The Clitoris: History, Function, and Why Research Matters

A Long History of Misunderstanding & Neglect

For centuries, the clitoris was misunderstood, minimized, or even dismissed. Early anatomists often described it as small or insignificant, and some believed it served no real purpose. In 1559, Italian anatomist Realdo Colombo formally identified the clitoris, naming it from the Greek kleitoris, meaning “little hill,” and accurately describing it as a “nervous body” and the seat of pleasure.

Despite this, Colombo’s work was largely ignored. His mentor, Andreas Vesalius—one of the most influential anatomists of the time—argued that the clitoris did not exist at all. Meaningful progress stalled for centuries. In the 19th century, German anatomist Georg Ludwig Kobelt revisited the clitoris using careful dissection and early imaging techniques. He showed that it was much larger than previously thought and argued that it was the primary organ of female sexual pleasure. Still, these findings had little impact on medical or societal beliefs.

Interest in female sexuality re-emerged in the early 20th century, though sometimes in misleading ways. Sigmund Freud, for example, labeled the clitoris an “infantile organ,” suggesting that mature women transferred orgasm from the clitoris to the vagina. This incorrect idea reinforced the belief that vaginal orgasm was the “goal,” causing many women to experience unnecessary shame, confusion, and self-doubt.

Research on the clitoris has historically lagged due to sexism, stigma, and discomfort with female sexuality. It was not until 1993, with the passage of the NIH Revitalization Act, that women were legally required to be included in clinical trials for new medications. This policy was a turning point, ensuring that women’s health and sexual health research, including studies on the clitoris, finally received meaningful attention.

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