin-contact infections like herpes and HPV can be transmitted through genital contact, and fluid exchange is possible. Using barriers such as dental dams or underwear, and knowing each partner's testing status, are practical ways to reduce risk.
The leg-interlock position is one option, not a requirement. Many couples find it physically awkward or ineffective for their bodies and get better results from other configurations, such as one partner straddling the other or both partners seated facing each other. Experimenting with angles and using pillows for support often solves alignment issues.
Reviewed by Reviewed by the Jar of Kinks editorial team